Chicken Kabab Skewers Recipe
Make Chicken Kabab Skewers Recipe in just 1h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Marinade
Skewers & Vegetables (optional)
Finishing Oil & Seasoning
Method
Marinade
Prepare marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and homogenous.
Combine chicken with marinade
Place the cubed chicken into a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix thoroughly so every piece is coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 3–6 hours. For best flavor and tenderness, marinate up to 8 hours. Do not exceed 24 hours.
Prepare skewers & vegetables
Prep skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. If using metal skewers, no soaking is needed.
Prep vegetables
While chicken marinates (or 20–30 minutes before cooking), cut bell pepper into pieces similar in size to the chicken cubes and break onion into wedges. Rinse cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Toss vegetables lightly with a pinch of salt, a little black pepper and 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
Assemble skewers
Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces so heat circulates. If using vegetables, alternate chicken with bell pepper, onion wedges and cherry tomatoes. For even cooking, keep pieces similar in size. Leave about 1 inch of skewer at one end for handling.
Grilling or Broiling
Preheat grill or broiler
Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). If using a grill pan on the stove, heat over medium-high until hot. For broiler, position oven rack 6–8 inches from the broiler and preheat to high.
Cook skewers
Brush the grill grates or grill pan with a little oil. Place skewers on the hot surface and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning every 3–4 minutes so each side gets color. Total cooking time is typically 10–14 minutes depending on piece size and heat. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If broiling, place skewers on a lined baking sheet and broil 4–6 minutes per side, watching closely to avoid burning.
Baste and finish
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush skewers with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil for shine and moisture. After removing from heat, let skewers rest 3–5 minutes to redistribute juices.