Easy Chicken Kebab Recipe – Juicy & Flavorful!
Juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly tender—these chicken kebabs are a game-changer for any meal. Marinated in a rich blend of yogurt, warm spices, and zesty lemon, each bite bursts with bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Whether grilled, baked, or air-fried, they guarantee mouthwatering perfection.
Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, these skewers are incredibly versatile. The yogurt-based marinade not only infuses deep flavor but also ensures the chicken stays succulent and tender. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality kebabs in no time.
Serve them with fresh salads, warm pita, or crispy fries for a satisfying meal. Whether wrapped in a flatbread or enjoyed straight off the skewer, these chicken kebabs are sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this easy yet delicious recipe!
Chicken Kebab Recipe – Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Chicken Kebabs
- Chicken Thighs – Naturally tender and juicy, perfect for succulent skewers.
- Buttermilk or Yogurt – Acts as a tenderizer, infusing the chicken with creaminess and depth.
- Lemon (Juice & Zest) – Bright and citrusy, enhancing both flavor and tenderness.
- Garlic – Bold and aromatic, adding a savory depth to every bite.
- Sweet Paprika – Delivers mild smokiness and a rich color.
- Ground Cumin – Warm and earthy, bringing a subtle spice complexity.
- Aleppo Chili Flakes – A touch of gentle heat with a hint of fruitiness.
- Cinnamon – A whisper of warmth, deepening the overall flavor profile.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the spices.
- Olive or Rapeseed Oil – Locks in moisture and promotes a beautiful golden finish.
Chicken Kebab Ingredients: A Perfect Harmony of Flavor
Chicken Thighs – The foundation of these kebabs, offering unmatched juiciness and tenderness, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Buttermilk or Yogurt – A rich, tangy marinade base that tenderizes the meat, infusing it with a subtle creaminess while enhancing the spice blend.
Sweet Paprika & Cumin – A dynamic duo delivering warmth, smokiness, and earthy depth, creating the signature aromatic profile of these kebabs.
Aleppo Chili Flakes – A mild yet complex heat with fruity undertones, adding just the right amount of spice without overpowering the dish.
Garlic & Lemon Zest – A bold combination that brightens the marinade, balancing richness with a fresh, zesty punch for irresistible depth.
Olive Oil – A final touch of silkiness, locking in moisture and ensuring a beautifully golden, flavorful sear on the grill or air fryer.
Chicken Kebab Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs – ideal for succulent and juicy kebabs.
- For the Marinade
- Buttermilk or natural yogurt – ensures tenderness while enhancing flavor absorption.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest – brightens the marinade with a citrusy zing.
- Garlic cloves minced – adds depth and a rich, savory aroma.
- Sweet paprika – delivers a mild smoky sweetness.
- Ground cumin – imparts a warm earthy undertone.
- Aleppo chili flakes or dried chili flakes – introduces a balanced, mild heat.
- Ground cinnamon – lends a subtle hint of warmth and complexity.
- Salt and ground black pepper – essential for seasoning and enhancing taste.
- Olive oil or rapeseed oil – aids in moisture retention and creates a golden finish.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk or yogurt, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, and all the spices. Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, ideally up to 6 hours, for optimal flavor infusion. If time is limited, a 30-minute marinade will suffice, though a longer duration yields better results.
- Thread Meat onto Skewers
- Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, arranging them closely but not overcrowding. Lightly mist with olive or rapeseed oil to enhance browning and prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Kebabs
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for a few minutes. Spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the skewers in a single layer. Depending on the air fryer’s capacity, cooking may need to be done in batches. Cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping the kebabs midway to ensure even cooking.
- To Oven Cook
- Arrange the skewers on a wire rack placed over a baking tray to allow even heat circulation. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 30 minutes, turning them occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness—the internal temperature should reach at least 75°C (165°F), though a slightly higher temperature of 85°C (185°F) yields an ideal texture.
- Grilling Chicken Kebabs on the Barbecue
- For grilling over charcoal or gas, preheat to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers over direct heat, turning them frequently to achieve even browning. Cook for approximately 15–20 minutes until golden and thoroughly cooked.
- Serving Suggestions
- Serve these delicious kebabs with a fresh salad, warm pita bread, crispy fries, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy them wrapped, plated, or straight off the skewer for an irresistible meal.
