Chicken shish kebabs are a summer grilling classic, offering a delightful blend of smoky char and juicy, tender chicken. This vibrant dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings. The key lies in marinating the chicken for optimal flavor penetration, a process that unlocks a depth of taste that elevates this simple dish to something truly special. We'll be using a flavorful blend of herbs and spices to create a marinade that's both aromatic and intensely delicious, ensuring each bite is a burst of Mediterranean sunshine.
Forget dry, bland chicken! This recipe delivers juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the marinade to grilling the kebabs to perfection. Ready to experience the juicy, flavorful perfection of homemade chicken shish kebabs? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Chef's knife
- Cast iron grill
- Shish skewers
- Rectangular plates
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 1 large + 2 smaller pieces
- Green pepper: 1 small
- Red pepper (pul biber or regular): 1
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Red pepper flakes (pul biber): 2 tablespoons
- Parsley
- Butter
- Sunflower oil
- Salt
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
- In a bowl, combine red pepper flakes, hot water, and sunflower oil. Let it sit to allow the flavors to blend.
- Finely chop the green pepper, red pepper, and garlic.
- Dice the chicken breasts into small pieces.
- Mix the diced chicken, chopped vegetables, parsley, and marinade together. Add a heaping teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste).
- Refrigerate the chicken mixture for about 40 minutes.
Step 2. Assemble and Grill the Kebabs
- Heat the cast iron grill. Assemble the chicken mixture onto skewers.
- Grill the kebabs until cooked through, turning occasionally.
Step 3. Prepare the Optional Sauce
- While grilling, make a sauce with butter, parsley, red pepper, and water.
Read more: Arabian Flame Grilled Fish (Samak Mashwi) Recipe
Tips
- Using hot water with the spices helps the flavors infuse better into the meat.
- Adjust salt according to your preference. It's better to start with less and add more later.
- Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to fully develop and keeps the meat moist.
- Adding butter during cooking helps prevent the chicken from drying out.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 50-60g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Bone-in, boneless, skin-on, or skinless chicken thighs or breasts all work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
3. What can I do if I don't have a grill?
You can cook these kebabs in a large skillet or on a grill pan over medium-high heat. Just be sure to cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
With Refika's recipe, creating delicious chicken shish kebabs is easier than you think. Enjoy the satisfying taste of perfectly grilled chicken, bursting with flavor and tender to the bite. Gather your family and friends, fire up the grill, and savor these unforgettable kebabs!