Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

Name: Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking Recipes

When looking for a quick and flavorful meal, I often turn to these Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers. They come together in just 30 minutes and are bursting with the bright, bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Grilled to perfection, they are juicy and tender on the inside while having a delightful char on the outside. We love serving them alongside a refreshing tzatziki sauce, making this dish not just easy but also highly satisfying. Perfect for dinner or entertaining guests, these skewers are sure to impress!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:34:28.632Z

One of my favorite go-to meals is these Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers. After trying several variations, I found that marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs truly elevates the flavor. The skewers are a breeze to put together and grill up quickly, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

What I've learned through countless attempts is the importance of soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling. This simple step prevents them from burning and ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, providing a juicy and flavorful bite every time.

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Zesty marinade that enhances the chicken's flavor
Quick preparation time makes weeknight cooking easy
Perfect for sharing and entertaining with friends
Adaptable with your favorite vegetables and dipping sauces

Marinade Magic

The marinade is the star in these Mediterranean Chicken Skewers. Using a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika, it not only flavors the chicken but helps tenderize it, ensuring juicy bites. Aim for a marinade time of at least 15 minutes; however, if you have time to spare, letting it sit for an hour will intensify the flavors even further. I often find this extra time allows the garlic to infuse deeper, offering an aromatic punch with every skewer.

For those looking to customize, consider swapping out the smoked paprika for regular paprika or even cayenne for a spicy kick. The balance of acidity from the lemon juice is vital, so if you wish to substitute it, opt for a vinegar or a different citrus juice, keeping in mind that the taste will vary.

Skewer Assembly Tips

When assembling the skewers, think about color and texture. Alternating chicken with an array of vegetables not only makes for a pleasing presentation but also ensures a variety of flavors in each bite. Red bell peppers add sweetness, while zucchini offers a mild, fresh contrast. Make sure to cut all your ingredients uniformly, about 1-inch pieces, to promote even cooking. This way, everything will be perfectly done at the same time, avoiding any chances of undercooked chicken or overcooked veggies.

If you prefer a more substantial skewer, consider adding cherry tomatoes or mushrooms, or using other proteins like shrimp or tofu. Just be aware that different ingredients will require slight adjustments in grilling time; for instance, shrimp cook much quicker than chicken, needing only 2-3 minutes per side.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful Mediterranean flavor.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Make sure to prepare everything before starting the skewering process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for delicious chicken skewers.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and zucchini onto the soaked skewers, alternating between ingredients for a colorful presentation.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with tzatziki sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy these skewers hot off the grill for maximum flavor!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh herbs when available. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers shine when paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. The cool yogurt, cucumber, and dill dressing not only complements the warm, smoky flavors of the skewers but also balances the dish’s richness. For a fun twist, you might try serving them in a pita wrap, loading up with the tzatziki and some fresh greens for a perfect handheld meal that's both satisfying and portable.

If you're looking to impress at gatherings, consider serving the skewers on a large platter with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and a variety of dipping sauces. You can easily elevate the experience with a vibrant side salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette that highlights the Mediterranean theme, making your spread visually appealing and appetizing.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their flavor and texture, I recommend reheating them on a grill or in an air fryer, rather than a microwave, to retain that nice char. Preheat your grill or air fryer to medium heat and reheat the skewers for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

For longer storage, these skewers can be frozen. I suggest freezing them before grilling, placing the marinated skewers in a zip-top bag with as much air removed as possible. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with grilling. This also allows for easy meal prep!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or even shrimp for different variations.

→ How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 15 minutes is recommended, but marinating for a few hours will intensify the flavor even more.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can bake these skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

They pair well with a light salad, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce for dipping.