These Grilled Chicken Kebabs are packed with bold flavors and perfectly tender chicken. Marinated in a yogurt-based mix with a blend of spices, they’re ideal for summer grilling and perfect for any outdoor gathering. The combination of smoky paprika, cumin, and a hint of cinnamon gives these kebabs a delicious depth of flavor, making them a crowd favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Grilled Chicken Kebabs are a delicious and easy way to enjoy chicken with a burst of spices. The Greek yogurt marinade ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy, while the spices add a unique flavor profile that’s smoky, tangy, and just a little bit spicy. Whether you’re grilling for family or hosting a BBQ, these kebabs are quick to prepare and full of flavor. Grilled Chicken Kebab

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Juice of 1 lemon
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, onion powder, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into 1 ½-inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss until well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
Prepare the Skewers: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, being careful not to overcrowd them.
Grill the Kebabs: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grill grates with olive oil. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook over direct heat for 13-15 minutes, turning every couple of minutes to ensure even cooking.
Rest and Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marination time)

Variations

Vegetable Kebabs: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for a colorful and hearty kebab.
Chicken Breast: If you prefer chicken breast over thighs, you can substitute it, but make sure to watch the cooking time since chicken breast cooks faster than thighs.
Spicy Kick: For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the marinade.
Yogurt Substitutes: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or even sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the grilled chicken kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kebabs in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or warm them on a grill for a few minutes to heat through without overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the kebabs just before grilling for the best flavor.

2. Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal skewers?

Yes, you can use wooden skewers, but make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.

3. Can I make these kebabs in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the kebabs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the kebabs on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

4. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that they may dry out faster than thighs, so be careful not to overcook them.

5. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place it in an airtight bag or container, and thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.

6. Can I grill the kebabs without skewers?

Yes, you can grill the chicken pieces directly on the grill grates if you don’t have skewers. Just make sure to cook them evenly on all sides.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

8. Can I add a sauce to these kebabs?

Yes, you can serve the kebabs with a dipping sauce like tzatziki, barbecue sauce, or even extra cilantro lime aioli for a fresh complement to the flavors.

9. Can I make these kebabs on a grill pan?

Yes, you can use a grill pan indoors if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just heat the pan on medium-high and cook the kebabs for a few minutes on each side until cooked through.

10. Can I substitute the cilantro with other herbs?

Yes, you can substitute cilantro with parsley, mint, or basil if you prefer a different herbal flavor in the marinade.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Kebabs are a perfect addition to any summer meal or barbecue. The yogurt-based marinade ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender, while the blend of spices adds depth and warmth to every bite. Quick to prepare, full of flavor, and easily customizable, these kebabs are sure to become a favorite on your grill this season!