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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kabobs - Bright, Savory, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.25-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% preferred for tenderness)
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into 1.25-inch chunks (optional)
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • 8–10 metal or soaked wooden skewers

Method
 

  1. Prep the skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20–30 minutes so they don’t scorch on the grill or in the oven.
  2. Marinate the chicken. In a large bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Heat your cooking method. For grilling, preheat to medium-high heat (about 400–425°F). For oven roasting, preheat to 425°F and line a sheet pan with foil or parchment. Set a wire rack on the pan if you have one for better air circulation.
  4. Assemble the kabobs. Thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with onion and bell pepper if using. Avoid packing too tightly so heat can circulate and brown the edges.
  5. Cook on the grill. Place skewers on the grates. Cook 10–12 minutes total, turning every 3–4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred in spots. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  6. Or roast in the oven. Arrange skewers on the prepared pan. Roast 12–16 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken hits 165°F and edges are golden.
  7. Finish and serve. Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Serve hot.