Description
These Lemon Basil Chicken Kebabs are a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish marinated in yogurt, lemon, garlic, and fresh basil. Perfect for summer BBQs or a light dinner, they offer a zesty and fresh taste that pairs beautifully with basmati rice or crunchy bread, garnished with fresh mint.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 cup plain, full-fat yogurt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
Chicken
- 2 lb chicken breast, cut into 1” cubes
To Serve
- Basmati rice or crunchy bread
- Fresh mint, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a food processor, combine yogurt, black pepper, kosher salt, honey, crushed garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh basil leaves. Blend until the mixture is mostly smooth. Add olive oil and pulse briefly to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken cubes into a bowl or a Ziploc bag and add the marinade. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Seal and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully absorb.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high temperature. Prepare metal skewers by threading the marinated chicken cubes onto them, ensuring they are spaced without overcrowding for even cooking.
- Grill the kebabs: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, until the chicken is charred in spots and cooked through internally.
- Alternative cooking methods: If a grill is not available, sear the kebabs in a hot cast iron skillet or broil them in the oven on a rack until fully cooked, turning to ensure even browning.
- Serve: Plate the cooked kebabs over a bed of basmati rice or alongside crunchy bread. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Greek yogurt can be used in place of plain yogurt, though it may require thinning with a splash of water or lemon juice.
- Chicken thighs may be substituted for chicken breast for a juicier kebab.
- Leftover kebabs store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold in salads or warmed in wraps.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 24 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
