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Flavorful Lebanese Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Garlic Sauce

lebanese chicken kebabs - featured image

Tender and juicy Lebanese chicken kebabs marinated in warm spices and lemon, served with a smooth, tangy creamy garlic sauce made from Greek yogurt. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper
  • Serving suggestions: pita bread or warm flatbreads, fresh cucumber slices or simple salad, pickled turnips or olives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, allspice, salt, and pepper until combined. Add chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
  2. Make the creamy garlic sauce: Combine Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Prepare the grill: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil grates or pan to prevent sticking. Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes if using.
  4. Assemble the kebabs: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, packing snugly but not too tight.
  5. Grill the kebabs: Place skewers on grill and cook about 5-6 minutes per side until nicely charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip carefully to avoid pieces falling off.
  6. Rest and serve: Let kebabs rest off heat for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top. Serve with warm pita and creamy garlic sauce.

Notes

Marinate chicken overnight for best flavor and tenderness. Use metal skewers for safety and sturdiness. Let kebabs rest after grilling to keep juices locked in. The creamy garlic sauce can be made a day ahead to deepen flavor. For dairy-free sauce, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and add tahini.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lebanese chicken kebabs, creamy garlic sauce, grilled chicken, Middle Eastern recipe, easy chicken kebabs, healthy chicken recipe