Cypriot Chicken Kebabs

The blend of extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mustard, oregano, garlic, and parsley produces the perfect marinade.

chicken, tomato, red bell pepper, and zucchini kebabs

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These kebabs were inspired by the eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus, which has long been a crossing point between Europe, Asia, and Africa. So it’s not surprising that Cypriot cuisine is a unique blend of many influences.

Tip: Get a jump-start on this great dish by marinating the chicken overnight (marinating the chicken ensures flavorful and juicy kebabs). Then simply assemble the kebabs the following day.

Make it a meal: Serve the kebabs with a garden salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. Add a side of seasoned black beans. All you have to do is sauté some finely chopped green onions and diced tomato along with minced garlic. Mix this with cooked beans and heat through. The result is a healthy, colorful, and appetizing meal.


Cypriot Chicken Kebabs
(Makes 4 servings)

chicken, tomato, red bell pepper, and zucchini kebabs

Kebab Ingredients

  • 12 ounce chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into 12 even pieces
  • 1 zucchini, cut into 8 slices
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 8 pieces
  • 8 cherry tomatoes

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (spicy brown may be substituted)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

  • 12 fresh mint leaves
  • 1 cup frozen peas, cooked
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin
  • Juice of one lemon

Directions

  1. Whisk together marinade ingredients and set aside 1 tablespoon for basting later. In shallow dish, cover chicken with marinade until well coated. Cover and marinate in refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  2. Using four kebab skewers, arrange 3 pieces of chicken and 2 pieces each of zucchini, pepper, and tomatoes per skewer. For easier grilling, start and end each skewer with chicken.
  3. Coat grill lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Place skewers on medium-hot grill. Turn frequently and brush with reserved marinade. Cook for 18-25 minutes or until juices run clean. Cooking time will depend on size of chicken pieces and temperature.*
  4. In meantime, for dressing, place ingredients in food processor or blender. Puree and set aside.
  5. After removing kebabs from grill, let stand 5 minutes. Serve with dressing on side.

*An alternative cooking method is to preheat oven to 400°F. Place skewers on shallow baking dish on center rack. Bake 10 minutes. Baste and turn over, baste and bake for additional 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving


Calories: 200
Total fat: 8 g
Saturated fat: <1 g
Carbohydrate: 10 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 21 g
Sodium: 105 g

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