Chicken Kebab Recipe

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? These chicken kebabs offer a perfect balance of juicy, tender chicken and bold, aromatic flavors. Whether grilled, air-fried, or baked, they’re ideal for any occasion.

Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and warming spices like cumin and paprika, these kebabs are sure to become a family favorite. The buttermilk or yogurt marinade ensures the chicken stays succulent and flavorful.

Serve these flavorful kebabs with your favorite sides—whether it’s fresh salad, crispy fries, or pita bread—and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as versatile as it is tasty.

Chicken Kebab Recipe – Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of this dish, offering tender, juicy meat that absorbs flavors beautifully. The buttermilk or yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken while enhancing the spices’ depth. Fresh lemon juice and zest infuse the dish with a refreshing citrus tang, brightening the rich flavors.

Garlic adds a savory, aromatic punch, while sweet paprika introduces a mild, smoky sweetness. Ground cumin provides a warm, earthy undertone, and a pinch of Aleppo chili flakes brings just the right amount of heat. Cinnamon adds a subtle complexity, balancing the savory and sweet elements for a perfect kebab experience.

Chicken Kebab Recipe – Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ

Recipe Tips

1. Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor
   While 30 minutes of marinating will still yield tasty results, allowing the chicken to marinate for 3–6 hours is ideal. This longer marination time ensures that the chicken absorbs the full depth of the spices and the buttermilk or yogurt, creating a juicier and more flavorful kebab.
2. Use Metal Skewers for Easy Cooking
   If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This step prevents the skewers from burning during cooking. Metal skewers are a great alternative, as they conduct heat and help the chicken cook evenly.
3. Cook in Batches for Even Crisping
   If you’re using an air fryer or oven, cook the kebabs in batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly on all sides, resulting in a golden, crisp exterior and a tender, juicy interior.

What to Serve with Chicken Kebabs

1. Fresh Greek Salad
   Pair the kebabs with a refreshing Greek salad. The crisp vegetables—cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onions—complement the rich, smoky flavors of the chicken, while feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
2. Warm Pita Bread with Tzatziki
   Serve your kebabs with soft, warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce. The creamy yogurt-based dip, made with cucumbers, garlic, and dill, enhances the kebabs with a cool, refreshing flavor that balances the spices.
3. Crispy French Fries
   For a classic side, serve the kebabs with crispy French fries. The crunchy, golden fries provide the perfect contrast to the juicy chicken, and their mild flavor complements the more robust seasoning of the kebabs.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner and may become dry if overcooked. Consider marinating them for a slightly shorter period, around 2-3 hours, to prevent drying out.

2. Can I make the kebabs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the chicken the night before and keep it refrigerated. Just thread the chicken onto skewers and cook the next day for a quick and easy meal.

3. How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the heat, you can reduce the Aleppo chili flakes or substitute them with a milder chili variety. For a spicier kick, consider adding more chili flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

4. How do I know when the kebabs are fully cooked?
To ensure the kebabs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption, though an ideal texture is achieved at around 85°C (185°F).

Chicken Kebab Recipe

This chicken kebab recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, featuring tender, well-marinated chicken enhanced by aromatic spices and a hint of citrus. Whether grilled, air-fried, or baked, these kebabs make an excellent option for any occasion, from casual weeknights to festive celebrations.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• For the Marinade
• Buttermilk or natural yogurt: Serves as the base for the marinade ensuring the chicken remains tender while allowing the spices to infuse deeply.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest: Adds a zesty refreshing citrus note to the marinade, brightening the overall flavor.
• Garlic cloves minced: Contributes a rich, savory aroma and depth to the marinade.
• Sweet paprika: Offers a mild smoky sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Ground cumin: Adds warmth and an earthy complexity to the dish.
• Aleppo chili flakes or dried chili flakes: Introduces a mild balanced heat that complements the other spices.
• Ground cinnamon: Imparts a subtle touch of warmth and complexity to the kebabs.
• Salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning enhancing the overall taste.
• Olive oil or rapeseed oil: Helps retain moisture during cooking and ensures a golden crispy finish.
• For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These cuts of chicken are perfect for creating juicy, tender kebabs that soak up the marinade beautifully.

Method

 

1. Prepare the Chicken
2. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting them into evenly sized pieces to promote uniform cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during the cooking process.
3. Make the Marinade
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk (or yogurt), lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, and all the spices. Stir until well combined. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them until they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours for optimal flavor absorption. For best results, marinate the chicken for up to 6 hours, although even a 30-minute soak will still yield tasty results.
5. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
6. After the chicken has marinated, carefully thread the pieces onto either metal or soaked wooden skewers. Arrange the pieces closely but avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Lightly spray or brush the skewers with olive or rapeseed oil to prevent sticking and promote a beautifully browned finish.
7. Cooking the Kebabs
8. Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Lightly oil the air fryer basket and place the skewers in a single layer, ensuring there is enough space between them. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook the kebabs in batches. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
9. Oven Cooking: Arrange the skewers on a wire rack over a baking tray to allow air circulation. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for around 30 minutes, turning occasionally. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be at least 75°C (165°F), though aiming for 85°C (185°F) will give the best texture.
10. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the skewers over direct heat, turning frequently to ensure even browning. Grill for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through.
11. Serving Suggestions
12. These delicious kebabs can be served with a variety of sides, including a fresh salad, warm pita bread, or crispy fries. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside roasted vegetables or rice pilaf. Whether served on a plate or eaten straight from the skewer, these chicken kebabs make for a satisfying and flavorful meal.