chicken shish kebab recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken shish kebab recipe

I’ve been making chicken shish kebab recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated from the Middle East, where it’s known as ‘shawarma’ or ‘doner kebab.’

It’s a staple in many restaurants and street food stalls, but I love making it at home because it’s so easy to customize and can be adapted to suit any occasion. The key to making a great chicken shish kebab is to marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before threading it onto skewers.

This process not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it easier to cook evenly. I like to serve the shish kebab with a side of rice, salad, or pita bread, which helps to soak up all the juices from the meat.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and assembling the skewers, which makes mealtime even more enjoyable. As a bonus, this recipe is also relatively healthy compared to other fast food options, since it’s made with lean protein and plenty of vegetables.

Overall, I highly recommend trying this recipe at home – it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Chicken Shish Kebab

4.6 from 697 votes

This chicken shish kebab recipe features marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection on skewers. Serve with a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 chicken breasts, cut into cubes

For the Skewers

Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
1 zucchini, cut into chunks
8 cherry tomatoes

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly.
3Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
4Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating with bell pepper, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
6Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
7Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
8Use tongs to turn the skewers occasionally for even cooking.
9Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
10This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Grill or grill pan
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

Tips: Soaking the skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill. You can also use metal skewers for easier handling and cleanup.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Shish Kebab Works

This chicken shish kebab recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

For example, you can swap out the traditional pita bread for gluten-free options or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or onions. The leftovers also reheat beautifully in the oven or on the stovetop with minimal loss of flavor or texture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shish Kebab

Q: What type of chicken is best for shish kebab?

The best type of chicken for shish kebab is boneless and skinless breast or thighs. You can also use a combination of both for added flavor and texture.

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating time can vary depending on your schedule, but aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour for optimal flavor penetration.

Q: Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal ones?

Yes, you can use wooden skewers if you don’t have metal ones available. Just make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning during cooking.

Q: What are some good alternatives to traditional pita bread?

You can serve the shish kebab with naan bread, flatbread, or even gluten-free options like cauliflower rice wraps.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it. However, assemble and cook the skewers just before serving for optimal results.

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