When I first tried these Lemon Basil Chicken Kebabs, I was blown away by the burst of flavors in every bite. The zesty lemon paired beautifully with fragrant basil and creamy yogurt, making a marinade so good, I couldn’t stop myself from stealing little tastes before grilling.

They’re easy to make and versatile enough to enjoy year-round. Whether it’s a relaxing family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these kebabs are bound to be a hit! You can also enjoy similar recipes like Italian Chicken Skewers for more flavorful options.

Ingredients for the Perfect Kebabs

Everything you need for these flavorful kebabs is listed below, complete with simple measurements and tips.

1 cup plain full-fat yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the marinade.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle, warming spice in each bite.
1 tablespoon honey: Balances the tangy yogurt and lemon with a hint of sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a savory depth.
1 large lemon (juice and zest): The zest and juice bring a bright, zesty kick.
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Infuses freshness into every bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Lends richness and helps the chicken cook perfectly.
2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes: Absorbs all the marinade flavors while staying juicy.

Note: Serves 4. Adjust quantities as needed based on your group size.

Flavorful Variations to Try

Looking for customized options? Here’s how you can switch things up

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to make the kebabs even more tender.
Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a tangier twist with a thicker consistency.
Fresh Herbs: Replace basil with mint or parsley for a slightly different flavor. For instance, you might enjoy trying Lemon Greek Marinated Chicken Kabobs for a Mediterranean twist.

Cooking Time Breakdown

Making these kebabs fits into even the busiest schedules! Here’s the time you’ll need:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 24 hours
Total Time: 1 day and 25 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all the equipment to make your cooking seamless.

Food Processor: Ensures the marinade blends smoothly.
Metal or Wooden Skewers: Holds the chicken securely. (If using wooden skewers, soak them for 30 mins so they don’t burn.)
Grill or Cast-Iron Pan: Perfect for getting that lovely charred flavor.

How to Make Lemon Basil Chicken Kebabs?

Making these kebabs is as simple as prepping the marinade, skewering the chicken, and grilling to perfection.

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavorful Marinade

Start by blending yogurt, lemon juice, zest, honey, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper in a food processor until silky smooth. Once done, drizzle in the olive oil and give it a quick stir to combine. I recommend tasting the marinade here to balance salt or sweetness if needed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking. Place the pieces in a Ziploc bag or bowl with a cover, and pour the marinade over them. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow all the vibrant flavors to infuse the chicken.

Step 3: Get Skewers & Chicken Grill-Ready

Don’t forget to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if you’re using them. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces to ensure even cooking when grilled.

Step 4: Grill Them to Golden Perfection

Heat your grill to medium-high and prep the grates by oiling them lightly to prevent sticking. Cook the kebabs for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Tips for Making the Recipe Easier and Better

Here’s how I make sure these kebabs turn out perfect every single time:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and basil elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Leave Gaps Between Chicken Cubes: It prevents uneven cooking, ensuring every cube turns out perfectly.
Keep an Eye While Grilling: Chicken cooks quickly, and just a couple of extra minutes on the grill can make it dry.

How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Kebabs?

Presentation is key, even for simple dishes! I love to arrange the kebabs on a large serving platter and garnish them with a few fresh basil sprigs for an extra pop of color. These kebabs are fabulous alongside a fluffy rice pilaf or a refreshing cucumber salad. For a bright finish, sprinkle a pinch of freshly chopped mint or drizzle some lemon juice over the top just before serving.

Nutritional Information

These kebabs are as wholesome as they are flavorful! Here’s a per-serving breakdown:

Calories: 220
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 12g

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Follow these simple storage ideas for hassle-free cooking and leftovers.

Refrigeration

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours before grilling. Leftover kebabs keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling for ease.

Why You’ll Be Hooked on This Recipe?

With so many perks, these kebabs are hard to resist! Here’s why you’ll love making them again and again:

Bursting with Flavor: The basil, lemon, and yogurt marinade creates layers of mouthwatering flavor.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy for this dish, yet the results are extraordinary.
Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to cooking, the clear steps are easy to follow.
Customizable Options: Adapt it to your dietary preferences or play around with herbs and sides to make it your own.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, these kebabs fit right in!

Lemon Basil Chicken Kebabs are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. With bold, fresh flavors and a method so simple, they’re destined to be a crowd favorite at your table. Be ready to impress and enjoy every juicy, zesty bite! Explore more dinner recipes for inspiration.