🌿 Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers 😋😋

📝 Description:

These Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers are bursting with vibrant flavors thanks to a simple lemon-garlic-oregano marinade. Tender, juicy, and lightly charred, they’re perfect for a light summer meal, BBQ party, or meal prep. Pair with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or warm pita for a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired experience.

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes (for extra flavor and mild heat)
• Metal or soaked wooden skewers

🍴 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional paprika/chili flakes.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Add chicken pieces to the marinade, toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (preferably 2–4 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Prepare the Skewers:
   Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers:
   Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
   Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 75°C).
5. Serve:
   Remove from grill, rest for 5 minutes, and serve with sides like tzatziki, pita bread, hummus, or salad.

👨‍🍳 Notes & Tips:

• Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs stay juicier, especially when grilled. Breasts are leaner and still work great with proper marination.
• Marination Time: Longer marination = better flavor. Don’t exceed 24 hours.
• Serving Idea: Serve on a platter with lemon wedges, tzatziki, olives, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
• Oven Option: No grill? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, broiling the last 2 minutes for color.

🍽️ Servings:

Serves 4 people (approx. 2 skewers per person)

🔍 Nutritional Info (per serving):

Approximate values based on 4 servings

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 17g
• Carbs: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 0g

(Does not include additional sides or sauces)

💪 Health Benefits:

• High in protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety.
• Olive oil: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Garlic & oregano: Provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Low carb & gluten-free: Great for various dietary preferences.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before. Skewer them just before grilling.

Q: What can I serve it with?

A: Try with Greek salad, quinoa tabbouleh, grilled veggies, or couscous.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

A: Absolutely! Freeze in a zip-top bag with marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.

Q: Can I use store-bought marinade?

A: You can, but the homemade version is fresher, healthier, and more flavorful.