Middle Eastern Chicken Kebab Recipe

Authentic Middle Eastern Chicken Kebab with a blend of aromatic spices.

Step into the world of Middle Eastern culinary delight with our authentic Chicken Kebab recipe. Middle Eastern cuisine is rich in flavors and traditions, dating back centuries and shaped by a diverse blend of cultures. These kebabs are crafted to impress, combining tender, juicy chicken with a marinade full of spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. Whether grilled or cooked on a skillet, they offer a taste of the exotic right at home.

Succulent and flavorful, chicken kebabs are a staple dish that brings people together. This recipe emphasizes the importance of marinating the meat, allowing the flavors to penetrate and create a deliciously juicy kebab. Paired with a tangy yogurt sauce, fresh pita bread, and a side of vegetables, these kebabs make for a mouthwatering meal that's hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt to taste
• 1 medium onion, grated
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, ground black pepper, ground cinnamon, and salt.
2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat the pan over medium-high heat.
4. Thread Chicken onto Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating occasionally with grated onion or bell peppers if desired. Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly spaced for even cooking.
5. Grill Kebabs: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with pita bread, a side of vegetables, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce if desired.

Enjoy your Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs with a variety of sides to complement the tender and flavorful meat. Some popular accompaniments include hummus, tabbouleh, and baba ganoush. These dishes add a delightful range of textures and flavors to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a refreshing contrast, you might want to serve a fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, dressed with a simple lemon and olive oil vinaigrette. Another option is to create a mezze platter with an assortment of olives, cheeses, and pickles, offering a vibrant and appetizing array of nibbles alongside your kebabs.

Make sure to soak your skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This helps to prevent them from burning on the grill. Additionally, consider using metal skewers, which are reusable and conduct heat more efficiently, ensuring evenly cooked meat.

If grilling isn't an option, these kebabs can also be cooked in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.

To further elevate the flavor, try adding some vegetables to your skewers. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini work wonderfully and add a burst of color and nutrients to your dish. These additions also absorb the marinade well, making every bite consistent and delicious.

Leftover kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through. They can also be repurposed into other dishes, such as wraps, salads, or served over rice for a quick and easy meal.