Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Garlic Dip
These Mediterranean chicken skewers are tender, flavorful, and perfect for grilling or roasting. Marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and warm spices, the chicken develops a smoky char while staying juicy inside. Paired with a creamy garlic-yogurt dip, this dish makes a delicious main for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or a mezze-style spread.
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes (includes marinating)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (minimum, up to overnight)
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Wooden or metal skewers
For the Garlic Dip:
1 cup Greek yogurt (or labneh)
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Marinate the Chicken:
Add chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
Prepare Skewers:
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces.
Cook the Chicken:
Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a lined baking sheet and roast for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Make the Garlic Dip:
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Chill until ready to serve.
Serve:
Arrange chicken skewers on a platter, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges, and serve alongside the garlic dip.
Tips & Variations
Add Vegetables to Skewers: Thread in chunks of bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the chicken for a colorful and complete meal.
Different Cuts of Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs work just as well and stay extra juicy when grilled.
Marinade Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will do.
Cooking Alternatives: Don’t have a grill or oven? A stovetop grill pan or cast-iron skillet works great—just cook in batches for an even sear.
Garlic Dip Variations: Add chopped fresh dill or mint to the yogurt dip for a fresh twist. A drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of sumac also adds depth.
Spice Options: Swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
Serving Ideas: Serve skewers with warm pita bread, a side of couscous, tabbouleh, or a Greek salad for a full Mediterranean meal.
Make it a Party Dish: Prepare smaller skewers for appetizers or party platters.
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs are slightly fattier, which makes them extra juicy. Just cook for the same time until they reach 165°F (74°C).
Q: How do I stop the chicken from drying out?
A: Don’t overcook, and keep the grill or oven at medium-high heat. The marinade with olive oil and lemon also helps lock in moisture.
Q: Can I make the garlic dip ahead of time?
A: Definitely. It tastes even better when chilled for an hour or two. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: What if I don’t have skewers?
A: You can cook the marinated chicken pieces directly on a baking sheet or grill pan—they’ll be just as flavorful.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes. You can reduce the garlic and spices if needed to make it milder for kids.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 4 servings, including dip)
Calories: ~350
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 3 g
Sodium: ~480 mg
(Values are approximate and will vary based on serving size and ingredient brands.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Garlic Dip are flavorful, juicy, and easy to make, whether you’re grilling outdoors or roasting in the oven. The warm spice marinade pairs perfectly with the cooling yogurt-garlic dip, making this dish a great balance of savory and refreshing. Serve it as part of a mezze platter, with warm pita and salad, or enjoy it as a light but satisfying main dish. Simple, healthy, and full of Mediterranean flavor, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.