Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about juicy, perfectly grilled chicken skewers kissed with bold Mediterranean spices and served with a creamy, garlicky yogurt sauce. This recipe for Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is one of those simple yet show-stopping meals that feels special, whether you’re cooking on a quiet weeknight or hosting a backyard get-together.

What makes these Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs so crave-worthy? It’s all in the balance. You get the smokiness from the grill, the tang from fresh lemon juice, a hit of warmth from paprika and cardamom, and the cool contrast of the yogurt sauce. Every bite offers a pop of flavor, a tender texture, and just the right amount of zest. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make.

I first fell in love with this recipe during a summer road trip along the Mediterranean coast. Every town seemed to have its version of skewered chicken, always accompanied by some creamy, garlicky dip that stole the show. Once back home, I started testing different spice blends and yogurt sauces until I landed on this version—now a staple in our house.

Whether you’re firing up the grill or using a stovetop grill pan, this dish comes together quickly and delivers huge flavor. Plus, it’s totally customizable. You can add more veggies to the skewers, adjust the spice level to your liking, or serve it up with a variety of sides to make it a full meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs recipe checks all the boxes when it comes to flavor, texture, and simplicity. Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to keep it in your regular meal rotation:

1. Simple and Easy to Prepare: With just a bit of chopping and marinating, you can have everything prepped in under 20 minutes. The hardest part is waiting while it marinates.

2. Bursting with Mediterranean Flavor: Between the paprika, garlic, lemon, and herbs, every bite tastes like a Mediterranean vacation.

3. Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults. The flavors are bold but approachable, and you can always tone down the garlic or spices to suit picky eaters.

4. High in Protein and Low in Carbs: These kebabs are naturally low-carb and packed with lean protein, making them a great option for anyone watching their macros.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, grill it in batches, and enjoy it for days with different sides or salads.

6. Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick dinner, these kebabs fit the bill beautifully.

With their smoky charred edges and juicy centers, these chicken skewers are seriously addictive. And the garlic yogurt sauce? It’s the kind of condiment you’ll want to drizzle over everything.

Health Benefits

Not only is this Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs packed with flavor, but it also offers a range of nutritional benefits that make it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.

Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps keep you full longer, supports muscle growth, and fuels your metabolism.

Gut-Friendly Yogurt: The garlic yogurt sauce is made with plain yogurt, which is full of probiotics that can aid digestion and boost gut health.

Antioxidant-Rich Spices: Ingredients like paprika, garlic, and cardamom are known for their antioxidant properties, which help fight inflammation and protect against chronic disease.

Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in the marinade and sauce contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which support brain and heart function.

Fresh Herbs and Citrus: Lemon juice and dill not only brighten up the dish but also add a healthy dose of vitamin C and anti-inflammatory benefits.

By combining wholesome ingredients with a straightforward cooking method, this recipe is a balanced, nourishing option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (with minimum marinating)

Servings: 4–5 people

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 32g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g

Ingredients List

The Chicken Kebabs:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks

The Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

The Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt to taste
• Water to thin, if needed

Every ingredient plays a role here. The smoked paprika and cardamom bring warmth, while the lemon juice adds brightness. Yogurt and dill offer a cooling contrast that complements the spices beautifully.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, cardamom, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
• Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat thoroughly.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

2. Prepare the Skewers

• While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• After marinating, alternate threading the chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers.
• Don’t pack the pieces too tightly; leave a little space for even cooking.

3. Preheat and Grill

• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.
• Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

4. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• In a small bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and a pinch of salt.
• Stir until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little water to thin it to your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve

• Transfer the hot kebabs to a serving platter and drizzle with the garlic yogurt sauce or serve the sauce on the side.
• Garnish with extra dill or a few lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve

These Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• Over a bed of fluffy couscous or seasoned rice
• Wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh veggies
• Alongside a crisp cucumber and tomato salad
• With a scoop of hummus and olives for a mezze-style plate
• Over a leafy green salad for a light, protein-packed meal

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, here are a few ideas that pair beautifully with these kebabs:

Side Dishes:

• Roasted sweet potatoes with cumin and olive oil
• Mediterranean quinoa salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta (use halal-friendly feta)
• Grilled zucchini or eggplant
• Herbed bulgur wheat or brown rice pilaf

Drinks:

• Fresh mint lemonade
• Cucumber lime sparkling water
• Iced hibiscus tea with a splash of honey
• Yogurt-based lassi with a hint of cardamom (for a regional twist)

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce in a separate container to maintain freshness.

Freezing:
You can freeze the uncooked marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. Cooked kebabs can also be frozen—wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating:
Reheat cooked kebabs in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marination Time:
The marinade not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it. Give it at least 30 minutes to work its magic.

2. Overcrowding the Skewers:
Tightly packed skewers lead to uneven cooking. Leave space between each piece for consistent heat distribution.

3. Not Soaking Wooden Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.

4. Overcooking the Chicken:
Chicken breast can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid guessing.

5. Skipping Rest Time After Cooking:
Let the grilled kebabs rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for moist, flavorful meat.

Pro Tips

1. Use metal skewers if you grill frequently—they’re reusable and don’t burn.

2. Make a double batch of the yogurt sauce. It’s perfect on grilled veggies, wraps, or as a dip for fresh pita.

3. Add vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for color and added nutrition.

4. Don’t overmix the marinade—just whisk until combined to keep the oil and acid balanced.

5. Grill with the lid closed if using a barbecue. This helps trap heat and ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs are juicier and work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I bake these kebabs instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake in a 400°F oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You can also broil them for the last 2–3 minutes for added char.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your yogurt and spices are certified gluten-free.

Can I make the yogurt sauce dairy-free?
You can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt. Be sure to use plain, unsweetened versions for best results.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is ideal. You can also marinate it overnight for even more flavor.

Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the skewers up to a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge.

What’s the best way to reheat these without drying them out?
Reheat gently in the oven, covered with foil, or microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist.

What kind of grill should I use?
Any grill works—gas, charcoal, or an indoor grill pan. Just make sure it’s hot and lightly oiled before cooking.

Can I freeze the yogurt sauce?
It’s best made fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container. Stir well after thawing, as the texture may change.

Can I add spice for more heat?
Definitely. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the marinade for extra kick.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re looking for a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner, these Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are the way to go. They’re vibrant, satisfying, and come together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re grilling for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers every time.

Now it’s your turn. Fire up that grill, whip up some yogurt sauce, and enjoy a little taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen. And when you do, I’d love to see your delicious creations—snap a photo and tag me on social media or drop a comment below to let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!

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