The Mediterranean Chicken Kabob recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Juicy marinated chicken is skewered with colorful bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, then grilled to perfection. This dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with fresh flavors that evoke the sun-drenched coasts of Greece and the aromatic spices of North Africa. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, these kabobs are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll adore this Mediterranean Chicken Kabob recipe for its irresistible flavors and the ease with which it comes together. The marinade, infused with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of Mediterranean spices, tenderizes the chicken while providing a burst of flavor in every bite. Cooking it on skewers not only makes for a fun presentation but also allows for even cooking. Plus, it’s a healthy option that fits well into various diets, whether you’re a meat lover, a health-conscious eater, or simply someone who enjoys fresh, wholesome food.
Tips and Tricks
- Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Skewering: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers can be used straight away.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season. Cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or eggplant make great additions.
- Grilling Gears: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for perfectly cooked kabobs without sticking. You can also cook these kabobs in the oven or air fryer if grilling isn’t an option.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love to meal prep, these Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs can be made ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also assemble the kabobs and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 2 days before grilling. Cooked kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint into the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
- Different Cooking Methods: Try roasting the kabobs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or using an air fryer for a quicker cooking time.
How to Serve
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs on a large platter, arranging them artfully with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish. Accompany the kabobs with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping, and consider serving them over a bed of fluffy couscous, alongside a Greek salad, or wrapped in warm pita bread for a complete meal. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red, such as a Pinot Noir, complements the flavors of the kabobs beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving iced mint tea or sparkling water with lemon. Side dish suggestions include a refreshing tabbouleh salad or grilled vegetables. For dessert, a light baklava or yogurt with honey and nuts would make a perfect ending to your Mediterranean feast.
How to Store
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooked kabobs in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Equipment Needed
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Bowl for marinating
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs for turning kabobs
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended for perfect doneness)
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and ensure your marinade is free of honey or dairy. For a nut-free version, simply omit any nuts used as garnishes. If you need a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free grains instead of couscous, or simply enjoy as is.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant from your garden or local farmers’ market. In the fall, consider adding hearty vegetables like squash or sweet potatoes. During winter, use root vegetables or even frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs are great for kabobs as they remain moist and flavorful.
- How long do I need to marinate the chicken? A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
- What if I don’t have a grill? You can roast the kabobs in the oven or use an air fryer at the same temperature for similar results.
- Can I make this recipe without skewers? Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and veggies separately if skewers aren’t available.
How To Make mediterranean chicken kabob recipe
Mediterranean Chicken Kabob
The Mediterranean Chicken Kabob recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- While the grill is heating, prepare your vegetables by cutting them into pieces similar in size to the chicken.
- Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between chicken and veggies.
- Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 440Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 145mgSodium 205mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 54g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Kabob recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh flavors and vibrant colors in your meals. Whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a family dinner, or prepping for the week ahead, these kabobs are versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. With a few simple steps, you can create a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also transports you to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. Happy cooking!
