Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Vegetables (optional): Bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes
- Skewers: Metal or wooden (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
For Marinade
- Yogurt: ½ cup (plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 1–2 tbsp
- Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced
- Spices: 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp ground turmeric (optional), ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Fresh herbs (optional): 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, spices, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor).
- Prepare the Skewers:
- Preheat the grill or oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking.
- Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables (if using) onto the skewers, alternating to create a colorful pattern.
- Cook the Kebabs:
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through and have slight grill marks.
- Oven: Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through. Optionally, finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes for a slight char.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with rice, pita, or a fresh salad. Add a side of garlic yogurt or tzatziki for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Kebabs
- Marinate long enough for the yogurt and spices to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers—leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), so the chicken is juicy but safely cooked.
Enjoy your homemade chicken kebabs!