Authentic Turkish Chicken Kebabs

Name: Authentic Turkish Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 155 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yoghurt (full-fat); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 kg chicken breast (cut into 2.5 cm cubes)

155 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Experience the rich flavours of Turkey with these juicy and spicy Turkish chicken kebabs, perfect for grilling season.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

155 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Turkish chicken kebabs, or Tavuk Şiş, are a staple of Turkish cuisine that brings together marinated chunks of chicken grilled to perfection. This dish is a favourite for its simplicity and the wonderful blend of spices that infuse the meat with flavour. Our version of Turkish chicken kebabs captures the essence of traditional Turkish street food, utilizing a marinade of yoghurt, lemon juice, and a mix of spices to tenderize and flavour the chicken. Perfect for grill enthusiasts, these kebabs are sure to become a summer BBQ favourite. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to explore global flavours, these kebabs offer a delightful culinary experience with minimal effort. Pair them with a fresh salad or pita bread for a complete meal.

Instructions

Prepare the marinade

In a large bowl, combine yoghurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Pro tip: Ensure the marinade is well-blended for consistent flavour.

Marinate the chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Pro tip: Marinating overnight enhances the flavour.

Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 200°C (400°F).

Pro tip: A hot grill sears the chicken, locking in juices.

Skewer the chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces for even cooking.

Pro tip: Use metal skewers to avoid burning.

Grill the kebabs

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F).

Serve

Remove the kebabs from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving with your choice of sides.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavour.
Use metal skewers to avoid burning.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using them.
Serve with a side of yoghurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Turkish chicken kebabs unique?

Turkish chicken kebabs are known for their aromatic marinade of yoghurt and spices, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with rich flavours.

How long should I marinate chicken for kebabs?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for best results, marinate overnight.

What temperature should chicken kebabs be cooked to?

Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier kebab, just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I prevent kebabs from sticking to the grill?

Ensure the grill is clean and well-oiled, and allow the kebabs to sear properly before attempting to turn them.

What sides go well with Turkish chicken kebabs?

Serve with rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or inside pita with fresh salad and yoghurt sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Turkish chicken kebabs hot off the grill with a side of refreshing cucumber yoghurt sauce or a simple salad. They pair beautifully with a side of rice pilaf or inside warm pita bread with fresh vegetables. To make ahead, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator. Leftover kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet to retain juiciness.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

30g

Protein

12g

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