Grilled Chicken Kebab

These Grilled Chicken Kebabs are perfect for summer grilling! Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a deliciously spiced yogurt mixture, then grilled to juicy perfection. With smoky paprika, cumin, and a hint of cinnamon, these kebabs are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These kebabs are full of bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors thanks to the yogurt marinade, which keeps the chicken juicy and tender. The combination of aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon adds an exciting depth of flavor. Perfect for grilling, they cook quickly and are easy to serve. Plus, you can add vegetables to the skewers for a colorful, complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped

• 2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the marinade:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, onion powder, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro until fully combined.

Marinate the chicken:

2. Cut the chicken thighs into 1 1/2-inch pieces and place them into a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss until the pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for optimal flavor, marinate overnight.

Prepare the skewers:

3. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them.

Grill the kebabs:

4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grease the grates with a little olive oil. Place the chicken kebabs over direct heat and grill for 13-15 minutes, turning every couple of minutes to ensure even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Rest and serve:

5. Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

• Add Veggies: Thread vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini onto the skewers for a colorful and flavorful addition.

• Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

• Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the thighs, though they may need slightly less grilling time.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. If using breasts, you may need slightly less grilling time.

2. Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

3. Can I cook the kebabs in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, turning halfway through.

4. Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini pair perfectly with these kebabs. Add them to the skewers and grill alongside the chicken.

5. How can I make these kebabs spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier flavor. You can also serve the kebabs with a spicy sauce on the side.

6. What should I serve with these chicken kebabs?

These kebabs are perfect with pita bread, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a yogurt or tahini sauce for extra flavor.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze cooked kebabs for up to 3 months. Make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven or on the grill.

8. Can I use a different oil for the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with canola oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil, depending on your preference.

9. How do I know when the kebabs are done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the kebabs are safe to eat.

10. Can I grill these kebabs on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, you can use a stovetop grill pan for indoor grilling. Just preheat the pan and cook the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning them every couple of minutes.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Kebabs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, making them a perfect dish for summer grilling or any time you crave something delicious and satisfying. With the right balance of spices, they’re packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a family barbecue or prepping for the week ahead, these kebabs are sure to be a hit!

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