Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with these Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant colors: juicy, lemony chicken skewers grilled to perfection, nestled beside a medley of creamy dips, fresh veggies, briny olives, and warm pita. Whether you’re planning a festive weekend gathering or simply craving something fresh, this Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray will turn any meal into a feast worth remembering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray lies in its simplicity and the bold, aromatic ingredients that truly make it shine. Each component brings something special: from the earthy depth of spices on the chicken to the creamy, garlicky dips on the mezze tray. Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas and your table will burst with color!
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 1/2 lbs): Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quicker marinating and even grilling; thighs offer extra juiciness, while breast meat gives a leaner bite.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the spices cling to the chicken, ensuring a perfect char on the grill.
- Lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemons brighten the marinade, providing a zesty tang that wakes up every bite.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the chicken with classic Mediterranean aroma and savoriness.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): A quintessential Mediterranean herb that lends robust, earthy notes.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives the chicken a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers warmth and depth, keeping the marinade grounded.
- Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a hint of citrus and nuttiness for extra dimension.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for drawing out all the flavors in your marinade.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Necessary for threading and grilling those chicken pieces to perfection.
- Hummus (1 cup): Creamy, nutty, and a must-have dip for any mezze spread.
- Tzatziki (1/2 cup): Cool, tangy yogurt infused with cucumber and herbs, perfect for dipping.
- Baba ganoush (1/2 cup, optional): Smoky eggplant dip that takes your tray to the next level.
- Mixed olives (1/2 cup): Kalamata and green olives add a briny, salty kick that contrasts beautifully with the fresh elements.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Juicy bites of sweetness that bring color and freshness.
- Cucumber, sliced (1): Crisp, cooling, and ideal for scooping up dips.
- Feta cubes (1/2 cup): Salty, crumbly cheese that perfectly echoes Mediterranean flavors.
- Warm pita bread or flatbread wedges: The essential vehicle for all those creamy dips and savory bites.
- Fresh parsley or dill: For garnishing, lending herbal freshness and visual flair.
- Olive oil for drizzling: Adds a final silky touch to dips and vegetables.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Here’s where the magic begins! In a large bowl, whisk together your olive oil, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken chunks and make sure every piece gets coated in this flavorful marinade. The longer you marinate (aim for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours), the deeper the flavor. Pop it in the fridge while you prepare the mezze elements.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a tiny bit of space between each chunk so the heat can work its way around and cook everything evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water first so they don’t burn on the grill!
Step 3: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on, and grill for about 10 to 14 minutes, turning occasionally. You’re aiming for juicy, fully cooked chicken with beautifully charred edges. When the chicken hits an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), you’re golden! Let the skewers rest for five minutes before serving—this helps lock in their juices.
Step 4: Arrange the Mezze Tray
While the chicken rests, grab a large platter or tray for your mezze. Spoon the hummus, tzatziki, and optional baba ganoush into small bowls and set them on the tray. Arrange the olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and glorious feta cubes all around. Warm your pita or flatbread, cut them into wedges, and tuck them in for easy grabbing. Finish the dips with a generous drizzle of olive oil.
Step 5: Serve
Now comes the best part: bringing it all together! Place your grilled Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray front and center. Scatter fresh parsley or dill over everything for a burst of color and flavor. Grab a skewer, scoop up your favorite dip, and dive into this Mediterranean feast—perfect for sharing or savoring solo!
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill is all you need to give your Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray an inviting, just-picked-from-the-garden look. You can also add a finishing flourish with lemon wedges or a dash of extra smoked paprika over the dips for a pop of color and a tempting aroma.
Side Dishes
Though the mezze tray is almost a meal in itself, you can easily pair it with a simple Greek salad, a handful of roasted baby potatoes, or even a lemony quinoa tabbouleh. Each side dish accentuates the flavors and gives your Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray that extra wow-factor, especially for a party or gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
You can keep it classic with everything laid out on a large serving tray, or mix things up by giving each guest their own mini mezze platter for an elegant touch. Stack the chicken skewers in a crisscross pattern for visual drama, or serve dips in hollowed bell peppers for extra color. However you present it, Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray is always a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra chicken or mezze, store everything separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken will stay fresh for up to three days, and the dips and veggies should be good for two to three days as well. Keep pita bread sealed so it doesn’t dry out.
Freezing
Chicken skewers freeze wonderfully: just remove the chicken from the skewers, let it cool, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Avoid freezing dips like tzatziki or baba ganoush, as their texture tends to suffer. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat chicken, simply pop it in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat, or warm briefly in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook, as you want to keep the chicken tender and juicy. Pita bread can be revived in a warm oven wrapped in foil for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I make Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Assemble the mezze tray ingredients earlier in the day and cover until ready to serve. Grill the chicken just before mealtime for best texture and warmth.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! A grill pan or even a hot skillet works beautifully. You’ll still get that delicious char and smoky flavor, especially if you let the chicken caramelize a bit.
Can I use store-bought dips?
Definitely. There’s no shame in picking up ready-made hummus, tzatziki, or baba ganoush if you’re pressed for time. The Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray will still feel homemade and special when you serve it with fresh garnishes and bread.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
The secret is not to overcook the chicken, and to let it rest right after grilling. Marinating with olive oil and lemon also helps lock in moisture, resulting in chicken that’s tender with every bite.
Can I make this Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out regular pita for gluten-free flatbreads or wraps, and double check that all your dips are gluten-free (most standard versions are, but read labels to be sure). All other components are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a colorful, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a mini escape to the Mediterranean, this Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray is truly a must-try. It’s vibrant, customizable, and endlessly satisfying. Gather your favorite people—or just treat yourself—and dig in to this festive feast!
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Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Mezze Tray are a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for a casual gathering or a weeknight meal. Tender marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection served alongside a colorful array of dips, olives, and fresh veggies.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Mezze Tray:
- 1 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup tzatziki
- 1/2 cup baba ganoush (optional)
- 1/2 cup mixed olives (Kalamata & green)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cubes
- Warm pita bread or flatbread wedges
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours refrigerated).
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 10–14 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 75°C / 165°F) and lightly charred. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Arrange the Mezze Tray: On a large serving tray, place small bowls of hummus, tzatziki, and baba ganoush. Arrange olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta around the tray. Add warm pita wedges and drizzle dips lightly with olive oil.
- Serve: Place grilled chicken skewers alongside the mezze tray. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Serve warm with dips and fresh vegetables for a vibrant Mediterranean spread.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
