Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Skewers

Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Skewers

Mia

These Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Skewers bring the vibrant flavors of the Greek islands to your Optavia-friendly dinner table. Tender chicken breast cubes are marinated in a fragrant blend of lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, then grilled to perfection for a protein-packed centerpiece that's both satisfying and light.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. The marinade infuses the lean chicken with aromatic notes of oregano and basil while keeping the calorie count remarkably low. Paired with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce made with non-fat Greek yogurt and a crisp cucumber salad, this meal delivers the complete Mediterranean experience without compromising your dietary goals.

Perfect for the Optavia 'Lean & Green' protocol, this recipe provides approximately 30 grams of lean protein per serving with minimal carbohydrates and fat. The non-starchy vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and satisfying crunch, while the tzatziki provides a creamy contrast that makes every bite feel indulgent. Whether you're grilling outdoors or using an indoor grill pan, these skewers are ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss.

This dish celebrates the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet principles while adhering strictly to Optavia guidelines. It's a testament to how flavorful and exciting healthy eating can be when you focus on quality ingredients, proper seasoning, and cooking techniques that enhance natural flavors without adding unnecessary calories.

Mia

Mia

Recipe Author: Welcome to Mia's Kitchen, where every recipe is plant-forward, anti-inflammatory, and full of flavor. Her meals make it easy to eat well, support gut health, and enjoy balanced, wholesome cooking at home.

Nutrition

30 minutes
None servings
245 calories
Fat 3.50g
Carbs 11.00g
Protein 42.00g

Ingredients

1.5 lbsboneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tbspfresh lemon juice
3 clovesgarlic, minced
1 tspdried oregano
1 tspdried basil
1/2 tspsalt
1/4 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
1 cupnon-fat plain Greek yogurt
1 mediumcucumber, divided - half grated, half diced
2 tbspfresh dill, chopped
1 clovegarlic, minced (for tzatziki)
1 tbspred wine vinegar
2 cupscherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cupred onion, thinly sliced
2 tbspfresh parsley, chopped
cooking spray, for grill

Equipment

Cutting board
Whisk
tongs
chef's knife
kitchen towel or paper towels
meat thermometer
measuring cups and spoons
wooden or metal skewers
grill or grill pan
grater
mixing bowls (medium and small)

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Supports anti-inflammatory eating with lean protein, fresh herbs like oregano and basil, and low-inflammatory ingredients. The use of fresh vegetables, herbs, and minimal processed components makes this a perfect anti-inflammatory meal choice.

Clean Eating

Exemplifies clean eating with whole, minimally processed ingredients like fresh chicken, herbs, vegetables, and simple seasonings. The recipe avoids artificial additives, focusing on natural, recognizable whole foods prepared simply.

Low-Carb Diet

Ideal for low-carb diets with only 4-5g net carbs per serving, featuring lean protein from chicken breast, non-starchy vegetables, and minimal carbohydrate ingredients. The recipe avoids grains and high-carb foods while providing satisfying, flavorful nutrition.

Mediterranean Diet

This recipe perfectly embodies Mediterranean Diet principles with lean chicken, fresh herbs, olive oil, and a focus on whole foods. The use of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking while providing a balanced, nutrient-dense meal.

Optavia

Perfectly aligned with Optavia's 'Lean & Green' protocol, this recipe provides approximately 30g of lean protein, uses non-starchy vegetables, and maintains a low-calorie profile while delivering maximum flavor and nutritional value.

Instructions

1

In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together to create the marinade.

2 min
2

Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

15 min
3

While chicken marinates, prepare the tzatziki sauce. Grate half of the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

3 min
4

In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, chopped dill, minced garlic (1 clove), 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir well to combine.

2 min
5

Prepare the cucumber salad by combining the remaining diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and red wine vinegar in a medium bowl. Toss gently and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

3 min
6

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking.

5 min
7

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly coat the grill grates with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

5 min
8
10 min

Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The chicken should have nice grill marks and be golden brown.

9

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2 minutes.

3 min
10

Serve the grilled chicken skewers alongside the cucumber salad and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with remaining fresh dill if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions