These Greek Chicken Kabobs are juicy pieces of chicken, marinated in tasty spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection. They’re colorful and full of flavor, perfect for a fun meal!
These kabobs make me feel like I’m enjoying a sunny day on a Mediterranean beach! I like to serve them with rice or a simple salad, and don’t forget the tzatziki sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for kabobs since they cook evenly. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless thighs work great too, as they’re juicier. You could even use firm tofu for a plant-based option!
Bell Peppers: I used a mix of yellow, red, and green bell peppers for a vibrant look and taste. Feel free to swap out for other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes if you prefer or if some are in season.
Olive Oil: A must for a delicious marinade! If you want to try something different, avocado oil is a great substitute since it also adds a lovely flavor and has a high smoke point for grilling.
Lemon Juice: The acidity from fresh lemon juice is important for brightening up flavors. If you’re out, vinegar (like white or apple cider) can work, but start with a smaller amount since it’s more potent.
Dried Oregano: This brings an authentic Greek taste to the kabobs. If you’re lacking oregano, thyme or basil can add nice flavor. I tend to keep extra dried herbs on hand for versatility in my cooking!
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly and Stay Juicy?
To achieve perfectly cooked kabobs, there are a few techniques to keep in mind:
- **Marinate:** Always marinate the chicken. Letting it sit for at least 30 minutes helps keep the meat tender and flavorful.
- **Cut Uniformly:** Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes—about 1 inch—so they cook at the same rate. This makes sure everything comes off the grill perfectly cooked.
- **Soak Wooden Skewers:** If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- **Rotate Frequently:** Turn the skewers every few minutes while grilling for even cooking and those sought-after grill marks.
Following these tips will make your kabobs not only tasty but also visually appealing and perfectly cooked! Enjoy your grilling experience!
How to Make Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek Chicken Kabobs recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Add another 10-12 minutes for grilling, totaling about 55-60 minutes from start to finish (including marinade time). Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will be your flavorful marinade that makes the chicken so tasty!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cut chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing them well to ensure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours to soak in all those wonderful flavors.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your kabobs will get those nice grill marks and cook evenly.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take the skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, alternating with chunks of yellow, red, and green bell peppers, and red onion for a colorful look. It’s like making a tasty rainbow on a stick!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so that the chicken cooks evenly and gets good grill marks.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps to keep the chicken juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious kabobs with a side of cool tzatziki sauce and fresh lemon wedges for added flavor. Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size as the chicken for even cooking. If using vegetables that release a lot of moisture, like zucchini, consider salting them for a few minutes to draw out some of the liquid before threading them onto the skewers.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! This allows the flavors to fully develop. Just make sure to store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to warm through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
What is the Best Way to Serve Greek Chicken Kabobs?
These kabobs are fantastic served with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a fresh Greek salad. You can make it a complete meal by serving them over rice or quinoa for a hearty option, or on a bed of greens for a lighter choice.
