Easy Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs (Juicy Grilled Skewers Recipe)

This Middle Eastern chicken kebabs recipe is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Marinated in yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and warm spices, these Middle Eastern chicken kebabs turn out tender, vibrant, and perfectly charred every time.

Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend grilling, or casual gatherings, this Middle Eastern chicken kebabs recipe is a go-to for bold flavor with minimal effort. The marinade does all the work, infusing the chicken with rich spices while keeping it moist and delicious.

Whether you’re using an outdoor grill, oven, or stovetop grill pan, these Middle Eastern grilled chicken skewers are simple, wholesome, and packed with authentic flavor. Serve them with rice, pita, or fresh salad for a complete meal.

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How to Make Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs (Step-by-Step)

Easy Mediterranean Dishes

Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs

5 from 2 votes

Middle Eastern chicken kebabs are made with tender chunks of chicken marinated in yogurt, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and warm spices. Grilled to juicy perfection with lightly charred edges, these flavorful skewers are perfect for easy weeknight dinners or summer gatherings. Serve with rice, salad, or warm pita for a complete Middle Eastern meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Marinating Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 330

Ingredients Method Video

Ingredients

  

For Chicken Marinade

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt or milk
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 4 tbsp tomato sauce
• 3 tbsp yellow mustard sauce
• 1 tsp salt – or to taste
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper – or to taste
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp Middle Eastern chicken spices – You can substitute with extra salt, white pepper, coriander, ginger, cloves, and cardamom.
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme – optional
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano – optional

For Skewers

• 1 large red bell pepper – cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
• 1 large green bell pepper ( or green zucchini) – cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
• 1 medium red onion – cut into wedges or 1 1/2 inch cubes
• 1 large yellow bell pepper – cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
• 1 large orange bell pepper – cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes

For Serving

• 1 fresh lemon – cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley – chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Method

 

Middle Eastern Chicken Kebab Marinade

1. Place the chicken cubes in a big bowl.
   
2. Add yogurt or milk, olive oil, lemon juice, tomato sauce, yellow mustard, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chicken spices, thyme, and oregano.
   
3. Toss to coat thoroughly.
   
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour ( 4 to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
   

Assemble the Chicken Kebabs Skewers

1. Thread chicken into skewers, alternating with red bell pepper, zucchini, or green bell pepper, yellow or orange bell pepper, and red onion.
   
if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first.

Cook the Chicken Kebabs

1. Grill method ( for best flavor):

   Preheat grill to medium-high (400-425 F).

   Grill skewers 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165 F.
   
2. Oven Method:

   Preheat oven to 425 F.

   Place skewers on a lined baking sheet.

   Bake 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

   Broil 2-3 minutes at the end for char.
   
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a drizzle of olive oil.
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley right before serving.

Video

Tips for Juicy and Tender Chicken Kebabs

• Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor
• Use yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices to help tenderize the meat
• Choose chicken thighs for juicier results (breast can dry out faster)
• Cut chicken into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers—leave space for even heat circulation
• Grill over medium-high heat, not high heat, to avoid burning
• Turn skewers occasionally for even cooking on all sides
• Avoid overcooking—remove chicken as soon as it’s cooked through
• Let the kebabs rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep juices inside

What to Serve with Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs

Pair these juicy Arabic chicken kebabs with yellow rice, warm pita bread, and a Mediterranean salad. Top it off with tzatziki or tahini for the perfect feast!

Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs Recipe Substitute

If you have picky eaters like me, you can substitute the bell pepper with cherry tomatoes. You can also assemble the skewers with chicken only.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Kebabs

If you have leftovers, chicken kebabs store very well and can be enjoyed later with minimal effort. Allow the kebabs to cool completely, then remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken kebabs. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, the best method is to use the oven. Place the chicken on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain moisture without drying out the chicken.

Middle Eastern Chicken Kebab Recipe FAQs

What is the best marinade for Middle Eastern chicken kebabs?

A traditional marinade includes yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices like garlic, paprika, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and coriander for bold flavor.

How do you keep chicken kebabs juicy?

Use a marinade, avoid overcooking, and grill over medium-high heat. Chicken thighs also stay juicier than breast meat.

Can I bake chicken kebabs instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked and slightly charred.

How long should I marinate chicken for kebabs?

For the best flavor, marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight gives the most tender and flavorful results.

Can I use chicken breast for kebabs?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook it. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier.

I hope you love these Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs skewers as much as we do! They’re simple, flavorful, and perfect for bringing a little sunshine to your table any time of year.

If you try this delicious Middle Eastern Chicken Kebab recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—leave a comment below and let me know what sides you served it with or how you made it your own.

Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with family and friends who enjoy easy, delicious Mediterranean meals!

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