Juicy, lemon-herb chicken skewers served over creamy hummus with crisp vegetables, feta, fresh herbs, and a bright Mediterranean dressing. It’s protein-packed, colorful, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
1½ lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp onion powder
For the Creamy Hummus Bowl
1½ cups hummus
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
1–2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, optional
Lemon wedges, for serving
Simple Lemon Dressing
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 small garlic clove, finely minced
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to a large bowl.
Add olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, thyme, and onion powder. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20–30 minutes to help prevent burning.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Cook the Chicken
Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high. Cook the skewers for about 10–14 minutes, turning several times, until browned and cooked through.
Air fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–14 minutes, turning halfway through.
Oven: Place skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for approximately 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest piece.
- Make the Dressing
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Taste and adjust the lemon juice or seasoning if desired.
- Assemble the Hummus Bowls
Spread about ¾ cup hummus into each serving bowl.
Arrange cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta, parsley, and mint around the hummus.
Place the warm chicken skewers on top or alongside the hummus.
Drizzle with the lemon dressing and sprinkle with optional sesame seeds.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Optional Additions
For a more filling bowl, add:
Warm pita bread
Cooked quinoa
Brown rice
Couscous
Roasted vegetables
Avocado
Pickled red onions
Tzatziki sauce
Meal Prep
Prepare the chicken, hummus, and vegetables separately and store them in airtight containers.
For best texture, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.
The cooked chicken can generally be refrigerated for 3–4 days when stored properly.
Nut & Allergen Information
Contains:
Sesame: Hummus commonly contains tahini, which is made from sesame seeds. Optional sesame seeds also add sesame.
Dairy: Feta cheese contains milk.
Legumes: Hummus is made from chickpeas.
Gluten: The bowl itself can be gluten-free, but check packaged hummus, seasonings, sauces, and any pita bread for gluten-containing ingredients.
Tree nuts: No tree nuts are required in this recipe.
Peanuts: No peanuts are required.
Important: If serving someone with a serious allergy, check the labels of packaged hummus, feta, olives, spices, and other prepared ingredients for allergen statements and possible cross-contact.
Nutrition Notes
Nutrition will vary depending on the amount of hummus, feta, dressing, and chicken used. For a lighter bowl, use a moderate amount of hummus and feta and increase the fresh vegetables.
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
A: Yes. Chicken thighs are especially juicy and flavorful and work very well for skewers.
Q: Can I make these chicken skewers without a grill?
A: Absolutely. They can be cooked in an air fryer or oven.
Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes. Marinate the chicken several hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: The main ingredients can be gluten-free, but always check packaged hummus, seasonings, and other prepared ingredients for gluten or cross-contact.
Q: Is hummus made with nuts?
A: Traditional hummus is made from chickpeas and tahini (sesame), not tree nuts. However, some commercial hummus products may contain additional ingredients, so check the label.
Q: Can I make the bowl dairy-free?
A: Yes. Simply omit the feta or use a suitable dairy-free alternative.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes. Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, roasted chickpeas, or plant-based protein.
Q: How can I make it more filling?
A: Add quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or warm pita alongside the chicken and hummus.
Q: Can I use store-bought hummus?
A: Definitely. Choose your favorite plain, roasted garlic, or Mediterranean-style hummus.
Q: What vegetables work best in this bowl?
A: Cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, roasted peppers, lettuce, and fresh herbs all pair beautifully with the chicken and hummus.
Q: How long does the assembled bowl last?
A: For the best texture, store the components separately and assemble just before eating. Refrigerate cooked chicken and prepared ingredients promptly.
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