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Persian Chicken Kabobs Recipe

4.8 from 149 reviews

This Persian Chicken Kabobs recipe features tender, flavorful chicken marinated in a blend of yogurt, aromatic spices, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant Middle Eastern spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, creating a deliciously fragrant and juicy kabob perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade and Chicken

  • 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

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a smooth, aromatic marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight to maximize flavor infusion.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure a good sear and proper cooking temperature.
  4. Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers, ensuring pieces are evenly spaced for even cooking.
  5. Grill the Kabobs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve even cooking and a slightly charred exterior.
  6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked through, remove the kabobs from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
  • Using chicken thighs provides more juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
  • Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • The spice blend can be adjusted to your taste preference; adding a pinch of cayenne will add heat.
  • Serve with rice, flatbreads, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Persian chicken kabobs, grilled chicken skewers, yogurt marinated chicken, Middle Eastern chicken recipe, healthy chicken kabobs