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Citrus-Yogurt Marinated Chicken Kebabs

These chicken kebabs are marinated in a tangy, citrus-infused yogurt mixture that tenderizes the meat while adding a bright, zesty flavor. Grilled to perfection, they develop a juicy, slightly charred exterior with tender, flavorful interior, making them a vibrant addition to any barbecue. The marinade’s forgiving nature makes preparation simple and foolproof for a delicious, fresh-tasting dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt full-fat preferred
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
  • 8 bamboo skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Skewers
  • Bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Gather your ingredients and prepare the marinade by whisking together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, and cayenne in a large bowl until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add the chicken cubes into the bowl with the marinade, stirring well to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto soaked skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking and grill marks.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 200°C (390°F), until hot and slightly smoky aroma fills the air. Place the skewers onto the grill, spacing them evenly.
  5. Grill the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes with tongs until the chicken is golden brown and slightly charred on the edges, and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  6. Check that the juices run clear and the outside has a nice smoky char. Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  7. Serve the chicken kebabs hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy the juicy, tender bites with a smoky char and zesty brightness.