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Apricot Thyme Chicken Skewers with Creamy Yogurt Sauce

apricot thyme chicken skewers - featured image

Tender and juicy chicken skewers glazed with apricot preserves and fresh thyme, served with a tangy creamy yogurt sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1/2 cup apricot preserves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (2 for marinade, 1 for sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Wooden or metal skewers, soaked if wooden

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, olive oil, lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add chicken chunks to the marinade, coat evenly, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  4. While chicken marinates, mix Greek yogurt with 1 minced garlic clove, honey, ground cumin, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir well and refrigerate until serving.
  5. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  6. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between chunks.
  7. Grill skewers for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and golden glazed, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving warm with the creamy yogurt sauce.

Notes

If apricot glaze darkens too quickly, lower heat to prevent burning. Brush extra apricot preserves mixed with olive oil on chicken during grilling for extra shine and flavor. Yogurt sauce can be made ahead and tastes better after resting. Soak wooden skewers to avoid burning. Use metal skewers for even cooking. Fresh thyme preferred over dried for best flavor. Adjust salt and lemon juice after tasting before skewering.

Nutrition

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