🍋 Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bites with Garlic Yogurt Sauce 🧄
Description
These Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Bites are bursting with bright lemon, aromatic herbs, and smoky grilled flavor — perfectly balanced by a cool, creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Juicy marinated chicken cubes are seared or grilled until golden and tender, then dipped in a refreshing sauce that’s tangy, garlicky, and irresistibly smooth.
This healthy and flavorful dish captures the essence of the Mediterranean diet — light, vibrant, and wholesome — and is ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining guests.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- Zest + juice of ½ lemon
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve. - Cook the Chicken:
- Grill method: Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers or place directly on the grill. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Skillet method: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Serve:
Plate the chicken bites and drizzle or serve with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes & Tips
- For the juiciest chicken: Use chicken thighs instead of breast if preferred — they’re naturally more tender.
- Marinating tip: The longer you marinate (up to 2 hours), the more flavorful and tender the chicken becomes.
- Add veggies: Thread chicken with bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for colorful skewers.
- Make it smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or grill over charcoal for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm pita bread, rice pilaf, or couscous.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or quinoa.
- Use leftovers in wraps, bowls, or on top of salads.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate, based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~260 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg |
Benefits
✅ High in lean protein – great for energy and muscle repair
✅ Mediterranean diet–friendly – full of heart-healthy fats and herbs
✅ Low-carb & keto-friendly
✅ Packed with flavor without heavy sauces or additives
✅ Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Great for meal prep and versatile for wraps, salads, or bowls
Q&A
Q: Can I cook this in the air fryer?
A: Yes! Cook marinated chicken bites at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely — substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.
Q: How can I make this spicier?
A: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of harissa to the marinade.
Q: Can I prep it ahead of time?
A: Yes! Marinate the chicken the night before and refrigerate. The longer marination enhances flavor.
Q: What’s the best side dish for this recipe?
A: It pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, Mediterranean couscous, or a cucumber-tomato salad.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A: Definitely! They stay even juicier and add extra richness to the dish.
Q: How long does the sauce keep?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container — stir before serving.