Appetizer Chicken

Chicken Kebab Recipe

Stephen

March 14, 2025

These lemon chicken kebabs are a flavor-packed favorite, marinated overnight in a zesty and aromatic blend that ensures every bite is tender and juicy. Grilled to a golden perfection, the chicken absorbs the tangy lemon and savory spices, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This Chicken Kebab Recipe & Marinade is a mouthwatering combination that creates tender, juicy kebabs bursting with flavor. The marinade blends zesty lemon juice, aromatic garlic, olive oil, turmeric, and a medley of fresh herbs like dill to infuse the chicken with a bright and savory taste. Preparing the kebabs ahead of time allows the marinade to work its magic, resulting in a deliciously seasoned dish.

Perfect for grilling, these kebabs are a hit at summer parties and casual barbecues alike. Pair them with sides like tzatziki, hummus, Greek salad, or turmeric rice for a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast. These chicken kebabs are simple to make, yet impressive enough to elevate any meal.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are slightly juicier than breasts, but either works well.

Olive Oil: Acts as a base for the marinade, helping the flavors penetrate the meat.

Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Garlic: Brings a savory and aromatic depth to the marinade.

Turmeric: Contributes a warm, earthy flavor and a vibrant golden hue to the chicken.

Cumin: Adds a nutty, smoky undertone that complements the other spices.

Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smokiness of the dish, especially if grilled.

Fresh Dill: Provides a bright, herby freshness that elevates the marinade.

Salt & Pepper: Balances and enhances the overall flavors.

Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.

How to Make Chicken Kebabs

Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 6 hours, or ideally overnight, to maximize flavor. 2) Soak the bamboo skewers in hot water for at least 1 hour before assembling the kebabs to prevent them from burning during cooking.

Marinate the Chicken

Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes or strips, depending on your preference for the kebabs.

Next, place the chicken pieces into a lidded glass container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a plastic bag, consider placing it in another container as a precaution against leaks or marinade spills that might cause stains.

Prepare the chicken kabob marinade by thoroughly whisking all the ingredients in a medium bowl until well combined.

Afterward, pour the marinade over the chicken pieces and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.

Place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator, allowing it to soak up the flavors overnight or for a minimum of 6 hours.

Put together the Chicken Kebabs

After the chicken has been marinated, it’s time to put together the kebabs. If you’re using bamboo skewers, make sure to soak them in warm water for at least an hour to prevent them from burning during grilling.

Alternatively, you can opt for fire wire skewers for grilling. They’re reusable, eliminate the need for soaking, and allow for easy transfer of the cooked meat and vegetables to a serving platter.

A helpful tip: Since the marinade contains turmeric, it’s prone to staining surfaces, utensils, and even your hands. To avoid this, consider using plastic or rubber gloves while handling the marinated chicken and assembling the kebabs.

Thread the skewers by alternating pieces of chicken, bell peppers, and onion, continuing until all the meat and vegetables have been used. This combination adds a colorful and flavorful touch to your kebabs! 🍢✨

Grill

Cook the kebabs on medium heat, grilling the first side for approximately 5 minutes. Turn them over and grill for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked and juicy.

Tips for Success:

Cutting the Chicken: Ensure uniform-sized pieces for even cooking.
Marination Time: While overnight marination is ideal, 6 hours is sufficient to infuse the flavors.
Skewer Assembly: Alternate chicken with slices of onion, bell pepper, or zucchini for added color and flavor.
Cooking Methods:
- If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high to get those beautiful char marks.
- For oven cooking, use a wire rack on a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the kebabs.

Serving Ideas:

Pair the kebabs with cooling tzatziki, creamy hummus, or fluffy turmeric rice for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Fresh pita or naan bread can serve as a base for wraps, complemented by crunchy vegetables or a drizzle of garlic sauce.

Leftover Tips:

Store cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or grill to maintain flavor and texture. Alternatively, shred the chicken to make salads, wraps, or sandwiches!

Let me know if you’d like me to elaborate further on any step or tip! 🍋🍢✨

Chicken Kebabs Recipe FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken? It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop. For maximum flavor, marinate it overnight.

What kind of chicken is best for kebabs? Both boneless, skinless chicken thighs and chicken breasts work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers? Yes, soak bamboo or wooden skewers in warm water for at least 1 hour before assembling the kebabs to prevent them from burning during grilling.

Can I use metal skewers instead? Absolutely! Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.

Can I bake the kebabs instead of grilling them? Yes, bake the kebabs in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.