Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

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Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread have always meant more than dinner — they remind me of sunny Sunday afternoons, grilled chicken filling the air with bold, smoky aroma, and everyone dipping bites into a creamy bowl of hummus. Our table blended flavors from across the Mediterranean, with skewers always at the center.

While the chicken brought the char, it was the hummus that tied it all together — garlicky, smooth, and perfect with every bite. Over time, I added smoked paprika, oregano, and lemon to brighten things up. Parsley gives it that final fresh finish.

These days, we love serving it with Greek-style loaded hummus bowls for gatherings, or with flaky Mediterranean spinach and feta crisps when it’s just the two of us.

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Why This Recipe Hits Every Note Just Right

There’s something effortlessly satisfying about Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread — they strike a perfect balance between bold and fresh, hearty and light. From the first bite, the flavors are layered and comforting. The chicken is juicy, thanks to an olive oil and lemon marinade that keeps it tender while adding brightness. Garlic and spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano give it that unmistakable Mediterranean depth.

What really sets this dish apart is how every element works together. The hummus isn’t just a dip — it’s the creamy, earthy base that catches every flavorful drip from the grilled chicken. Add a swirl of olive oil, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and a touch of chopped parsley, and it transforms into a spread worthy of any mezze platter.

Then come the vibrant touches: warm, pillowy pita bread ready for scooping, crisp cucumber slices, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny kalamata olives. Crumbled feta adds just the right amount of saltiness, giving the plate both flavor and visual pop.

It’s the kind of dish you can serve at a dinner party and still find yourself making for a quick weeknight meal. For something heartier, try pairing it with these stuffed sweet potatoes with spinach, mushroom & feta. And if you’re craving a hint of heat and indulgence, melty blackberry jalapeño stuffed chicken makes a surprising companion.

From the charred edges of the skewers to the creamy swirl of hummus underneath, this meal delivers a vibrant blend of textures and flavors. It’s Mediterranean cooking at its most approachable — simple, colorful, and absolutely crave-worthy.

Ingredients & Preparation for Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

Creating Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread at home is simpler than you might think — but each ingredient plays an important role in building that vibrant, balanced flavor. Whether you’re using pantry staples or picking up a few fresh items, the preparation is quick, rewarding, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need for both the skewers and the hummus spread:

 Chicken Skewers

 Hummus Spread & Garnish

 For Serving

• • Warm pita bread

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved

  • Cucumber slices

  • Kalamata olives

  • Crumbled feta cheese

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These add-ins make each bite more refreshing and elevate the full spread to a complete meal.

Tools & Smart Substitutions

This dish is low on equipment but high on flavor. Here’s what you’ll need — and how to work around it if you’re short on tools or ingredients.

Tools You’ll Want:

• Mixing bowl for marinating chicken

• Grill or grill pan (outdoor or stovetop)

• Tongs for turning skewers

• Knife and cutting board

• Platter or large serving dish

Don’t have a grill? No problem. A stovetop grill pan works beautifully. Even a cast iron skillet can give you a nice sear if that’s what you have.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer bite

• Lime juice if you’re out of lemon

• Greek yogurt-based dip as a hummus alternative

• Za’atar or thyme for a different herb note

• Chili flakes if you like extra heat

Feel free to customize the toppings as well. Add pickled onions, shredded lettuce, or roasted red peppers to mix things up. When we’re feeling adventurous, we pair this dish with roasted eggplant boats for an earthy contrast, or go rich with this chicken and mushroom skillet in creamy asiago mustard sauce.

Cooking Instructions & Tips for Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

Nothing beats the smell of chicken sizzling on the grill, especially when it’s been marinated in olive oil, garlic, and lemon. The beauty of Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread is in how simple they are to cook — but the flavor payoff is tremendous.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Once ready, thread the chicken onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush with a bit of oil to keep the chicken from sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is nicely charred and fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F).

Step 5: Assemble the Plate
Spread a generous layer of hummus on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle smoked paprika, and top with chopped parsley. Lay the hot skewers directly on top.

Step 6: Add Sides and Serve
Arrange warm pita bread, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta around the hummus. Serve immediately and let everyone build their own bites.

Tips & Tricks to Nail It Every Time

• Marinate longer for richer flavor: Even 30 minutes will do, but 2–4 hours really makes the spices sing.

• Cut chicken evenly: Uniform cubes help everything cook at the same speed.

• Soak skewers fully: 20–30 minutes in water prevents burning on the grill.

• Use a meat thermometer: Don’t guess — 165°F internal temp is the sweet spot for juicy chicken.

• Layer the hummus thickly: It’s not just a dip — it’s a flavor base, so don’t skimp!

Want to get even more creative? Pair these skewers with a chilled watermelon salad with cucumber and feta — the sweet and salty contrast is pure Mediterranean magic. Or add a fresh side like this Mediterranean tuna salad for a protein-packed meal that feels like summer on a plate.

Serving, Storing & Pairing Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

There’s a beautiful versatility to Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread — they’re a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for dinner parties, but just as perfect for a casual weeknight meal or meal prep lunch. Whether you’re assembling a full mezze platter or enjoying it with minimal extras, the serving possibilities are endless.

What to Serve with It

Start with a generous smear of hummus on each plate, top with hot grilled skewers, and surround the dish with fresh, crunchy sides. I love layering the platter with warm pita triangles, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, briny kalamata olives, and a scattering of crumbled feta. It’s simple, colorful, and perfectly satisfying.

To make it feel like a full Mediterranean feast, pair this dish with a cold, crisp salad — something like this refreshing watermelon salad with cucumber and feta that brings sweetness and brightness to balance the savory spices. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more substantial, this vibrant Mediterranean tuna salad adds heartiness and keeps things in the same flavor family.

You can also:

• Grill extra veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or red onions

• Add a scoop of tabbouleh or couscous salad

• Serve alongside stuffed grape leaves or roasted chickpeas

Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon over everything right before serving — it wakes up all the flavors and ties the plate together beautifully.

How to Store and Reheat

This recipe stores surprisingly well, making it great for prepping ahead or enjoying leftovers the next day.

Storing Tips:

• Chicken: Store leftover skewers (removed from sticks) in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

• Hummus: Keep any extra hummus sealed in the fridge for up to a week.

• Veggies and sides: Store toppings separately to keep them crisp.

Reheating Tips:

• Skillet Method: For best results, reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until warmed through.

• Microwave Option: If you’re short on time, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot, but cover to prevent drying.

• Avoid reheating hummus — just serve it cold or at room temperature.

Want to take leftovers up a notch? Slice the chicken and wrap it in a warm pita with fresh toppings and hummus for an easy Mediterranean-style wrap. I’ve even tossed leftover chicken into a grain bowl with cucumbers, olives, and a dollop of hummus on top — it’s a fast lunch that still feels special.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs offer more fat, which makes them extra juicy and flavorful when grilled. Just trim any excess fat and follow the same marinating and grilling process.

2. What’s the best way to make hummus from scratch?
If you’re going homemade, blend 1 can of chickpeas, 2 tablespoons tahini, 1 clove garlic, juice of 1 lemon, and olive oil until smooth. Add water as needed for consistency. Top with smoked paprika and parsley before serving.

3. Can I cook these skewers indoors?
Yes! A stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet works well. Just be sure to cook over medium-high heat and turn occasionally for even charring.

4. Is this dish good for meal prep?
It’s ideal! Store the cooked chicken separately from the veggies and hummus. Everything stays fresh for up to 4 days, and it makes for quick Mediterranean bowls or wraps.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Simply skip the feta or use a plant-based feta substitute. The hummus and veggies are naturally dairy-free.

6. What if I don’t have skewers?
No skewers? No problem. You can grill or pan-fry the chicken cubes as-is. Just flip them to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply satisfying about putting a dish like Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Hummus Spread on the table. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together — colorful, wholesome, and bursting with bold flavor. From the smoky grilled chicken to the creamy, garlicky hummus and crisp, vibrant toppings, every bite offers a little taste of sunshine.

What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or meal-prepping for busy weekdays, it never feels like a compromise. And if you’re in the mood to explore even more variations, you’ll love these stuffed sweet potatoes with spinach, mushroom, and feta — they pair beautifully with the same lemony flavor palette. Or, keep things light with a zesty Mediterranean tuna salad that offers protein and crunch in every forkful.

For even more Mediterranean inspiration, I’ve always admired how Jessica Gavin brings balance to the same flavor profile. Her Greek-style chicken skewers and hummus recipe is another beautiful spin worth bookmarking.

In the end, cooking isn’t just about feeding yourself — it’s about feeding joy, creating memories, and turning everyday ingredients into something worth savoring. I hope these skewers become a new favorite in your kitchen too.