These Lemon Chicken Skewers with Creamy Feta Sauce are bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Marinated in a blend of spices, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled alongside artichokes and asparagus, this dish is perfectly complemented by a tangy, herby feta sauce. It’s a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons plus ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ¼–½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• ⅛–¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated

• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro and/or parsley, chopped

• Crushed red pepper flakes, pinch

• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size chunks

• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes

• 1 (12 ounce) jar marinated artichokes

• 1 bunch asparagus, cut into thirds

Feta Sauce:

• 6 ounces feta cheese

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt

• Juice from 1 lemon

• ¼ cup chopped fresh tender herbs (such as dill, basil, or parsley)

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, cinnamon, 3 cloves garlic, ginger, cilantro, parsley, chili flakes, and salt. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for 15 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the vinaigrette by combining ¼ cup olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, sun-dried tomatoes, 1 clove garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper in a jar. Shake to mix.

3. For the feta sauce, blend feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until creamy. Stir in chopped herbs, smoked paprika, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

4. Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Thread chicken, artichokes, and asparagus pieces onto skewers. Grill until lightly charred and cooked through, turning occasionally, about 10 to 12 minutes. Alternatively, roast at 400°F for 20-30 minutes.

5. Serve skewers with vinaigrette and feta sauce spooned on top. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with naan and extra feta on the side.

Nutrients (Per serving, estimate)

• Calories: 475 kcal

• Protein: ~45g

• Fat: ~28g

• Carbohydrates: ~12g

• Fiber: ~3g

Mediterranean Flavor Profile

The Mediterranean region is renowned for its use of fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and healthy fats like olive oil. This recipe incorporates many of these hallmark elements to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The marinade uses smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon to introduce warmth and a subtle smoky undertone, which balances beautifully with the brightness of lemon juice and the zing of fresh ginger and garlic. Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley add a herbal freshness, while a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes brings a hint of heat that excites the palate without overpowering it. This layered flavor profile exemplifies the best of Mediterranean cooking: wholesome, bold, and well-rounded.

Health Benefits

Aside from its delicious taste, this recipe also offers excellent nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which supports muscle repair and maintenance while being relatively low in fat. The generous use of olive oil, known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, adds beneficial lipids to the dish without excessive calories. Artichokes are a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, contributing to digestive health and immune support. Asparagus is another nutrient powerhouse, high in folate, vitamins A, C, and K, and known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The creamy feta sauce made with Greek yogurt adds a dose of calcium and probiotics, promoting bone health and gut balance. Together, these ingredients make the dish not just flavorful but also nourishing.

Preparation and Cooking Tips

Marinating the chicken is a key step that elevates the dish. The spices and fresh aromatics need time to penetrate the meat, which enhances tenderness and infuses deep flavor. While the recipe suggests a minimum of 15 minutes, marinating overnight will yield even more intense results. The grilling process creates a smoky char that seals in the juices, giving the chicken a slightly crisp exterior and moist interior. Threading the chicken along with artichokes and asparagus onto skewers allows the flavors to mingle as they cook and makes for an attractive presentation. If grilling is not an option, roasting in the oven still produces deliciously cooked chicken and vegetables.

The vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, and sun-dried tomatoes complements the grilled skewers with a touch of acidity and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor experience. The creamy feta sauce is simple to prepare but packs a punch in terms of taste and texture, balancing the smoky heat from the spices with its cool, tangy creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These skewers can stand alone as a satisfying meal or be paired with a variety of sides for a more complete dining experience. Light Mediterranean salads featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onions tossed in lemon and olive oil would complement the dish perfectly. A side of warm pita bread or naan, as suggested, adds a comforting element that helps soak up the delicious sauces. For those looking to add more grains, a fluffy couscous or herbed quinoa salad would work well to round out the meal. Garnishing with fresh herbs, extra crumbled feta, or even a squeeze of lemon juice before serving elevates the dish’s aroma and presentation, making it ideal for entertaining guests or family dinners.

Cultural and Culinary Context

Chicken skewers or kebabs are a staple in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where grilling meats with aromatic spices is a traditional cooking method. This recipe’s use of Calabrian chili, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs showcases the interplay between smoky, spicy, and fresh flavors typical of the region’s culinary heritage. The addition of creamy feta sauce aligns with the Mediterranean love for combining rich dairy with bright citrus and herbs, creating balanced dishes that are both hearty and refreshing. This recipe pays homage to those time-honored traditions while making the cooking process accessible to home cooks.

Variations and Adaptations

While the recipe focuses on chicken breasts, it can easily be adapted to other proteins such as lamb, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjusting the spice levels to taste allows for a milder or hotter dish depending on personal preference. The fresh herbs in the feta sauce can be switched out depending on what’s available, with dill, basil, or mint each bringing their unique aroma and flavor. For a dairy-free option, the feta sauce could be replaced with a tahini-based sauce or a lemon-garlic hummus. Additionally, swapping the artichokes and asparagus for seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can keep the dish fresh year-round.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Skewers with Creamy Feta Sauce represent a perfect harmony of bold Mediterranean flavors and nutritious ingredients that come together to create a meal both vibrant and satisfying. This recipe balances smoky, spicy, tangy, and creamy elements in a way that delights the palate and nourishes the body. Its versatility in preparation and serving makes it ideal for casual dinners, special occasions, or outdoor gatherings. Whether grilled or roasted, these skewers offer an impressive and healthful dish that brings the sunshine and spirit of the Mediterranean right to your table. Embracing fresh herbs, wholesome proteins, and bright citrus flavors, this recipe invites you to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle—one bite at a time.