Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsIstanbul Kebab HouseChicken Shish Kebab Recipe

Chicken Shish Kebab Recipe

Time1h 15m
Serves4

The Perfect Choice

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Ingredients

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Marinade & Chicken

Method

Marinade & Chicken

  1. 1

    Make the marinade

    In a mixing bowl combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, sweet paprika, smoked paprika (if using), turmeric, black pepper, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

  2. 2

    Marinate the chicken

    Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours (overnight for maximum flavor). If short on time, allow at least 30 minutes.

Vegetables & Assembly

  1. 3

    Prepare grill and skewers

    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F / 200-230°C). If using a grill pan or broiler, preheat accordingly and lightly oil the grates or pan.

  2. 4

    Prepare vegetables

    Cut bell peppers into 1-1/2 inch pieces, separate red onion into wedges, and slice zucchini into 1/2-inch rounds or half-moons. Keep cherry tomatoes whole. Toss the vegetables lightly with a small amount of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.

  3. 5

    Assemble the skewers

    Thread marinated chicken pieces and prepared vegetables onto skewers, alternating chicken with pieces of bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and cherry tomato. Leave a small gap between pieces for even cooking. Reserve any excess marinade to brush on while grilling if desired.

  4. 6

    Brush and season

    Lightly brush assembled skewers with olive oil and sprinkle a small pinch of salt and pepper over the vegetables and chicken for extra seasoning.

  5. 7

    Grill the skewers

    Place skewers on the preheated grill over direct heat. Grill for 10-14 minutes total, turning every 2-3 minutes so all sides get char marks and cook evenly. Brush with reserved marinade during the first half of grilling if you like (do not brush during the last few minutes to avoid raw marinade on finished meat). Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.

  6. 8

    Rest and garnish

    Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skewers and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the kebabs.

Optional Sauce (Tzatziki-style)

  1. 9

    Make the sauce

    While the chicken marinates or while skewers rest, combine plain yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill or mint, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl. Mix well and chill until ready to serve. Adjust seasoning to taste.

  2. 10

    Serve

    Serve skewers hot with the chilled sauce on the side, lemon wedges, and optional rice, pita, or salad accompaniments.

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