The moment I fire up the grill, my backyard transforms into a haven of delicious aromas and sizzling delights. The first time I combined zesty lemon, smoky paprika, and creamy feta, the explosion of flavors was nothing short of magical. As the chicken skewers cooked to perfection, the sweet scent of charred corn filled the air, instantly whisking me away to summer barbecues and carefree gatherings.
This Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers with Charred Corn recipe is the perfect antidote to your usual weeknight dinners, elevating simple ingredients into a vibrant feast. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about crafting memorable experiences with every bite. In just over ten minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping meal on your table, bringing everyone together to savor the rich flavors and refreshing salad. So, whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a go-to favorite!
Why will you love Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers?
Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon and smoky paprika create a delightful harmony that’s bursting with taste.
Quick and Easy: In just 10-12 minutes, you can serve up a gourmet meal that impresses without the stress.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
Fresh and Vibrant: The charred corn salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the juicy chicken skewers beautifully.
Healthier Alternative: Say goodbye to fast food! This recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that are good for you.
Versatile Dish: Switch up the veggies or add your favorite herbs for a personalized twist—explore more variations to make it uniquely yours!
Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers Ingredients
These ingredients will help you create a mouthwatering masterpiece!
For the Marinade
- Extra virgin olive oil – adds richness and helps to tenderize the chicken.
- Tomato paste – brings depth and a touch of sweetness to the marinade.
- Garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic flavors that enhance every bite.
- Lemon zest – adds a fresh, citrusy note that brightens the chicken skewers.
- Lemon juice – helps balance flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
- Smoked paprika – gives a lovely smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon.
- Onion powder – a subtle way to add extra savory goodness.
- Cayenne pepper – provides a hint of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Honey – balances flavors with a touch of sweetness, enhancing the marinade’s complexity.
- Kosher salt and black pepper – essential for seasoning and bringing the flavors together.
For the Skewers
- Chicken breasts or thighs – juicy and tender, perfect for grilling; cut into bite-sized chunks for easy skewering.
For the Corn Salad
- Corn on the cob – fresh, sweet, and grilled to perfection for a delightful char.
- Avocado – adds creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing your salad’s texture.
- Chopped green onions – provide a mild, oniony crunch that brightens the dish.
- Mixed herbs (cilantro, basil, oregano) – brings vibrant, herbaceous flavors that complement the skewers wonderfully.
For the Feta Sauce
- Feta cheese – crumbled for that creamy, tangy richness that pulls all flavors together.
- Plain Greek yogurt – adds a smooth texture and a healthy tang to the sauce.
- Grated garlic – for an extra layer of depth in the feta sauce; mix until smooth for best results.
With these delicious Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a scrumptious dish that truly elevates a simple meal into something extraordinary!
How to Make Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers
-
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, tomato paste, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the chicken chunks, tossing to coat them thoroughly in the flavorful marinade.
-
Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, ensuring they fit snugly but not too tightly. This allows them to cook evenly, achieving that ideal charred texture.
-
Grill the Skewers and Corn: Set your grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers and corn on the cob until they’re lightly charred and cooked through, turning them occasionally for about 10 to 12 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden-brown color on the chicken!
-
Make the Feta Sauce: While the skewers are grilling, combine the crumbled feta, plain Greek yogurt, grated garlic, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting flavors as needed.
-
Toss the Corn Salad: Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the cob and mix it with chopped avocado, green onions, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This crunchy, fresh salad complements the skewers perfectly!
-
Serve Together: Plate the grilled chicken skewers alongside the charred corn salad and the creamy feta sauce for dipping. Your guests will fall in love with the delightful combination!
Optional: Garnish with extra herbs for a pop of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers
Marinating Matters: A longer marinating time infuses more flavor into the chicken. Consider letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
Skewer Smart: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking. This prevents some from overcooking while others are underdone.
Watch the Grill: Keep a close eye on the skewers while grilling. They can go from perfectly charred to burnt in just moments!
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the salt and cayenne pepper to your taste. You can easily lower the heat or spice levels depending on your crowd’s preferences.
Fresh is Best: Use seasonal corn and ripe avocados for the salad. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and provide that vibrant flavor you crave!
Serve Immediately: These Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, so plan to serve them right away for optimal taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers with Charred Corn are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in the flavorful mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate for a tastier result. Additionally, you can grill the corn and prepare the corn salad up to 3 days ahead; store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes and toss everything together. This meal prep approach ensures your dish is just as delicious while making your hectic evenings a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store any leftover grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they’ve cooled to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: If you have extra skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your stored Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Corn Salad Storage: Store the corn salad separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers Variations
Feel free to take this recipe and make it your own—there are endless ways to enjoy it!
-
Herb-Infused: Swap the mixed herbs for fresh dill or parsley to give the dish a unique twist on flavor.
-
Spicy Heat: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick that amplifies the boldness.
-
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lime juice and zest in place of lemon for a fresh, tangy alternative that brightens every bite.
-
Creamy Dream: Replace the Greek yogurt with sour cream for a richer, tangy feta sauce that perfectly complements the skewers.
-
Veggie Delight: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skewers to enhance the colorful presentation and provide even more crunch.
-
Smoky Touch: Use smoked feta cheese instead of regular feta for a deeper, more robust flavor that will have your guests raving.
-
Grain Bowl: Serve the chicken skewers over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, topping with the corn salad for a filling, nutritious meal.
-
Tangy Dressing: Drizzle a balsamic reduction or a lemon vinaigrette over the entire dish before serving to elevate the taste experience.
What to Serve with Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers?
Elevate your backyard barbecues with delightful pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of your meal.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture adds comfort and a richness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy feta sauce.
-
Garlic Bread: This toasty delight complements the smoky flavors, making every bite a delicious experience.
-
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Bursting with fresh veggies and herbs, this salad offers a light, refreshing option that harmonizes with your skewers.
-
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus carries a wonderful char, enhancing the summer vibe of your meal.
-
Cucumber Mint Salad: The crispness of cucumber and the freshness of mint provide a cool and zesty contrast to the warm skewers.
-
Peach Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened iced tea brings a refreshing sweetness to balance the smoky and savory flavors of the dish.
-
Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal on a bright note with this icy treat that echoes the zesty lemon notes in the chicken skewers.
With these pairings, you can create a vibrant and satisfying spread that everyone will crave again and again!
Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Chicken Skewers?
You’ll want to use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner. Both work wonderfully, so choose based on your preference!
How long can I store leftover chicken skewers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain their texture.
Can I freeze the Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! If you have extra skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes!
What if my chicken skewers are dry after cooking?
To avoid dry chicken skewers, make sure not to overcook them. Using a meat thermometer can help; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C). Also, marinating the chicken longer (at least 30 minutes if time allows) ensures it’s juicy and full of flavor.
How should I store the corn salad?
For best results, store the corn salad separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to add the avocado right before serving to preserve its freshness and creamy texture.
Can my pets share any of these ingredients?
While grilled chicken without seasoning is generally safe for pets, keep in mind that the marinade includes garlic and other seasonings, which are not safe for them. It’s best to prepare plain chicken for your furry friends while keeping the seasoned skewers to enjoy yourself!
Lemon Feta Paprika Chicken Skewers with Charred Corn Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, tomato paste, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the chicken chunks, tossing to coat them thoroughly in the flavorful marinade.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, ensuring they fit snugly but not too tightly.
- Grill the Skewers and Corn: Set your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers and corn on the cob until they're lightly charred and cooked through, turning them occasionally for about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Make the Feta Sauce: While the skewers are grilling, combine the crumbled feta, plain Greek yogurt, grated garlic, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Toss the Corn Salad: Once the corn is grilled, remove it from the cob and mix it with chopped avocado, green onions, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Serve Together: Plate the grilled chicken skewers alongside the charred corn salad and the creamy feta sauce for dipping.