Name: Persian Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h 27 min
Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into cubes; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)

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Introduction

Persian Chicken Kabobs are a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt. Grilled to juicy perfection, these kabobs make a delightful meal for any occasion.

Two skewers of grilled chicken cubes with a golden-brown, slightly charred surface and specks of green herbs, alternated with bright red bell pepper pieces, rest on a bed of green leafy herbs and grains mixed with scattered red pomegranate seeds. On the white round plate, there is a lemon wedge on the left side and two small white bowls at the back; one containing a creamy white sauce and the other holding a pale grain or crumb mixture, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into cubes
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Step 2: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to develop the flavors.
Step 4: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 5: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
Step 6: Grill the kabobs for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
Step 7: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra tenderness, use chicken thighs rather than breasts.
Add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm water to the marinade for a richer aroma and color.
Serve with grilled vegetables or a side of saffron rice to complete the meal.
If you don’t have a grill, cook the kabobs under a broiler, turning frequently for even cooking.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on a stovetop skillet to avoid drying out the chicken. The uncooked marinated chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

How to Serve

Two wooden skewers hold grilled chicken pieces that are golden with charred spices and herbs, alternating with bright red bell pepper chunks and slightly charred purple onion segments. The skewers rest on a white plate, with a drizzle of greenish-yellow sauce mixed with red chili flakes and chopped herbs spread on one side. In the back, two lemon wedges add a light yellow contrast, all placed on a white marbled surface. The texture of the chicken is juicy and slightly crispy, while the vegetables add pops of color and freshness. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, both boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving, while breasts are leaner and cook faster.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill during cooking.