Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce are a delightful and tasty option for any gathering or family dinner. These kabobs offer a perfect blend of spices, featuring za’atar, and are complemented by a refreshing Laban Cucumber Yogurt Sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these kabobs will impress guests and family alike with their vibrant flavors and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Experience: The za’atar seasoning elevates the taste of the chicken, creating a dish that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, these kabobs fit any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe promotes healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
• Easy Preparation: With an easy marinade and simple cooking method, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Refreshing Sauce: The cucumber yogurt sauce adds a cool contrast to the warm kabobs, enhancing each bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken pieces together while grilling, ensuring even cooking.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that lovely smoky flavor that makes grilled dishes irresistible.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
• Knife & cutting board: Necessary for chopping ingredients accurately and safely.

Ingredients

These Lebanese-inspired Chicken Kabobs are seasoned with za’atar and served with a cool Laban Cucumber Yogurt Sauce.

For the Kabobs

• 1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried za’atar or oregano
• 1 clove crushed garlic
• 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
• lemon wedges for serving

For the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• 3/4 cup plain low fat Stonyfield yogurt
• 3/4 cup finely chopped cucumber (peeled and seeded)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh mint (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• fresh black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, za’atar (or oregano), crushed garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade mixture. Ensure all pieces are well-coated.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a zip-top bag:
– Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Prepare the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

In another mixing bowl:
1. Combine yogurt, chopped cucumber, lemon juice, dill, mint, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

Once marinated:
– Thread chicken pieces onto skewers evenly. Leave some space between pieces for even cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat:
– Grill kabobs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F).

Step 6: Serve

Remove from grill:
– Serve hot with cucumber yogurt sauce on the side and garnish with parsley. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce are not just delicious; they are also versatile and can be served in various ways. Pairing them correctly enhances the flavors and makes for a delightful meal experience.

Serve with Fresh Vegetables

• Crisp Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crunch and color to your plate, complementing the kabobs beautifully.
• Grilled Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant make great side companions, adding a smoky flavor.

Pair with Pita Bread

• Warm Pita: Serve warm pita bread on the side, perfect for scooping up the yogurt sauce.
• Pita Chips: For a crunchy alternative, offer pita chips seasoned with olive oil and herbs.

Add Rice or Quinoa

• Herbed Rice: Flavored rice, such as lemon or cilantro lime rice, pairs well with the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add texture and is an excellent source of protein.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the kabobs for a burst of freshness.
• Mint Leaves: Adding mint enhances the Mediterranean flavors and provides a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

To achieve the best results when preparing grilled chicken kabobs, follow these simple tips that ensure juicy and flavorful bites every time.

• Bold Marinade: Use the marinade for at least two hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken.
• Skewer Smartly: Alternate chicken pieces with vegetables like bell peppers or onions on skewers for added flavor and color.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the kabobs on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in juices.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow kabobs to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain moisture within the meat.
• Serve Warm: Grilled chicken kabobs are best enjoyed warm alongside the cool cucumber yogurt sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Pairing your grilled chicken kabobs with delicious sides elevates your meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad mixed with tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice.
2. Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with assorted veggies and pita makes for a satisfying dip.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty addition to your meal.
4. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad made from mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, and crispy pita bread drizzled with tangy dressing.
5. Baba Ghanoush: This smoky eggplant dip pairs beautifully with grilled meats and adds rich flavor.
6. Couscous Pilaf: Lightly flavored couscous cooked in broth garnished with nuts offers delightful texture alongside kabobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken kabobs can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid when making Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce.

• Not marinating the chicken long enough: Marinating adds flavor and tenderizes the meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for a deeper taste.
• Using the wrong grill temperature: A too-hot grill can char the outside while leaving the inside raw. Preheat your grill to medium heat for even cooking.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many pieces on one skewer prevents even cooking. Leave space between each piece for proper heat circulation.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting your kabobs rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps them juicy. This step is essential before serving.
• Neglecting the sauce: The Laban Cucumber Yogurt Sauce complements the kabobs perfectly. Don’t skip it; make sure to prepare it fresh for the best flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Grilled Chicken Kabobs will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• Place kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (about 1 minute) until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add kabobs, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Thighs provide more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Can I use other vegetables on my kabobs?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are great options that complement the chicken well and add color.

How do I make the Cucumber Yogurt Sauce thicker?

To thicken your sauce, strain the yogurt using cheesecloth or let it sit in a fine sieve over a bowl for about an hour.

Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance which adds flavor and saves time on cooking day.

What should I serve alongside these grilled chicken kabobs?

Serve them with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad to complete your meal. The combinations are endless!

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Cucumber Yogurt Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners!