Chicken Kebab

Chicken Kebab is a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds with its juicy, flavorful pieces of chicken grilled to perfection. This easy recipe features a delightful marinade that infuses the chicken with a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic, and cumin. Perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy weeknight dinner, these kebabs are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them with rice, in wraps, or alongside fresh salads for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make these delicious chicken kebabs.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of spices and herbs elevates the taste of the chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a main course or use them in wraps and salads for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, these kebabs are always a hit.
• Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, they fit perfectly into any healthy eating plan.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the process easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to prepare for making Chicken Kebab.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Metal or bamboo skewers
• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Marinade brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These hold the chicken pieces together for even cooking on the grill.
• Grill: A good grill ensures that your kebabs get that perfect charred flavor while remaining juicy inside.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken evenly with all ingredients.
• Marinade Brush: This tool helps to apply olive oil during grilling for extra moisture and flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken Kebab – easy recipe with the juiciest and best kebab ever! Threaded on skewers and marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic, and cumin.

For the Chicken

• 12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves

How to Make Chicken Kebab

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes. Pat them dry using paper towels to ensure they absorb the marinade well. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice, paprika, ground cumin, minced garlic, and salt. Add the chicken cubes to this mixture and let it marinate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Assemble Skewers

Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Repeat until you have four skewers ready. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Kebabs

Fire up your outdoor grill or preheat your indoor grill. Cook the chicken kebabs until they are fully cooked through—this usually takes about 10 minutes. While grilling, brush the kebabs with additional olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Kebab!

How to Serve Chicken Kebab

Serving Chicken Kebab can elevate your meal experience. This delicious dish pairs well with various sides and sauces, enhancing its flavors and making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

With Fresh Salads

• Tossed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly in vinaigrette.
• Tabbouleh: A parsley-based salad that adds a zesty flavor with tomatoes and bulgur wheat.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy yogurt sauce with cucumber and garlic, perfect for cooling down the spices.
• Chili Sauce: Add some heat to your kebabs with a tangy chili sauce for a kick.

In Pita Bread

• Pita Wraps: Stuff the kebabs into warm pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for a delightful handheld meal.
• Open-Faced Sandwich: Layer kebabs on pita topped with veggies and drizzled in sauce for an easy lunch option.

As Part of a Platter

• Kebab Platter: Serve an assortment of chicken kebabs alongside grilled vegetables and rice for a stunning centerpiece.
• Mixed Grill Plate: Combine chicken kebabs with other grilled meats like lamb or beef for variety.

How to Perfect Chicken Kebab

Perfecting Chicken Kebab involves careful attention to marinating and grilling techniques. These tips will ensure your kebabs are juicy and flavorful.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use Skewers Wisely: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Watch Your Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside moist.
• Turn Regularly: Rotate the skewers every few minutes to cook evenly on all sides without drying out.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the cooked kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Kebab

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Kebab can transform your meal into a feast. Here are some great options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and spices, providing a fragrant base for your kebabs.
2. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies grilled until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that pairs well as a spread or side, offering richness alongside your kebabs.
4. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with veggies and lemon gives a refreshing contrast to the meatiness of kebabs.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned simply with olive oil and herbs are always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Flatbread: Soft, warm flatbreads are perfect for wrapping around pieces of chicken kebab or scooping up dips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Kebab, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your kebabs turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Using unevenly sized pieces: Cutting the chicken into uneven pieces can cause uneven cooking. Make sure all cubes are about the same size for even grilling.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Aim for four pieces per skewer to ensure they grill perfectly.
• Neglecting to preheat the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always heat your grill for at least 10 minutes before placing the kebabs on it.
• Not brushing with oil while grilling: Forgetting to brush the chicken with olive oil while it cooks can lead to dry kebabs. Keep them moist by basting with oil during grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Chicken Kebab in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Kebab

• Freeze cooked kebabs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be kept for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Kebab

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and reheat kebabs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Kebab that may help you get the most out of this delicious dish.

Can I use other meats for Chicken Kebab?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or shrimp. Adjust cooking times based on the type of meat used.

What type of seasoning works best for Chicken Kebab?

You can experiment with different spices like coriander, turmeric, or chili powder alongside paprika and cumin for added flavor.

How do I know when my Chicken Kebab is done?

Chicken Kebab is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is handy for this!

Can I make Chicken Kebab without skewers?

Absolutely! You can grill chicken pieces directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket if you prefer not using skewers.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Kebab recipe offers juicy flavors and is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various spices and serve it with different sides like rice or salad. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Kebab

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (4 skewers) 1x

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Description

Chicken Kebab is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, juicy pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection. This simple recipe features a zesty marinade made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and cumin, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. Ideal for family gatherings, barbecues, or cozy weeknight dinners, these kebabs are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside rice, in wraps, or with fresh salads to create a delightful meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into equal-sized cubes and pat dry.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, minced garlic, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto skewers.
4. Preheat your grill and cook the kebabs for about 10 minutes until fully cooked, brushing with additional olive oil while grilling.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (85g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg