Name: Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 4 lemons; 4-5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; 2 tablespoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts); 1 red onion, quartered into 1-inch pieces; 1 small zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch coins; 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 62 reviews

If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that bursts with Mediterranean charm, this Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe is an absolute game changer. Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano get beautifully charred alongside crisp vegetables, making every bite a celebration of fresh, bright flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a summer gathering, these kebabs deliver a perfect balance of tanginess, herbaceousness, and smoky goodness that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl on the left holds two large raw chicken pieces with smooth pale pink skin. To the right, a glass bowl contains a yellow liquid with lemon zest floating on top. In the center, a white cutting board has two whole bright yellow lemons, two lemon halves, and some peeled garlic cloves scattered around. A large knife with a black handle rests on the cutting board next to the lemons. Below the cutting board, a metal grater has bits of yellow lemon peel on it. Near the bottom left, there are two small white bowls, one with salt and the other with black pepper. A yellow lemon squeezer and a metal measuring spoon with dried herbs spill onto the white marbled surface. A small blue and white bowl on the right side contains white creamy sauce with a spoon in it. A white cloth with blue stripes is partly visible on the right edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe. Each component works harmoniously to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that transform simple chicken and veggies into a memorable meal.

Plain Greek yogurt: Acts as the creamy base of the marinade, tenderizing the chicken and adding tang.
Olive oil: Brings richness and helps everything grill up golden and juicy.
Lemons (4): Their zest and juice provide a bright, citrusy punch that livens up the marinade.
Garlic (4-5 cloves): Adds a fragrant, savory depth to balance the citrusy notes.
Dried oregano (2 tablespoons): Classic Greek herb for that authentic herbal aroma and flavor.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient, bringing out their natural tastes.
Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spice kick without overpowering the marinade.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): The main star, sliced for perfect grilling pieces.
Red onion (1, quartered): Brings sweetness and a bit of crunch when charred on the grill.
Zucchini (1 small, sliced): Adds a tender, slightly sweet vegetable component that grills beautifully.
Red bell pepper (1, seeded and cut): Offers vibrant color and juicy sweetness for balance.

How to Make Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by carefully slicing the chicken breasts lengthwise into thin strips, then cut those strips into roughly 1-inch pieces. This size ensures they will cook uniformly and remain juicy. Place the chicken pieces into a bowl or freezer bag, setting them aside for the marinade magic ahead.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

The marinade is where the magic happens! In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and olive oil. Next, zest one of the lemons right into this mix, and then juice all four lemons to add a bright, citrus-forward base. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This marinade is vibrant and bursting with traditional Greek flavors, perfectly designed to soak into the chicken and vegetables.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour half of the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re completely coated. Reserve the other half for basting. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 3 hours if you can plan ahead. This extra time lets the chicken soak up all the zesty, herby flavors, making every bite delicious and tender.

Step 4: Prep the Grill and Skewers

When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking. Now, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with chunks of red onion, zucchini slices, and red bell pepper pieces. Ending with a piece of chicken gives the kebabs a charming final touch. Repeat with remaining ingredients and discard any marinade used for soaking the chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Place your colorful kebabs over the hot grill. Baste them occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep things moist and full of flavor. Turn them frequently so each side gets perfect grill marks and the chicken cooks evenly. This step usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes; the chicken should be completely cooked through with clear juices. This grilling process seals in the marinade’s zest and creates a smoky finish that’s downright addictive.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe

A white bowl filled with raw light pink chicken pieces layered evenly on top of a creamy sauce speckled with green herbs and black pepper. The sauce surrounds and partially covers the chicken, creating a mix of smooth and chunky textures. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with metal kitchen tools and a white cloth with blue stripes resting nearby, adding subtle details to the setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your kebabs to next-level deliciousness. Freshly chopped parsley or oregano sprinkled on top adds a burst of herbal brightness, while a wedge of lemon on the side invites your guests to add an extra citrus squeeze. For a creamy contrast, a dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil is ideal and perfectly complements the grilled flavors.

Side Dishes

Greek chicken kebabs are wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Serve them alongside fluffy couscous or herbed rice to soak up any extra juices. A Greek salad with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese pairs beautifully, adding freshness and texture. For a heartier meal, warm pita bread and a simple hummus spread can turn these kebabs into an impressive Mediterranean feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve the kebabs on a large platter layered with lemon slices and fresh herbs for an inviting centerpiece. You can also turn the kebabs into wraps with grilled pita, tzatziki, and salad for a handheld delight. Another idea is to chop the grilled kebabs into bite-sized pieces and toss them over a bed of greens or grain bowls for lunch or dinner that feels both fresh and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe pieces can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken and veggies together maintains the harmony of flavors, making it easy to reheat for quick meals or snacks.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze leftovers, remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, but for the best taste and texture, try to use them within the first month. Label your container to keep track, and remember that vegetables may soften slightly after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the kebabs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them on a medium setting, but be mindful to avoid drying out the chicken by covering with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. A quick pan sauté over medium heat with a splash of olive oil can help revive grilled textures beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat, which can make the kebabs even juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients helps prevent them from burning on the grill.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight intensifies the flavors even more, though do not exceed 24 hours as the acidity from the lemon can start to break down the texture of the chicken too much.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries! You can cook the kebabs on a grill pan or under the broiler in your oven, turning them regularly to achieve nice browning on all sides.

Can I prepare these kebabs for a crowd?

Definitely. This Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe scales up beautifully. Just double or triple the ingredients and use extra skewers to feed a larger group.

Final Thoughts

Making this Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe is like inviting a little slice of the Mediterranean into your home. It’s approachable yet full of zest, making it a favorite for any occasion. I truly hope you try this recipe soon because there is nothing quite like the satisfying sizzle and aroma of these kebabs on the grill. They bring joy to the table and will surely become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.

Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need