Bursting with vibrant color and flavor, Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread is one of those dazzling dishes that immediately transports you to a sun-soaked table by the sea. Each herby, lemon-kissed skewer sits alongside an abundant mezze platter of creamy hummus, cooling tzatziki, crunchy veggies, salty olives, and pillowy pita wedges. It’s a gorgeous showstopper that somehow manages to be both a breeze to throw together and endlessly impressive, whether you’re planning a summer cookout or an easy weeknight feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple. Every ingredient plays a starring role, bringing its own boost of taste, texture, or a flash of Mediterranean color to the party. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread shine:
- Chicken thighs or breasts (1 ½ lbs/680g): You want juicy, tender chunks; thighs offer extra flavor but breasts are wonderfully lean if you prefer.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp): The backbone of any great Mediterranean marinade, lending fruitiness and locking in moisture.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp): Brightens up the chicken with citrusy zing.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds a punchy depth that infuses every bite.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Earthy and fragrant, it’s a classic Mediterranean herb you’ll taste instantly.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Gives a gentle warmth and beautiful color.
- Cumin (½ tsp): Offers a subtle, savory complexity that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
- Salt (¾ tsp): Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): A touch of heat for balance.
- Hummus (1 cup): Creamy, lemony, and essential for scooping with pita.
- Tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce (½ cup): Cool, tangy, and utterly refreshing next to the savory chicken.
- Cherry tomatoes (½ cup, halved): Sweet pops of color and juicy contrast.
- Cucumber (sliced): Adds crunch and a cooling effect on the platter.
- Kalamata olives (½ cup): Bursts of salty, briny flavor.
- Crumbled feta cheese (½ cup): Salty and creamy, feta makes the whole spread sing.
- Warm pita bread (1 cup, cut into wedges): The perfect vehicle for scooping every last bite.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Brings freshness and a pop of green to finish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Squeezing over everything just before eating wakes up all the flavors.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Toss in your chicken pieces and really make sure each one is coated—this marinade works its magic, infusing the chicken with bright, savory flavor that will shine through when it hits the grill. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for a pop of flavor, or up to 4 hours if you want it bold and deeply seasoned.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
After marinating, it’s time for the fun part. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water so they don’t burn on the grill. Thread the juicy chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving just a little space between the chunks—this helps each side get that gorgeous char and ensures even cooking from edge to edge.
Step 3: Grill the Skewers
Fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lay your skewers down and let them sizzle away, turning occasionally. In about 10–12 minutes, your chicken should have deep golden char marks and reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). The aroma is irresistible! Give them a minute or two to rest—this keeps them juicy.
Step 4: Prepare the Mezze Board
While your skewers cook, arrange the mezze components on a big platter or board for maximum visual impact. Dollop creamy hummus and tzatziki for dipping, scatter over the juicy cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, briny olives, crumbled feta, and wedges of soft, warm pita. A good sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley makes everything look vibrant and inviting.
Step 5: Serve
Lay your hot, charred Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread right alongside the platter. Squeeze fresh lemon over the chicken and let everyone dive in family-style, piling up their plates with chicken, pita, dips, and veggies—the very best kind of Mediterranean feast.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread
Garnishes
An extra sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a scattering of more crumbled feta, or a dusting of smoked paprika are simple ways to add pops of color and flavor across your Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread. Don’t forget those lemon wedges! Guests will love squeezing them over the whole platter for an added burst of brightness.
Side Dishes
You already have so much goodness on the mezze board, but you can round out your Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread with maybe a simple Greek salad, stuffed grape leaves, or roasted potatoes. For bigger gatherings, add a chilled orzo or couscous salad for a little extra variety.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving up Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread can be a showstopper! Arrange everything on a big wooden board for a rustic look, pile the chicken and sides onto a colorful tray, or go mini: make individual mezze bowls with half a skewer, a dollop of hummus and tzatziki, and plenty of veggies and pita. This is a dish that invites everyone to build their own perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread, pop the chicken, veggies, feta, and olives into airtight containers and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Keep dips like hummus and tzatziki separate so things stay fresh and flavors don’t mingle too much.
Freezing
Cooked chicken skewers freeze surprisingly well. Let them cool, remove the chicken from the skewers, and freeze in a zip-top baggie or container for up to two months. The pita, veggies, and dips are best enjoyed fresh and don’t hold up well in the freezer, so just save the chicken on its own.
Reheating
To bring your chicken back to life, reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, too. Serve with fresh veggies and dips—your Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread will taste just as good as day one.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast makes for a leaner skewer and cooks quickly. Just be sure not to overcook it—thicker pieces stay juicier.
What’s the best way to grill if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
A stovetop grill pan or even a broiler works wonderfully for Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread. You’ll still get those great char marks and smoky flavor!
How far in advance can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate your chicken up to 4 hours ahead. This gives the flavors time to develop fully without starting to break down the meat’s texture.
What if I’m short on time for making the mezze spread?
Store-bought hummus, tzatziki, and pre-sliced veggies are total lifesavers! The homemade skewers bring all the fresh flavor, so it’s perfectly okay to take a shortcut with the sides.
Is this recipe gluten free?
The chicken skewers and mezze items are naturally gluten free. Just swap the pita for gluten-free flatbread or chips if needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to treat yourself and your loved ones to delicious, wholesome flavors, Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread truly delivers. Every component is a joy to eat and easy to pull together—perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or special dinners. Give it a try, and let this dish brighten your table!
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Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread Recipe
- Total Time: 57 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Mediterranean
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Spread are a delightful combination of grilled marinated chicken served alongside a variety of classic Mediterranean dips and accompaniments. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mezze Spread:
- 1 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup warm pita bread, cut into wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden or metal skewers. Leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook skewers 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Mezze Board: Arrange hummus, tzatziki, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and pita on a large platter or board. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve: Place hot chicken skewers alongside the mezze spread. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving. Enjoy family-style with warm pita and dips.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: Not Available
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: Not Available
- Unsaturated Fat: Not Available
- Trans Fat: Not Available
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: Not Available
