Flavorful Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs with Lemon: Your Guide to Easy Grilling Perfection
As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, bringing the delightful grilling season upon us, there’s nothing quite like gathering friends and family for an outdoor feast. And for me, that often means firing up the grill for these incredibly delicious Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs with Lemon. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of vibrant Mediterranean flavors, combining succulent chicken breast with crisp, colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, all brought to life by a zesty and tenderizing Greek marinade.

There’s something uniquely satisfying about grilling. Beyond the irresistible smoky char it imparts to food, it transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes. It’s no secret in my household that my kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, will devour almost anything if it’s been cooked on the grill. These Easy Chicken Kabobs are a testament to that magic. They are not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare, making them an ideal choice for a quick mid-week dinner or a relaxed weekend backyard BBQ.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in their aromatic Greek Marinade earlier in the day, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize beautifully. Then, when dinner time rolls around, all you need to do is thread the marinated pieces onto skewers and get them on the grill. The secret to their incredible taste lies in the rich, tangy Greek yogurt marinade, which not only adds a burst of flavor but also works wonders in keeping the chicken incredibly juicy and moist. While these Greek Chicken Kabobs are versatile enough to be served with almost any vegetable side, I highly recommend drizzling them with my creamy Tahini Yogurt Sauce for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
While the grill is my preferred method for cooking these Greek Chicken Kabobs, offering that signature smoky flavor and perfect char, don’t worry if you don’t have one or if the weather isn’t cooperating. These versatile kabobs can also be easily baked or broiled in the oven on a baking sheet, ensuring you can enjoy their deliciousness year-round.
If you share my passion for grilling and love exploring different flavors, I encourage you to try some of my other fantastic recipes. Dive into the rich tastes of my Mediterranean Beef Kabobs, experience the tender goodness of Yogurt Marinated Chicken, savor the unique blend of spices in my Turkey Kofta Kebab Recipe, discover the authentic notes of Lebanese Chicken Kebabs, or enjoy these savory Chicken Kofta Kebabs. Beyond today’s delightful offering, I firmly believe that this Greek Marinated Chicken features arguably the best Greek chicken marinade for an unforgettable meal.
Essential Recipe Ingredients for Perfect Greek Kabobs

Creating these sensational Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish truly special. You’ll find a full list with exact measurements in the detailed recipe card below, but here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe shine:
- Chicken: For this recipe, I’ve chosen boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into uniform 1 1/2 inch chunks. This size ensures even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces. While chicken breast consistently delivers juicy results when properly marinated, you can absolutely substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken tenderloins, also cut into chunks. Chicken thighs tend to be more forgiving and naturally moist, offering another delicious option.
- Vegetables: To add a wonderful array of colors, textures, and nutrients to these kabobs, I’ve used a vibrant combination of red bell peppers and green bell peppers, crisp zucchini, and sweet red onion. These vegetables not only look appealing but also become beautifully tender and slightly charred on the grill, complementing the chicken perfectly.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon is a cornerstone of Greek cuisine and absolutely essential for this marinade. I incorporate both the zest and the juice of a lemon. The zest provides an intense, aromatic citrus flavor, while the juice adds a bright, tangy note and, crucially, helps to tenderize the chicken, breaking down muscle fibers and ensuring a succulent texture.
- Oil: To achieve the best possible flavor profile and a healthy fat component in the marinade, I always opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Its fruity, robust notes enhance the overall Greek theme. However, if you prefer, regular olive oil or any other cooking oil you typically enjoy (like avocado oil) can be used.
- Seasoning: The carefully balanced seasoning blend is what truly defines the “Greek” character of this marinade. It’s seasoned with essential sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, along with fragrant garlic powder for an aromatic depth. A touch of cayenne pepper is included to provide a very subtle warmth and kick, elevating the flavor without making the dish overly spicy.
- Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt is a non-negotiable ingredient for this marinade. Its thick, creamy consistency coats the chicken beautifully, and its natural acidity works wonders as a tenderizer. The fats in the full-fat yogurt also help to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out during grilling. While natural yogurt can be a substitute, full-fat Greek yogurt will yield the most authentic flavor and ideal texture.

Expert Tips and Creative Modifications for Your Kabobs
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to your personal taste and what you have on hand. These Greek Chicken Kabobs are incredibly flexible, allowing for various substitutions and additions to make them truly your own. Here are some of my favorite tips and modification ideas:
- Chicken Choices: While I’ve used lean chicken breast for its tender texture, feel free to swap it for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are naturally richer in flavor and moisture, making them a fantastic alternative that’s very forgiving on the grill. If using thighs, cut them into similar 1 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Bell Pepper Power: Don’t limit yourself to just red and green bell peppers. Any color bell pepper will work wonderfully, adding a sweet crunch and vibrant hue to your skewers. Yellow and orange bell peppers offer a slightly milder, sweeter flavor.
- Expand Your Veggie Palette: The beauty of kabobs is how easily you can incorporate a variety of vegetables. Besides the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, consider adding chunks of eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Ensure all vegetables are cut to a similar size to promote even cooking.
- Seasoning Symphony: The marinade is a perfect canvas for your favorite Greek-inspired spices. Enhance the flavors with a pinch of paprika for color and warmth, dried oregano or thyme for classic Mediterranean notes, or even a touch of Greek seasoning blend. For a more adventurous twist, a hint of ground cinnamon or cumin can add an unexpected depth, often found in various Middle Eastern and Mediterranean recipes.
- A Touch of Feta: For a truly authentic Greek finish, crumble some tangy feta cheese over the grilled kabobs just before serving. The salty, creamy cheese melts slightly from the residual heat, adding an irresistible layer of flavor and texture.
- Dial Up the Heat: If you enjoy a little spice in your life, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to the marinade. This will introduce a gentle warmth without overpowering the fresh Greek flavors. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.
- Skewer Selection: If using bamboo or wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes (or ideally an hour) before threading. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are also an excellent, reusable option.
Mastering the Art of Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delicious Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs is surprisingly straightforward, involving just a few simple steps. The key to their incredible flavor and tenderness lies in the marination process. Follow these instructions for a perfect grilling experience every time.
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Chicken and Vegetables: Begin by combining all the marinade ingredients with your chicken and vegetables. In a large ziplock bag or a spacious mixing bowl, add the chicken pieces, colorful bell peppers (red and green), tender zucchini, and chunky red onion. Then, sprinkle in the sea salt, ground black pepper, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Finally, add the essential Greek yogurt, which is key for tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor.
Using tongs or your hands (wearing gloves is recommended), thoroughly coat all the chicken and vegetables in this vibrant marinade. Ensure every piece is well-covered. Once coated, cover the bowl or seal the ziplock bag and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This marinating time is crucial for developing deep flavors and ensuring the chicken remains incredibly moist. If you plan to use bamboo or wooden skewers, now is the time to soak them in cold water for at least an hour. This prevents them from charring or burning when they hit the hot grill. Alternatively, use sturdy metal skewers, which require no soaking.

Step 2. Thread the Kabobs: When you’re ready to cook, retrieve the marinated chicken and vegetables from the refrigerator. If using wooden skewers, they should be well-soaked by now. If using metal skewers, they’re ready to go.
Carefully thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers. The trick here is to alternate the chicken pieces with the different vegetables, creating visually appealing skewers and ensuring that flavors mingle beautifully. Continue threading until all the marinated ingredients are used up, creating a vibrant array of kabobs. Once threaded, lightly drizzle an additional 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the skewers. This extra oil helps prevent sticking to the grill and promotes a beautiful golden-brown sear.

Step 3. Grill the Chicken Shish Kabobs to Perfection: Preheat your outdoor grill to a medium-high heat. Achieving the right temperature is key for a beautiful sear and thorough cooking without burning.
Once the grill is hot, brush the grates with the remaining olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the threaded skewers directly onto the hot grill. Grill the kabobs for approximately 6 minutes on each side, turning them gently to ensure all sides get a nice char and cook evenly. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and flavorful chicken. Serve them warm, optionally garnished with a scattering of fresh herbs like chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for an added burst of freshness and color. For an authentic and delightful dipping experience, I highly recommend pairing these kabobs with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce.
Recipe Tip for Optimal Flavor and Texture: For the most tender and flavorful results, I highly recommend marinating these Greek Chicken Kabobs for a minimum of 30 minutes, and ideally up to 2 hours. This duration allows the Greek yogurt and lemon juice to deeply infuse the chicken with their zesty, herbaceous flavors and tenderizing properties. However, it’s crucial not to marinate for much longer than 2 hours. The acidity from the lemon juice, while beneficial in moderation, can start to break down the chicken’s proteins excessively if left too long, potentially leading to a “mushy” or overly soft texture. Stick to the 2-hour maximum for perfect results!

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Cooked Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs make fantastic leftovers, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day. To keep them fresh and delicious:
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For best results, remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers before storing. When you’re ready to reheat, you can do so in a preheated oven (around 350°F / 175°C) until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated evenly. Be careful not to overcook when reheating, as this can dry out the chicken.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Greek Chicken Kabobs?
These flavorful Greek Chicken Kabobs are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a wide variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some of my top recommendations:
- Fresh and Crisp Salads: A refreshing salad is almost a mandatory accompaniment to grilled kabobs, balancing the rich flavors. Try my vibrant Mediterranean Bean Salad, a zesty Lemon Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts, a light and flavorful Summer Orzo Pasta Salad, or this wonderfully simple and fresh Easy Lebanese Salad.
- Hearty Vegetable Sides: If you prefer a more substantial vegetable side, there are plenty of options that complement the Greek flavors beautifully. Consider serving these kabobs alongside my tender Lebanese Green Beans, aromatic Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower, or a colorful medley of Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables.
- Delicious Potato Dishes: Potatoes are always a welcome addition to any meal, and they pair exceptionally well with grilled chicken. For a comforting touch, whip up some creamy Gouda Smashed Potatoes, indulge in an Air Fryer Twice Baked Potato, or spice things up with my savory Spicy Lebanese Potatoes.
- Warm Breads for Dipping: To soak up all the delicious juices and sauces, a soft, warm bread is a must. We love serving these kabobs with fluffy pita bread, soft naan, or even crispy homemade pita chips for scooping.
More Irresistible Skewer & Kebab Recipes to Try
Chicken
Classic Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Simple Dinner Recipes
Flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Mediterranean
Tender Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Beef
Zesty Mediterranean Beef Kabobs
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Zesty Lemon Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs

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Ingredients for Zesty Greek Chicken Kabobs
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 cup green bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 cup zucchini, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 large red onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Juice of one fresh lemon
- Zest of one fresh lemon
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 3/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
Simple Cooking Instructions
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In a large ziplock bag or a spacious mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, bell peppers (both red and green), zucchini, red onion, sea salt, ground black pepper, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and Greek yogurt. Use tongs or your hands to thoroughly coat all the chicken and vegetables in the marinade. Cover the mixture and let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to infuse with maximum flavor and tenderness.
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Once marinated, remove the chicken and vegetables from the fridge when you’re ready to cook.
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If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak at least 10 of them in cold water for a minimum of one hour prior to grilling. This prevents them from burning.
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Carefully thread the marinated chicken and various vegetables onto the skewers, alternating the pieces to create an appealing and even distribution of ingredients. Once threaded, drizzle an additional 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the assembled skewers.
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Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to achieve a good sear.
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Brush the hot grill grates with any remaining olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers directly onto the grill and cook for approximately 6 minutes per side. Continue grilling and turning until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Once cooked through, remove the kabobs from the grill and serve them warm. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro or parsley and a sprinkle of chopped green onion for an added burst of flavor and color.
Chef’s Notes
- Feel free to use any color bell pepper you enjoy – yellow and orange peppers work just as wonderfully and add their own sweet notes.
- Expand your vegetable selection! Other excellent additions for these kabobs include chunks of eggplant, cherry tomatoes, or sliced mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.