Turkish Chicken Kebabs
A delightful blend of tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices and yogurt, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the marinade
- 3 tablespoons yogurt (Greek or natural yogurt) Helps tenderize the chicken
- ¼ cup olive oil Fragrant and adds moisture
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste Provides deep flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes For heat
- 1 teaspoon oregano Essential for Mediterranean flavor
- 1½ teaspoon paprika Adds color and sweetness
- 1 teaspoon cumin Introduces earthy aroma
- 3 cloves garlic (mashed) Infuses distinct flavor
For the chicken
- 500 g chicken thighs (or chicken breast) Juicy pieces for grilling
Instructions
Preparation
- Dice the chicken into about 1-inch pieces, ensuring to remove bones if using bone-in thighs.
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, and mashed garlic to make the marinade.
- Add the diced chicken to the marinade and coat well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least one hour, preferably overnight.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃).
Cooking
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers with space between each piece.
- Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes, flip, and continue baking for another 10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Notes
For maximum flavor, marinate overnight. These kebabs can also be grilled on a barbecue for a smoky flavor. Excellent when served with rice, salad, or in pita bread.