Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these Middle Eastern-inspired Grilled Chicken Skewers! Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces infused with a creamy, spice-packed yogurt marinade that will transport your senses straight to the vibrant streets of the Mediterranean. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and maybe even the recipe itself!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended to create a smooth marinade.
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the wooden skewers from water and let them drain. This prevents the skewers from burning during grilling.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on one side, then carefully turn and grill for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, which helps maintain the chicken's moisture and tenderness.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or accompanied by tzatziki sauce or rice.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more intense and deep the flavors become.
- Skewer Smart: Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning, and leave a small space between chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Rest Your Meat: Always let the skewers rest for 3-5 minutes after grilling to lock in those delicious juices and maintain tenderness.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the spice blend to your taste. Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat or some dried herbs for extra complexity.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these skewers with tzatziki sauce, fresh rice, or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
