Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Kebabs
These Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Kebabs are a delightful twist on the traditional kebab, infusing tender chunks of chicken breast with a creamy yogurt marinade that packs a flavorful punch. With a blend of warm spices like turmeric, curry powder, and cardamom, each bite is aromatic and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, these kebabs are easy to prepare, requiring only a short marinade time of 30-45 minutes. Pair with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley for a burst of freshness. Ideal for serving outdoors or as part of a mezze platter, these kebabs are sure to please both family and guests alike.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (cut into 1-inch cubes)
yogurt
3 tablespoons (plain, preferably Greek)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
turmeric
1/4 teaspoon
dry mustard
1/8 teaspoon
curry powder
1/2 teaspoon
ground cardamom
1/8 teaspoon
lemon juice
1 teaspoon (freshly squeezed)
white vinegar
1 teaspoon
onion
1/2 small (cut in half and broken up into layers)
tomatoes
4 small (halved)
bamboo skewers
8 (soaked in water)
lemon
1 (cut into wedges for serving)
parsley
(for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, yielding approximately 16 pieces.
2
In a non-reactive bowl, mix together the yogurt, salt, turmeric, mustard, curry powder, ground cardamom, lemon juice, and white vinegar until well combined.
3
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4
While the chicken marinates, soak the bamboo skewers in water for about 15 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
5
After marinating, thread the chicken, onion, and tomato onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for an attractive presentation. Use the following pattern: chicken-onion-chicken-onion-tomato-onion-chicken-onion-chicken-onion.
6
Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Grill or broil the kebabs for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even grilling and a delightful char.
7
Once cooked through and slightly charred, remove the kebabs from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Kebabs?
They are a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast chunks marinated in a spiced yogurt blend, then grilled or broiled with onions and tomatoes.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe.
How should the chicken be cut?
The chicken should be cut into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and easy threading on skewers.
What ingredients are in the kebab marinade?
The marinade includes yogurt, salt, turmeric, dry mustard, curry powder, ground cardamom, lemon juice, and white vinegar.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Why is yogurt used in the marinade?
Yogurt helps to tenderize the chicken and provides a creamy base that carries the warm spices.
What spices give these kebabs their aromatic flavor?
A blend of turmeric, curry powder, and ground cardamom provides the distinct aromatic profile.
How do I prepare the bamboo skewers before grilling?
Soak the bamboo skewers in water for about 15 minutes to prevent them from burning during the cooking process.
What vegetables are added to the skewers?
The recipe uses small tomatoes cut in half and onion layers to complement the chicken.
What is the specific threading pattern for the skewers?
The recommended pattern is chicken-onion-chicken-onion-tomato-onion-chicken-onion-chicken-onion.
At what temperature should I grill the kebabs?
Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat for the best results.
How long do the kebabs take to cook?
They typically take 8 to 10 minutes to cook through and achieve a slight char.
Do I need to turn the kebabs while they cook?
Yes, turn them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are evenly grilled on all sides.
Can I cook these kebabs in the oven?
Yes, you can use the broiler setting in your oven as an alternative to an outdoor grill.
What kind of yogurt should I use?
Plain yogurt is required, and Greek yogurt is preferred for its thicker consistency.
How should the onion be prepared for threading?
Cut a small onion in half and break it up into individual layers so they can be easily threaded onto the skewers.
How many skewers does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed to yield 8 skewers.
What should I use for a garnish?
Freshly chopped parsley is used as a garnish to add a burst of color and freshness.
What can I serve on the side?
Serve the kebabs with fresh lemon wedges for added zing and perhaps as part of a mezze platter.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it uses lean chicken breast, yogurt, and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious and high-protein option.
Can I use metal skewers instead of bamboo?
Yes, metal skewers can be used; they do not require soaking in water before grilling.
How many pieces of chicken should be on each skewer?
Based on the yield of 16 pieces for 8 skewers, you should place 2 pieces of chicken on each skewer.
What is the purpose of adding vinegar and lemon juice to the marinade?
Both ingredients add acidity which helps tenderize the chicken and provides a bright, tangy flavor.
Can I make these for a party?
Yes, these kebabs are excellent party food and work well for weekend barbecues or outdoor gatherings.
Is the curry powder in this recipe very spicy?
The 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder provides a warm, aromatic flavor rather than intense heat.
What size of tomatoes should I use?
Small tomatoes are best; you should halve them before threading them onto the skewers.
Should the chicken be covered while marinating?
Yes, cover the bowl and refrigerate it to keep the food safe and allow the flavors to develop properly.
What preparation is needed for the dry mustard?
No special preparation is needed; simply measure the 1/8 teaspoon and mix it into the yogurt marinade.
How do I know when the chicken is finished cooking?
The chicken is done when it is opaque throughout, firm to the touch, and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can cut the chicken and prepare the marinade in advance, but it is best to marinate for the recommended 30-45 minutes just before cooking for optimal texture.