Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs with Yogurt Sauce

Get ready to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these delightful Chicken Kabobs! Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a tantalizing blend of herbs and spices, skewered with colorful veggies, and grilled to perfection. Served with a creamy yogurt sauce, this dish is a healthy and flavorful delight that’s sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (500g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Kabobs:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8-10 cherry tomatoes
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes by cutting them into 1-inch pieces.
3. Thread the Kabobs: Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken cubes, bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful and attractive presentation.
4. Grill the Kabobs: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Grill the kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender and slightly charred.
5. Make the Yogurt Sauce: While the kabobs are grilling, prepare the yogurt sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
6. Serve: Once the kabobs are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle with the yogurt sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.

Additional Tips:

• For added flavor, you can also marinate the veggies along with the chicken.
• If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Adjust the amount of spices in the marinade to your taste preference. You can add more or less depending on your desired level of flavor.
• Serve the kabobs with pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Nutritional Value:

These Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs with Yogurt Sauce are a nutritious and protein-packed dish. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the veggies offer a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The yogurt sauce adds a creamy and tangy element, plus probiotics from the Greek yogurt. Overall, this dish is a healthy and balanced meal option that’s both flavorful and satisfying.