Mediterranean Chicken and Spinach Skewers

These Mediterranean Chicken and Spinach Skewers bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coast directly to your dinner table. Tender chunks of marinated chicken breast are threaded onto skewers with fresh spinach leaves, creating a beautiful presentation that's as nutritious as it is delicious. The marinade features classic Mediterranean ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, which infuse the chicken with bright, aromatic flavors while keeping it incredibly moist during cooking. Inspired by the traditional souvlaki and kebab dishes found throughout Greece, Turkey, and the Levant, these skewers represent the heart of Mediterranean cooking: simple, fresh ingredients prepared with care. The addition of spinach not only adds a pop of color but also provides a boost of iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. When grilled or broiled, the spinach leaves develop a slight char that adds a pleasant smoky note to complement the savory chicken. What makes this recipe particularly special is its versatility and speed. In just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality meal that fits perfectly within the Mediterranean Diet's emphasis on lean proteins, healthy fats, and abundant vegetables. The skewers can be served alongside a crisp Greek salad, warm whole wheat pita, or a simple quinoa pilaf for a complete and satisfying dinner. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without sacrificing flavor, and it's equally impressive for casual entertaining. The skewers can be prepared on an outdoor grill during warmer months or under the broiler year-round, making it a reliable recipe for any season.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbsboneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 4 cupsfresh spinach leaves, washed and dried, stems removed
• 3 tbspextra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbspfresh lemon juice
• 3 clovesgarlic, minced
• 1 tspdried oregano
• 1 tspdried basil
• 3/4 tspsalt
• 1/2 tspblack pepper, freshly ground
• 4 wedgeslemon wedges, for serving optional
• 2 tbspfresh parsley, chopped, for garnish optional

Method

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. 0:04
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper until well combined. 0:05
3. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Let marinate for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the spinach. 0:05
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or position an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler and preheat the broiler on high. 0:04
5. Thread the marinated chicken and spinach leaves onto the skewers, alternating between a piece of chicken and 2-3 folded spinach leaves. Each skewer should have about 4-5 pieces of chicken. 0:06
6. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil or line a baking sheet with foil and lightly oil it if using the broiler. Place the skewers on the grill or baking sheet. 0:05
7. Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The spinach will wilt and char slightly. 0:06
8. Remove the skewers from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. 0:05