Ah, Greek marinated chicken kabobs! Just the thought of them takes me back to those sunny summer barbecues with friends and family. The aroma of the sizzling chicken, the vibrant colors of the veggies, and that delightful blend of herbs and spices make my mouth water every time. There’s something magical about biting into those juicy, flavorful kabobs, especially when you dip them in creamy tzatziki. Trust me, this recipe is a game changer! It’s not just about grilling chicken; it’s about creating a dish that bursts with flavor and has everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Plus, they’re super simple to whip up and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious Greek marinated chicken kabobs that will have you dreaming of summer all year round!
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
How to Prepare Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs
- First things first, let’s whip up that amazing marinade! In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk it all together until it’s well blended and looks delicious!
- Now, let’s add the chicken. Toss those cubed chicken breasts into the marinade and make sure they’re coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you can spare more time, like 3-4 hours, the flavor will be even better!
- While the chicken is soaking up all those fabulous flavors, grab some wooden skewers and soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This little step is crucial to keep them from burning on the grill.
- Next, it’s time to assemble! Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto the soaked skewers. I like to alternate between chicken and veggies for a colorful presentation.
- Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so they get that perfect char and cook evenly.
- When the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks, remove the kabobs from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices before serving. Trust me, that little wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these kabobs ready to marinate and grill in no time!
- Flavorful marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic herbs creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavors that everyone will love.
- Versatile serving options: Whether you serve them with pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or on their own with tzatziki, these kabobs are incredibly adaptable to your meal preferences.
- Healthy and gluten-free: Packed with lean protein and veggies, these kabobs are not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for any diet!
Tips for Success
Getting those Greek marinated chicken kabobs just right is all about a few key tips that make a big difference! Trust me, once you nail these, you’ll be the star of every barbecue.
- Marinating time: Don’t rush the marinade! I recommend at least an hour, but if you can let it sit for 3-4 hours (or even overnight!), the chicken will soak up so much more flavor. You’ll be amazed at how juicy and tasty it becomes!
- Grill temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This is super important for that beautiful char and to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without drying out. You want those grill marks to make an appearance!
- Skewering techniques: When threading the chicken and veggies onto the skewers, try to leave a little space between each piece. This allows for better airflow and even cooking. Plus, it looks so much more appealing on the plate!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to kabob perfection that’ll have everyone asking for your secret!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of these delicious Greek marinated chicken kabobs. Remember, these values can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use, but this gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
Enjoy these kabobs guilt-free, knowing they’re packed with protein and bursting with flavor!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making Greek marinated chicken kabobs? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my go-to answers.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They’re juicier and have a bit more flavor, which can take your kabobs to the next level. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let it sit for 3-4 hours or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more those delicious flavors will penetrate the meat, making it extra tender and flavorful!
What can I serve with kabobs?
There are so many delicious options! I love serving them with creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping, warm pita bread, or a refreshing Greek salad. You could also pair them with grilled veggies or a side of rice for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or if you want to share your own kabob adventures!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Greek marinated chicken kabobs, the sides you choose can elevate the whole meal experience! Here are my favorite pairings that just complement those flavorful kabobs perfectly.
- Tzatziki sauce: This creamy, tangy yogurt sauce is a must-have! The coolness of tzatziki balances the grilled flavors beautifully. Just dip your kabobs in, and you’ll be in flavor heaven.
- Pita bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for wrapping around the kabobs. You can even use it to scoop up any extra tzatziki or grilled veggies. It adds a lovely texture and makes for a fun, interactive meal.
- Greek salad: A fresh Greek salad filled with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese is a fantastic side. The bright, zesty flavors of the salad complement the kabobs and add a refreshing touch to your plate.
- Grilled vegetables: Don’t forget about some seasonal grilled veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions tossed in olive oil and herbs can add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Rice or quinoa: If you’re looking for something heartier, serve your kabobs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing!
With these delicious accompaniments, your Greek marinated chicken kabobs will shine even brighter, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious batch of Greek marinated chicken kabobs, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! Storing them correctly ensures you can enjoy those amazing flavors again later.
First off, let your kabobs cool down to room temperature before you tuck them away. Once they’re cool, transfer them to an airtight container. I like to separate the chicken from the veggies if I can, just to keep everything fresh. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember, the sooner you eat them, the better they’ll taste!
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven or a skillet to maintain that juicy goodness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet. Cover them with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re using a skillet, a little splash of olive oil over medium heat works wonders. Just sauté them gently until heated, turning occasionally to avoid sticking.
Oh, and a quick tip: if you want to add a little moisture back, consider drizzling a touch of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice over the kabobs while reheating. It’ll give them a nice boost and keep them from drying out. Enjoy those leftovers like they’re fresh off the grill!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear about your adventures with these Greek marinated chicken kabobs! If you try out this recipe, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. Did you add any special twists or serve them with a fun side? Your feedback means the world to me, and it helps other home cooks like you find inspiration!
Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to give it a rating! It’s always exciting to see how much you love the dishes I share. Together, we can create a community of passionate food lovers who appreciate the joy of cooking.
So, grab your skewers, fire up that grill, and let’s make some delicious memories together! Happy cooking!
Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs for Flavorful Summer Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Greek marinated chicken kabobs are grilled skewers of chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade. Coat well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill kabobs for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
- Pair with pita bread or a Greek salad.
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: greek marinated chicken kabobs
