If you’re searching for a delicious, healthy, and family-friendly meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare, look no further than Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers with Whole Grain Tabbouleh. Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this dish combines tender chicken marinated in creamy Greek yogurt and herbs, grilled to perfection, and paired with a fiber-rich whole grain tabbouleh salad.
What Makes This Dish So Good?
This meal is not just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients. Greek yogurt is a great source of protein, calcium, and probiotics that help with digestion. Chicken provides lean protein, important for muscle growth and energy. The tabbouleh salad, made with whole grains and fresh vegetables, delivers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s a wholesome, well-rounded dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Health Benefits
One of the main stars of this recipe is Greek yogurt. It’s known for being high in protein and probiotics, which help support gut health and the immune system. Greek yogurt also contains less sugar than traditional yogurt and has a thicker, creamier texture, perfect for marinades.
The chicken in this recipe gives your body essential amino acids and is a lower-fat source of animal protein. Meanwhile, the tabbouleh’s bulgur wheat offers dietary fiber, which helps with digestion, and keeps you feeling full longer. This salad also includes parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice—ingredients packed with vitamins and natural immune-boosting properties.
Precautions: If you are allergic to dairy, you can substitute the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free option like unsweetened coconut yogurt. For gluten-free diets, use quinoa instead of bulgur in the tabbouleh.
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers with Whole Grain Tabbouleh Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden skewers soaked for 30 minutes or metal ones)
For the Whole Grain Tabbouleh:
- 1 cup bulgur wheat (or cooked quinoa for gluten-free version)
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint (optional)
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add in the chicken cubes and coat them well. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Tabbouleh
Place the bulgur wheat in a large bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it sit for 20–25 minutes, or until the bulgur is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Add the chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion to the bulgur. Mix well. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Chill in the fridge while grilling the chicken.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill the skewers for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Step 4: Serve
Serve the chicken skewers hot, alongside a generous helping of the chilled whole grain tabbouleh. This meal is not only satisfying but also beautiful on the plate, with its vibrant colors and fresh aroma.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them to prevent burning.
- You can prepare the tabbouleh a day ahead; it tastes even better after the flavors meld.
- Add a dollop of extra Greek yogurt as a sauce for serving if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe brings a bit of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. It’s light but filling, healthy but satisfying. Best of all, it’s simple enough to make on a weeknight and impressive enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a new family favorite, Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers with Whole Grain Tabbouleh is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Enjoy the bright flavors, vibrant colors, and feel-good nutrients of this balanced and tasty plate.
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