The smell of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill is an irresistible invitation that brings everyone to the backyard. Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish full of bold flavors, taking only about 30 minutes from prep to plate. This recipe particularly works because the yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken while adding a rich flavor that can’t be beaten.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply seeking a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves easy, delicious grilling. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it even easier to throw on the grill when you need dinner in a flash.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Succulent chicken infused with a creamy, tangy marinade.
- Quick cooking time that allows for a speedy meal.
- Simple preparation with minimal cleanup.
- A crowd-pleaser at any gathering or cookout.
What You’ll Need
Gather the ingredients to create mouthwatering grilled chicken skewers.
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, grated/minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Use regular yogurt for marinade consistency.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Plain yogurt can be swapped for Greek yogurt.
- Lemon juice can be replaced with lime juice.
- Tomato paste can be substituted with ketchup.
- Olive oil may be replaced with vegetable oil.
How to Make It
Get ready to grill with these straightforward steps.
1. Mix
In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, tomato paste, garlic, paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring all are coated well. Cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight.
3. Skewer
When ready to cook, take the marinated chicken from the fridge and skewer the pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
4. Grill
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the skewers for about 2-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months if cooked.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Tips for Best Results
- Always preheat the grill for even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust the marination time based on your preference for flavor intensity.
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Pair with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip.
- Enjoy with a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal.
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