Description
Juicy, tender chicken skewers marinated in a rich yogurt-based blend, paired with homemade tzatziki—this recipe is the ultimate summer grilling delight. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple dinner, these grilled chicken skewers are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
1 lemon, juiced
1 lemon, cut into wedges/sliced for serving
2 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs and/or breasts, cut into 1 ¼-inch cubes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed red pepper and paprika. Stir in 2 tablespoons of hot water and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Add the yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Whisk everything together, then stir in the garlic and lemon juice.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (the longer, the better!).
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, dividing the chicken evenly across all the skewers. Discard any remaining marinade.
- Season the skewers with a little salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve the skewers with homemade tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Spicier Kick: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra heat boost.
- Different Proteins: While chicken thighs and breasts are the most common choice, you can also use turkey, lamb, or even shrimp for skewers.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs in your marinade, like oregano, thyme, or rosemary, to change the flavor profile.
- Storage: Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave the chicken, though grilling or pan-searing will help retain its juicy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
