Harissa Chicken Skewers with Veggies (Gluten-Free & High-Protein)
These flavourful Harissa Marinated Chicken Skewers are loaded with juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and a smoky-spicy yogurt marinade, perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein dinner.
- Suitable for diets:
- Gluten Free
- Heart-Healthy
- High-Protein
- Ketogenic
- Low-Carb
- Nut-Free
- Soy-Free
Servings:
Why Diabetes Friendly?
- Lean protein from chicken supports blood sugar regulation and satiety.
- Non-starchy vegetables (pepper, onion, zucchini) are low-glycemic and high in fibre.
- Healthy fats from olive oil and yogurt help slow glucose absorption.
- No added sugar or high-carb sauces, and portion-controlled with balanced macros.
- Harissa and spices add bold flavour without relying on salt or sugar.
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Equipment
- Grill or oven
- Metal or wooden skewers
- Mixing bowl or zip-top bag ((for marinating))
- Basting brush ((optional))
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- harissa paste 2 tbsp
- Greek yogurt (plain) 1 tbsp
- olive oil 1 tbsp
- garlic clove (minced) 1
- lemon (juiced) 1/2
- smoked paprika ½ tsp
- salt ⅛ tsp
- pepper (to taste) 1 pinch
For the skewers:
- chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes) 2
- red onion (small, cut into chunks) 1
- red bell pepper (cut into chunks) 1
- zucchini (sliced) 1 small
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wood, soak in water 20 min)
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Cooking Tips
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (safe internal temp).
- Marinate overnight for maximum flavour—especially great for meal prepping.
- Add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for variety.
- For spicier skewers, choose hot harissa paste or add more cayenne.
- Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.
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Instructions
- In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours for deeper flavour).2 tbsp harissa paste, 1 tbsp Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 garlic clove, 1/2 lemon, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ⅛ tsp salt, 1 pinch pepper
- Thread chicken, bell pepper, onion, and zucchini onto skewers, alternating pieces.2 chicken breasts, 1 red onion, 1 red bell pepper, 1 small zucchini, Wooden or metal skewers
- Grill method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is golden and cooked through. Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for extra char.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and garlic.
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FAQ
- Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—omit the yogurt or use a plant-based alternative like coconut or almond yogurt. - Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat, depending on the brand of harissa used. Adjust cayenne or harissa amount to your preference. - Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes—bake at 425°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, and broil at the end for char. - What’s a good substitute for harissa?
Try a mix of chili paste, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic, or use sriracha or chipotle paste in a pinch. - How long can I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavour. - Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely—cook the skewers ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Nutrition
Per serving
Calories: 264.7kcal
Carbohydrates: 11.4g
Fiber: 2.7g
Sugar: 6.2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.6g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Protein: 34.3g
Nutrition Facts
Harissa Chicken Skewers with Veggies (Gluten-Free & High-Protein)
Serving Size
2 skewers
Amount per Serving
Calories
264.7
% Daily Value*
Fat
9
g
14
%
Saturated Fat
1.6
g
10
%
Trans Fat
0.02
g
Cholesterol
96.7
mg
32
%
Sodium
414.5
mg
18
%
Potassium
878.4
mg
25
%
Carbohydrates
11.4
g
4
%
Fiber
2.7
g
11
%
Sugar
6.2
g
7
%
Protein
34.3
g
69
%
Vitamin C
73.8
mg
89
%
Vitamin D
0.1
µg
1
%
Calcium
40.1
mg
4
%
Iron
1.3
mg
7
%
Magnesium
58.8
mg
15
%
Zinc
1.2
mg
8
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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