Fire up the grill and make Father’s Day dinner unforgettable with this classic Chicken Shish Kebab Recipe. Juicy, marinated chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection, delivering bold Mediterranean flavors with a smoky finish that dads love. Whether served with warm pita, fluffy rice, or a fresh summer salad, these kebabs are impressive enough for a celebration yet simple enough for any home cook to master. Perfect for backyard grilling, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for great food and good company.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour (recommended; 30 minutes minimum)
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 8 chicken kebabs
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional for Skewers
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, oregano, coriander, salt, and pepper until smooth. - Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the best flavor and tenderness. - Prepare the Grill
Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. - Assemble the Kebabs
Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onion if desired. Do not overcrowd; leave a little space between pieces for even cooking. - Grill the Kebabs
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). - Rest and Serve
Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Best Practice: Avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling—this keeps the kebabs juicy instead of dry.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
This Chicken Shish Kebab Recipe is the perfect Father’s Day dinner—bold, satisfying, and made for grilling season. The yogurt-based marinade ensures tender, flavorful chicken every time, while the simple preparation keeps things stress-free. Serve these kebabs with rice, grilled vegetables, or warm pita and your favorite sauces for a meal that celebrates Dad with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or a relaxed family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite tradition.
