Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

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Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

A fresh, protein-rich Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring juicy spiced chicken skewers served over a creamy hummus base. It’s bright, smoky, and perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.

🍽️ Description

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread combines marinated grilled chicken with classic Mediterranean spices like cumin, paprika, garlic, and lemon. The chicken is skewered and grilled until lightly charred, then served over smooth hummus, often topped with olive oil, herbs, and fresh vegetables.

It’s balanced, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free.

🧾 Ingredients

Chicken Skewers

  • 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into cubes)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp coriander powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Hummus Spread

  • 1½ cups cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained)
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 3–4 tbsp olive oil
  • 2–4 tbsp cold water (for creaminess)
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: pinch of cumin

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro
  • Cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Cucumber slices
  • Olive oil drizzle
  • Paprika or chili flakes

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.
  2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.
  3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 6 hours for best flavor).

2. Prepare Hummus

  1. Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. Slowly add olive oil and water until smooth and creamy.
  3. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble Skewers

  1. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
  2. Preheat grill, grill pan, or oven (200°C / 400°F).
  3. Cook skewers for 10–15 minutes, turning until fully cooked and lightly charred.

4. Serve

  1. Spread hummus on a plate or bowl.
  2. Place hot chicken skewers on top or beside it.
  3. Add toppings and drizzle olive oil.

💡 Notes

  • Chicken thighs give juicier results than breast.
  • You can cook skewers in an air fryer at 190°C for ~12 minutes.
  • Homemade hummus enhances flavor, but store-bought works for convenience.
  • Soak wooden skewers for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.

🧠 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t skip marination—it’s key for flavor depth.
  • Avoid overcrowding skewers; leave small gaps for even cooking.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne if you want heat.
  • Let chicken rest 3–5 minutes after cooking for juiciness.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 3–4 people
  • Makes: ~10–12 skewers

🔬 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 380–450 kcal
  • Protein: 32–38g
  • Carbohydrates: 18–25g
  • Fat: 18–22g
  • Fiber: 5–7g
  • Sugar: 2–4g

(Values vary based on portion size and oil usage.)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High protein supports muscle repair and satiety
  • Healthy fats from olive oil and tahini support heart health
  • Chickpeas provide fiber for digestion and gut health
  • Anti-inflammatory spices (turmeric, garlic, cumin)
  • Balanced macronutrients make it suitable for weight management

❓ Q&A

Q1: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q2: Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Marinate chicken overnight and store hummus separately for up to 3 days.

Q3: What can I serve with it?

Pita bread, rice, quinoa, or a simple Greek salad.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free and gluten-free?

It already is naturally both—just ensure store-bought hummus has no additives.

Q5: Can I replace chicken?

Yes. Try tofu, shrimp, or lamb for variations.

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