🌿 Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers 😋😋
📝 Description:
These Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers are bursting with vibrant flavors thanks to a simple lemon-garlic-oregano marinade. Tender, juicy, and lightly charred, they’re perfect for a light summer meal, BBQ party, or meal prep. Pair with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or warm pita for a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired experience.
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes (for extra flavor and mild heat)
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
🍴 Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional paprika/chili flakes. - Marinate the Chicken:
Add chicken pieces to the marinade, toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably 2–4 hours for deeper flavor). - Prepare the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking. - Grill the Skewers:
Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 75°C). - Serve:
Remove from grill, rest for 5 minutes, and serve with sides like tzatziki, pita bread, hummus, or salad.
👨🍳 Notes & Tips:
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs stay juicier, especially when grilled. Breasts are leaner and still work great with proper marination.
- Marination Time: Longer marination = better flavor. Don’t exceed 24 hours.
- Serving Idea: Serve on a platter with lemon wedges, tzatziki, olives, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
- Oven Option: No grill? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, broiling the last 2 minutes for color.
🍽️ Servings:
Serves 4 people (approx. 2 skewers per person)
🔍 Nutritional Info (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0g
(Does not include additional sides or sauces)
💪 Health Benefits:
- High in protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety.
- Olive oil: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Garlic & oregano: Provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Low carb & gluten-free: Great for various dietary preferences.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before. Skewer them just before grilling.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: Try with Greek salad, quinoa tabbouleh, grilled veggies, or couscous.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Absolutely! Freeze in a zip-top bag with marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Q: Can I use store-bought marinade?
A: You can, but the homemade version is fresher, healthier, and more flavorful.