Chicken Kebab Recipe & Marinade (2024)

These lemon chicken kebabs are infused overnight with the best kebab marinade and grilled to perfection. This chicken kabob recipe is my go-to when we’re grilling for a crowd.

This lemon chicken kebab recipe is my favorite dish to make on the grill. The chicken kebabs are marinated overnight (or at least 6 hours) in the most delicious, flavorful chicken kabob marinade made with lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, turmeric, fresh dill and more.

Since the chicken is prepared the day before and marinated overnight, these chicken kabobs are my favorite main dish to serve at a summer party or barbecue.

We love serving them with our favorite mediterranean recipes like homemade tzatziki, homemade hummus, Mediterranean chickpea salad, Greek salad, and freshly made naan bread or pita bread.

Chicken Kebabs: Ingredients & Substitutions

• Lemon juice. Bottle and freshly squeezed lemon juice both work well in this recipe.
• Olive oil. Avocado oil is a good substitute if necessary.
• Dijon mustard. Use your favorite variety, just consider how it will impact the final flavor.
• Turmeric. There are no substitutions for turmeric, however it needs to be noted that due to the addition of turmeric the marinade will stain anything it touches. Use rubber gloves when handling the chicken and try not to spill on your counters.
• Smoked paprika. regular paprika works too!
• Minced garlic. jarred minced garlic or freshly minced garlic are both great options. You can substitute 1 tablespoon minced garlic with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, if you prefer.
• Fresh dill. I only recommend fresh or freeze-dried dill in this recipe.

How to Make Chicken Kebabs

There are two things to note in this chicken kebab recipe: 1) The chicken needs to marinate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. and 2) You need to soak the bamboo skewers in hot water for at least 1 hour before assembling the kabobs for the best results (and no charred skewers).

Marinate the Chicken

Begin this recipe by making the kabob marinade and marinating the chicken for 6-24 hours. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1” cubes or strips (your preference for kebabs).

Then, put the chicken breast pieces into a glass container with a lid or in a plastic bag inside another container (in case the bag leaks, the marinade stains).

Then make the chicken kabob marinade by whisking the ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl.

Next, pour the marinade over the chicken and turn to coat the chicken.

Then, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 6 hours).

Assemble the Chicken Kebabs

Once the chicken has finished marinating, it’s time to assemble the kebabs. Remember, you need to soak the bamboo skewers in warm water for at least 1 hour before assembling.

Or, you can use fire wire to grill the kabobs, then transfer the meat/veggies to a serving dish to serve. I like this option because it’s reusable and there is no need for soaking.

Important note: Due to the addition of turmeric the marinade will stain anything it touches, including your hands, counter tops, etc. I suggest wearing plastic or rubber gloves when handling the chicken, assembling the kabobs, etc.

Assemble the kabobs alternating between chicken, bell peppers and onion until all the meat/veggies are used.

Grill

Grill over medium heat for about 5 minutes on the first side, and 3-5 on the second side, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.

Serve

Serve the chicken kebabs warm with your favorite sides. Here are some suggestions:

• I always serve these chicken kabobs with homemade tzatziki and homemade hummus and freshly made naan bread or pita bread.
• A fresh salad pairs well with this chicken kebab recipe. Try our favorite Greek salad, chickpea salad, burrata salad, or kale salad.
• Quinoa salad and coleslaw are also great side dishes.

Store/Freeze

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Or in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Chicken Kebabs Recipe FAQs

If you make and love our recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along with us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Youtube – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so we can see your creations!