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Delicious Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs

grilled Mediterranean chicken kabobs - featured image

These grilled Mediterranean chicken kabobs are quick, easy, and perfect for summer BBQs, featuring a fresh marinade of lemon, garlic, and oregano that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 large yellow or orange bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 medium red onion, quartered and layers separated
  • Optional: Cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices for extra color and flavor
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken cubes and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 to 6 hours, or overnight for best results.
  3. While the chicken marinates, chop the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces. Prepare cherry tomatoes or zucchini if using.
  4. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning (if using wooden skewers).
  5. Thread chicken pieces and vegetables alternately onto skewers, aiming for a tight fit but not overcrowding.
  6. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  7. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs to get a nice char but avoid burning. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  8. Remove kabobs from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Serve warm with your favorite sides, optionally garnished with fresh lemon and chopped parsley or mint.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour for best flavor; overnight marinating is ideal but avoid marinating longer than overnight to prevent the lemon from ‘cooking’ the chicken. Soak wooden skewers before grilling to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Brush kabobs with leftover marinade after flipping (do not reuse raw marinade). If flare-ups occur, move kabobs to a cooler part of the grill.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken kabobs, Mediterranean chicken, summer BBQ, easy chicken recipe, lemon oregano chicken, healthy grilling