Description

These Simple Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Marinated in a mix of creamy yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, the chicken becomes tender and infused with bright, savory flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, these skewers grill up perfectly, delivering delicious smoky char and a delightful texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 cup Plain Yogurt (Full-fat or Greek yogurt recommended)
3-4 cloves Garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Salt
0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
1 teaspoon Cumin or Paprika (optional for extra flavor)

For Grilling

8-10 pieces Wooden Skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and olive oil. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Add Spices: To the yogurt mixture, add salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and your choice of cumin or paprika if desired. Stir thoroughly to fully incorporate all the spices into the marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Toss the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate and to tenderize the chicken.
Prepare Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Once soaked, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve a nice char and ensure the chicken cooks evenly through.
Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a juicy and tender bite. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 4 hours) for more tender and flavorful results.
Use full-fat or Greek yogurt for best texture and flavor.
Soaking wooden skewers is important to prevent burning on the grill.
Can be cooked on an indoor grill pan or broiler if an outdoor grill is not available.
Optional spices like cumin or paprika add a smoky depth but can be omitted for simplicity.
Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.