Chicken Shish Kabob Marinade: The Ultimate Recipe for Flavorful Grilling

Chicken Shish Kabob Marinade is the secret to transforming simple chicken into a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. As I prepare this delightful marinade, I can’t help but think about the rich history of shish kabobs, which have roots in Middle Eastern cuisine and have become a beloved staple around the world. The combination of spices and ingredients in this marinade not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also tenderizes it, creating a juicy and succulent bite that everyone loves.

What makes Chicken Shish Kabob Marinade so special is its versatility; it can be used for grilling, baking, or even broiling, making it a convenient choice for any occasion. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices creates a tantalizing aroma that fills the air, drawing everyone to the table. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this marinade is sure to elevate your chicken kabobs to new heights. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes)

Preparing the Marinade

Let’s start by making the marinade that will infuse our chicken with incredible flavor. This step is crucial, so don’t rush it!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and fresh lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon juice will help tenderize the chicken while adding a zesty flavor.
2. Add the minced garlic to the bowl. Garlic is a key ingredient that will give our kabobs a wonderful aroma and taste.
3. Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. These spices will create a warm, aromatic blend that complements the chicken beautifully.
4. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined. You want to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the marinade.

Preparing the Chicken

Now that our marinade is ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken. This is where the magic begins!

1. Take your chicken thighs or breasts and trim any excess fat. I prefer using thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well.
2. Cut the chicken into 1.5-inch cubes. This size is perfect for skewering and ensures even cooking.
3. Place the chicken cubes into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure all the pieces are well coated. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure every piece is covered!
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
5. Refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 4 to 6 hours. If you have time, marinating overnight is even better!

Preparing the Grill

While the chicken is marinating, let’s get our grill ready. Whether you’re using a charcoal or gas grill, proper preparation is key to achieving those perfect grill marks.

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing.
2. If you’re using a gas grill, allow it to heat for about 10-15 minutes. You want the grill grates to be hot enough to sear the chicken.
3. Once heated, oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to do this safely.

Assembling the Kabobs

Now that our chicken is marinated and the grill is ready, it’s time to assemble the kabobs!

1. Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. If you used a plastic bag, carefully remove the chicken and discard the marinade.
2. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. I like to alternate the chicken with pieces of bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color. Just make sure not to overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. If you’re using metal skewers, you can go straight to the grill. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Grilling

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Chicken Shish Kabob Marinade is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. The combination of zesty lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and a blend of spices creates a flavor profile that is both vibrant and mouthwatering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs are sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your kabobs with a refreshing tabbouleh salad or a side of fluffy couscous to soak up all those delicious juices. You can also experiment with variations by adding different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful and nutritious twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try marinating the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor infusion. I encourage you to give this Chicken Shish Kabob Marinade a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how your kabobs turned out and any creative twists you added. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy grilling! Print