Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

Name: Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 red onion, cut into chunks; Skewers (wooden or metal)

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I love making Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers for a quick and delicious dinner. The combination of juicy chicken marinated in fragrant spices and grilled to perfection makes this dish a favorite in our home. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a weekend barbecue, these skewers are incredibly easy to prepare and pack a punch of flavor. We often serve them with a vibrant salad or a side of couscous for a well-rounded meal that the whole family enjoys. You'll find that this recipe becomes a go-to for its simplicity and taste.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:50:28.208Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Chicken Skewers, I was amazed at how infused the chicken could get with a simple marinade. I experimented with various spice combinations and settled on this blend of oregano, garlic, and lemon that elevates the dish dramatically. Marinating the chicken at least an hour, or overnight if you have time, allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Grilling them is not just about cooking; it’s about getting those beautiful char marks. I often switch between cooking on a gas grill and using my stovetop grill pan, and I’ve found that both methods yield delightful results. Don’t skip the veggies on the skewers—they add color and a sweet crunch!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Perfectly balanced spices that transport you to the Mediterranean
Grilling technique locks in flavor and texture
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing flavor and ensuring moisture in the skewers. The olive oil helps to tenderize the meat while the lemon juice adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness. Aim for a marination time of at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let the chicken sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours. This not only enhances the taste but also results in juicier and more flavorful pieces after grilling.

When marinating, you can experiment with additional spices or herbs to personalize the flavor profile. Consider adding cumin or paprika for a smoky twist. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the chicken; the goal is to enhance its natural flavors rather than mask them.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Skewers

For optimal results, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this typically ranges from 400°F to 450°F. Proper preheating ensures that the chicken develops a beautiful sear and those coveted grill marks, enhancing both the presentation and flavor. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading the chicken and vegetables. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

While grilling, keep an eye on the skewers and turn them every couple of minutes. Look for the chicken to turn golden brown with juices running clear; this usually takes around 10 minutes. If you’re unsure, using a meat thermometer can ensure doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serving Suggestions and Customizations

These Easy Mediterranean Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be served in various ways. Consider serving them with a refreshing tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and dill to complement the Mediterranean flavors. A vibrant salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta adds freshness, while a simple couscous or rice can round out the meal effortlessly.

Don’t hesitate to customize the skewers by adding your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully in combination with the chicken, offering additional layers of flavor and texture. You could also substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist, adjusting the grilling time accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting for an efficient cooking experience.

For the Marinade and Skewers

1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Ensure you soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Instructions

Before grilling, ensure everything is prepped and within reach for a smooth cooking process.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to seep into the meat.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper chunks, and onion chunks onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat for a few minutes until hot.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Serve

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side of your choice!

Feel free to drizzle with additional lemon juice before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. This adds an extra depth that complements the Mediterranean theme.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to enjoy these skewers without the stress of preparing them last minute, consider marinating the chicken ahead of time. You can store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only saves you time but also deepens the flavor, making your meal more delicious when you're ready to grill.

For leftovers, let the skewers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a grill or in the oven at low heat until warmed through, avoiding the microwave, which can make the chicken rubbery.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your skewers seem dry after grilling, it may be due to insufficient marinating time or cooking them at too high a temperature. Always keep an eye on the grill temperature, aiming for medium-high, as too high heat can quickly dry out the meat. Use a marinade to help retain moisture, and don’t skip the resting period after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.

On the flip side, if the chicken is undercooked, make sure to check the internal temperature and grill it a little longer. If you're using larger chunks of chicken, they may require additional cooking time. Using skewers helps with even cooking, but it's important to arrange them separated on the grill for optimal heat flow.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. For a gathering, simply double or triple the amounts of chicken and vegetables and keep the marinade ratios the same to maintain flavor balance. Preparing multiple skewers is also a fun way to encourage guests to customize their own dinner with toppings and sides.

If you're cooking for a smaller group or meal-prepping, feel free to half the ingredients. The meal's assembly and cooking times will not change significantly. Always make sure to adjust your marinade to maintain that delicious flavor, regardless of how many skewers you are grilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

→ What should I serve with the skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, couscous, or pita bread.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the skewers for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.