Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

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🍢 Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

📝 Description

This dish combines juicy, marinated chicken grilled on skewers with a creamy, garlicky hummus spread. It’s inspired by Mediterranean flavors—olive oil, lemon, garlic, and warm spices—making it both fresh and satisfying. Perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or a healthy gathering dish.

🍽️ Servings

Serves: 4 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes (+1–2 hours marination)
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

  • 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cubed)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)
  • Wooden or metal skewers

For the Hummus Spread:

  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained)
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2–3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
  • Salt (to taste)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Cucumber slices
  • Warm pita bread

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices.
  2. Add chicken cubes and coat well.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Prepare Hummus

  1. Blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. Add water gradually until smooth and creamy.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

  1. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers evenly.

Step 4: Cook

  • Grill (preferred): Medium heat for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally
  • OR pan-cook: Use a grill pan on medium-high heat
  • OR bake: 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes

Ensure chicken is fully cooked (internal temp ~75°C / 165°F).

Step 5: Serve

  • Spread hummus on a plate
  • Place hot skewers on top
  • Garnish and serve with pita or salad

💡 Notes

  • Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts.
  • Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents burning.
  • Fresh lemon juice enhances authenticity.

🔥 Tips for Best Results

  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor.
  • Don’t overcrowd skewers—leave small gaps for even cooking.
  • Rest chicken for 2–3 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
  • Add vegetables (bell peppers, onions) to skewers for variety.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 350–400 kcal
  • Protein: 30–35g
  • Carbohydrates: 15–20g
  • Fat: 18–22g
  • Fiber: 4–6g

 Health Benefits

  • High protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety
  • Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil and tahini provide good fats
  • Rich in fiber: Chickpeas aid digestion
  • Low in processed ingredients: Clean, whole-food meal
  • Anti-inflammatory spices: Garlic, cumin, and paprika offer benefits

❓ Q&A

Q1: Can I use store-bought hummus?

Yes, but homemade tastes fresher and allows better control over flavor.

Q2: Can I cook this without a grill?

Absolutely—use an oven or stovetop grill pan.

Q3: How long can leftovers be stored?

Up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

Q4: Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, marinated raw chicken freezes well for up to 2 months.

Q5: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Not fully due to chickpeas, but you can replace hummus with a yogurt-based dip.

Q6: What can I serve with it?

  • Pita bread
  • Rice or couscous
  • Fresh Mediterranean salad

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