Mediterranean Kebab Salad Recipe
Prep & Cook Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 3–4
This Mediterranean Kebab Salad combines juicy, marinated chicken kebabs with a fresh, crisp salad and creamy yogurt dressing. The chicken is spiced with classic Mediterranean flavors like oregano, garlic, and lemon, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection. Tossed with mixed greens, colorful vegetables, feta cheese, and optional extras like chickpeas or olives, this salad is a light yet satisfying meal that works perfectly for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Kebabs (Chicken)
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: ½ tsp cumin, paprika, or sumac for extra flavor
For the Salad
3 cups shredded lettuce or mixed greens
1 cucumber, diced or sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, or diced tomatoes
½ red onion, thinly sliced or diced
½ cup red cabbage, shredded
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Optional: ½ cup chickpeas, ¼ cup Kalamata or black olives, ½ cup corn
For the Dressing/Sauce
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1–2 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh dill or ½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken:
Grill: Thread chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
Skillet: Heat a little olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken cubes for 6–8 minutes, turning until golden and cooked through.
Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, red cabbage, feta, and any optional ingredients like chickpeas, olives, or corn.
Make the Dressing:
Whisk together Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, dill or oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Salad:
Top the salad with cooked chicken kebabs. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently, or serve the dressing on the side.
Serve:
Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sumac if desired. Serve immediately as a main meal or a hearty side.
Tips & Variations
Chicken Options:
Use chicken breasts for leaner kebabs or thighs for juicier, more flavorful pieces. You can also use lamb, beef, or shrimp as an alternative protein.
Marinating Time:
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Avoid marinating longer than 4 hours to prevent the lemon juice from “cooking” the chicken.
Vegetables:
Add or substitute with bell peppers, radishes, zucchini, or roasted vegetables. Seasonal vegetables work well.
Cheese Choices:
Feta is classic, but you can mix in goat cheese, halloumi, or even shaved Parmesan for variety.
Dressing Variations:
Add a teaspoon of olive oil or tahini for a richer dressing.
Swap yogurt for a light vinaigrette with lemon, olive oil, and garlic for a lighter option.
Grilling Tips:
If using skewers, soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Grill over medium-high heat for best results.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with warm pita bread, couscous, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a more filling meal.
Meal Prep Friendly:
Cook the chicken and store separately from salad and dressing. Assemble when ready to serve to keep greens crisp.
Spices:
Sumac or smoked paprika adds a smoky, tangy flavor. Red pepper flakes can add subtle heat.
Garnish:
Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint enhance flavor and presentation. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes. Replace chicken with grilled halloumi, chickpeas, or falafel.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes. Simply slice or cube leftover chicken and add to the salad.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
Store salad components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Combine just before serving to keep vegetables fresh.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken kebabs?
Yes. Cooked chicken kebabs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before adding to salad.
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
(per serving, approximate, without optional ingredients)
Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Calcium: 12% DV
Iron: 10% DV
(Values may vary depending on the type of chicken, cheese, and salad ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Kebab Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that combines spiced chicken with crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty yogurt dressing. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and easily adaptable for vegetarian or lighter versions. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad brings classic Mediterranean flavors to your table in every bite.