Chicken Kebab is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the grill to your table. Perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or even a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises juicy and tender kebabs that are marinated to perfection. With a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, these Chicken Kebabs are sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chicken Kebab recipe requires only 30 minutes of marinating time and just 10 minutes on the grill, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Marinade: The blend of olive oil, garlic, cumin, and paprika creates an irresistible taste that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these kebabs with pita bread, fresh salads, or over rice for a complete meal. They also make great appetizers for parties.
- Healthy Choice: With low calories and high protein content, these Chicken Kebabs fit perfectly into a balanced diet.
- Family Friendly: Kids love them too! These kebabs are easy to eat and can be customized with different veggies or dipping sauces.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this Chicken Kebab recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and ensures your kebabs are grilled to perfection.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (metal or bamboo)
- Grill (outdoor or indoor)
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken pieces; they help cook evenly on the grill.
- Grill: Provides that smoky flavor that enhances the taste of Chicken Kebabs.
- Mixing Bowl: Allows you to marinate the chicken thoroughly by mixing all ingredients in one place.
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 Marinade
- Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes.
- Pat dry each piece of chicken to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, minced garlic, and salt. Mix well.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade and let sit for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble Skewers
- Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer.
- Repeat until all chicken is used up to create four skewers.
Step 3: Grill the Kebabs
- Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill.
- Place skewers on the grill once hot.
- Cook until fully cooked through while brushing with additional olive oil during grilling.
- Remove from heat once done; serve hot garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy making these delicious Chicken Kebabs at your next gathering!
How to Serve Chicken Kebab
Serving chicken kebab can elevate your meal experience with a variety of delicious accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your kebabs, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
With Fresh Salads
- Tabbouleh: A refreshing parsley salad with bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon dressing that complements the spices in the kebabs.
- Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil create a vibrant side that balances the richness of the chicken.
In a Wrap
- Pita Bread Wrap: Wrap your chicken kebab in warm pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini for a satisfying handheld meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, adding fresh herbs and a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
With Dips
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cool cucumber and yogurt dip that pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken.
- Chili Sauce: For those who love heat, serve your kebabs with a spicy chili sauce to kick up the flavor.
How to Perfect Chicken Kebab
To ensure your chicken kebabs turn out juicy and flavorful, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use Metal Skewers: Metal skewers conduct heat better than bamboo, leading to more evenly cooked meat.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the kebabs on it for a perfect sear.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between pieces of chicken on the skewers for even cooking.
- Baste While Grilling: Brush the kebabs with olive oil as they cook to keep them moist and add extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Kebab
Pairing side dishes with your chicken kebab can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent choices that complement this delightful dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with spices and herbs makes a great base for the savory kebabs.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition when grilled alongside your kebabs.
- Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip is perfect for spreading on pita or using as a dipping sauce for the skewers.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs well with grilled meats.
- Couscous Salad: Light couscous tossed with chopped vegetables and lemon juice creates a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad made with mixed greens and crispy pita chips offers crunchiness that complements tender kebabs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Kebab, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:
Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken will result in less flavorful kebabs. Always allow at least 30 minutes for marination to enhance taste.
Using uneven chicken pieces: Cutting the chicken into uneven sizes leads to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are uniform for consistent results.
Overcrowding skewers: Stuffing too many pieces onto one skewer can prevent even cooking. Limit each skewer to four pieces for better grilling.
Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on too high or low heat can dry out the chicken. Preheat your grill properly and maintain a medium heat for juicy kebabs.
Not basting during grilling: Forgetting to baste with olive oil can cause the kebabs to stick and become dry. Brush the kebabs with olive oil regularly while grilling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked Chicken Kebab in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Kebab
- Place kebabs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Frozen Chicken Kebab can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Kebab
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake kebabs on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil, and warm the kebabs for 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate Chicken Kebab?
Marinating Chicken Kebab for at least 30 minutes is essential for maximum flavor absorption. For best results, consider marinating it overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I use other meats for kebabs?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on Chicken Kebab, you can substitute beef, lamb, or even vegetables depending on your preference. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
What sides go well with Chicken Kebab?
Chicken Kebabs pair wonderfully with rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with pita bread and yogurt sauce for added flavor.
How do I know when Chicken Kebab is done?
The internal temperature of cooked Chicken Kebab should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check doneness accurately.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Kebab recipe provides an easy and delicious way to enjoy grilled chicken at home. With its juicy texture and flavor-packed marinade, these kebabs are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite spices or vegetables before grilling, making this dish versatile enough for everyone’s taste! Try it today and elevate your grilling game!
Chicken Kebab
Elevate your grilling experience with these mouthwatering Chicken Kebabs, a dish that promises to impress at any gathering. Each tender piece of chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, ensuring every bite is juicy and packed with flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, these kebabs can be served with fresh salads, pita bread, or your favorite dipping sauces. Quick and easy to prepare, they require only 30 minutes of marinating and 10 minutes on the grill. Enjoy the smoky goodness and versatility of this delightful dish that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 12 oz (350g) skinless boneless chicken breast
- 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
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into equal-sized cubes and pat dry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, minced garlic, and salt. Add chicken cubes to marinade and let sit for 30 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill; cook skewers while brushing with olive oil until fully cooked (about 10 minutes).
- Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg