Kebabs are a popular dish enjoyed worldwide, featuring chunks of meat, seafood, or vegetables threaded onto skewers and grilled or roasted to perfection. Originating from the Middle Eastern cuisine, kebabs have variations in many cultures, each adding their unique spices and ingredients. They can be served with a variety of sauces, dips, or sides, making them a versatile option for any gathering or family meal.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Special Utensils:
- Skewers (metal or wooden; if using wooden, soak in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning)
- Grill (charcoal, gas, or electric)
- Basting brush
Appliances:
- Refrigerator (for marinating)
- Grill
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to marinate.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and create a hot zone and a cooler zone.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and red onions onto the skewers alternately. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers as this will help ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the hot part of the grill. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and vegetables are slightly charred. Use a basting brush to occasionally coat the kebabs with any leftover marinade during the early stages of grilling.
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
These grilled chicken kebabs are simple to make and delightfully flavorful, perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner at home. They can be customized with different meats like beef or lamb, and various vegetables according to your preference. Enjoy the smoky, savory bites of this classic grilled dish.