Lemon Basil Chicken Skewers (Mini-Size)
Bright, fresh, and so juicy, these lemon basil chicken skewers are everything I want in a summer appy. The chicken is marinated in a citrus yogurt mixture which tenderizes the chicken and makes it incredibly juicy. I love serving this chicken with a side of herby yogurt dip which takes it to the top for me!
Ingredients
For The Chicken:
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh mint
- 1 lemon, zested and then juiced
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (or chicken breast), cut into 1-inch cubes
For The Herb Yogurt Dip
- ½ cup grated cucumber
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
For The Chicken
- In a food processor, start by placing the yogurt, basil, mint, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Pulse for a few seconds until well combined and smooth. Scrape the sides and pulse a few more times.
- Place the yogurt marinade and chicken pieces in a resealable bag or container. Mix together until chicken is well coated. Seal and place in the refrigerator. Let marinade for 6-12 hours.
- If using wood skewers, be sure to soak them at least 30 minutes before grilling. You don't need to do this step if using metal skewers.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grease the grill grates. Thread the chicken onto the skewers, about 2 pieces or so per skewer, making sure not to place the pieces of chicken too close together or they will not full cook through.
- Place the chicken skewers onto the grill and grill 4-5 minutes per side, or until chicken is fully cooked through. Remove from grill and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
For The Herb Yogurt Dip
- Place the cucumber into a paper towel or cheese cloth and squeeze out any liquid. Place into a bowl with remaining yogurt dip ingredients. Mix until well combined. Transfer to a serving dish and serve alongside chicken skewers.