Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsShanghai Dumpling HouseSkewer Chicken Recipe

Skewer Chicken Recipe

Time1h 15m
Serves4

Make Skewer Chicken Recipe in just 1h 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Marinade

Method

Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare chicken

    Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into 1 to 1 1/4-inch cubes so they will cook evenly on skewers.

  2. 2

    Make marinade

    In a medium bowl whisk together the yogurt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, and honey (if using) until smooth.

  3. 3

    Marinate chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, stirring to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours. For best flavor, marinate 3–6 hours.

Skewers & Cooking

  1. 4

    Prep skewers and vegetables

    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning. While chicken marinates, cut the red bell pepper into 1-inch pieces and separate the red onion into similar-sized wedges. Pat vegetables dry and lightly toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.

  2. 5

    Thread skewers

    Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even heat circulation. Optionally alternate chicken with pieces of red pepper and onion on each skewer. Arrange remaining chicken pieces on skewers without vegetables if preferred.

  3. 6

    Grill or broil

    Place skewers on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning to get even char and a total of about 10–12 minutes depending on chunk size. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If using an oven broiler, position skewers 6 inches from the heat source and broil 4–5 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent burning.

  4. 7

    Rest and finish

    Once cooked through, remove skewers from heat and let rest for 3–5 minutes. Brush lightly with a little extra olive oil if desired and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken.

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