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Simple and Juicy Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs (Shish Tawook Style)

Close-up of perfectly grilled chicken kebabs featuring seasoned chicken chunks, red onion, and colorful bell peppers.
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Follow these straightforward instructions to make flavorful, moist Middle Eastern chicken kebabs, perfect for grilling or baking.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, toss to coat completely, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor and tender chicken.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent burning.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red onion, green pepper, and red pepper. Do not pack the ingredients too tightly.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for oven baking.
  6. For grilling: Place the skewers on the oiled grill grates. Grill for 12 to 15 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.
  7. For oven baking: Arrange the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. For air fryer chicken kebabs: Place skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  9. Remove the chicken kebabs from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra juicy grilled chicken recipe results, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
  • If you want a quick weeknight chicken dinner, you can use pre-cut vegetables.
  • Serve these flavorful grilled chicken breast skewers with a side of lemon rice or a simple cucumber yogurt sauce.
  • To make this an easy gluten free chicken dinner, confirm all your spices are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/chicken-kebabs-middle-eastern-shish-tawook-recipe/