Authentic Turkish Chicken Kebab Recipe

Succulent and flavorful chicken kebab marinated in authentic Turkish spices.

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich, aromatic flavors and its deep cultural history. One of the jewels of Turkish cuisine is the chicken kebab, which has journeyed through centuries and across continents to become a beloved dish worldwide. The authentic Turkish chicken kebab is a harmony of tender marinated chicken, spices, and herbs, often grilled to perfection over an open flame or a charcoal grill.

In this recipe, we'll delve into the secrets of making mouthwatering Turkish chicken kebabs right in your own kitchen. From preparing the marinade to grilling the chicken, each step is designed to ensure that you achieve the most flavorful and juicy kebabs. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a BBQ party, this dish is sure to impress your guests and transport their taste buds straight to the heart of Turkey.

Ingredients

• 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 large onion, finely grated
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 100 ml plain yogurt
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp ground paprika
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• 1 lemon (juice)
• Salt to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

Nutrition

Calories: ~320 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, combine the finely grated onion, minced garlic, plain yogurt, olive oil, tomato paste, ground paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and the juice of one lemon. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken cubes, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.
4. Prepare the Grill: If using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash. If using a gas grill, preheat to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F or 200°C).
5. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.
6. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the hot grill, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char, approximately 10-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve: Remove the chicken kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.

Your authentic Turkish chicken kebab is now ready to enjoy! These kebabs are wonderfully aromatic and full of deep, rich flavors brought out by the marination process. Serve them with a side of Turkish rice pilaf, a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce, or wrapped in warm pita bread for a truly authentic experience.

Pro Tips: To take your kebabs to the next level, here are a few tips:

• Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Ideally, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Grill Preparation: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Charcoal Grill Flavor: Using a charcoal grill imparts a smoky flavor that's hard to beat. If you're limited to a gas grill, consider adding some soaked wood chips for a similar effect.
• Consistent Cooking: Ensure that the chicken pieces are cut to the same size for even cooking.

This chicken kebab recipe is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled or tripled if you’re serving a crowd. It’s a flexible dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer spicier flavors, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add a bit of chili powder.

History and Cultural Significance: Kebabs have a long and storied history in Turkish cuisine, tracing back to the Ottoman Empire. Traditionally, kebabs were cooked over an open flame and have since evolved into numerous regional variations. Each version carries a unique blend of spices and preparation methods that reflect the local culinary traditions. Chicken kebabs, in particular, are a popular choice due to their quick cooking time and ability to absorb flavors.

As you savor your delicious Turkish chicken kebabs, take a moment to reflect on the rich culinary heritage they represent. Enjoy your meal and the journey through the history and flavors of Turkey right from your kitchen!