Introduction
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a deliciously spiced chicken skewers recipe that’s perfect for barbecuing or roasting. These marinated chicken thighs, infused with the aromatic flavor of baharat spice and fresh lemon, are sure to impress at your next gathering. Served with warm flatbreads and a dash of chili sauce, this dish promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 3 lemons
– 3 teaspoons baharat spice mix, plus extra to serve
– 100g natural or Greek-style yoghurt
– 12 small free-range skinless, boneless chicken thighs
– 2 mixed color peppers
– 1 red onion
– Olive oil
– 6 flatbreads, to serve (shop-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chili sauce, to serve
Prep Time
Preparation time for this dish is approximately 2 hours, but for best results, marinating overnight is highly recommended.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 55 minutes on the barbecue or 45 minutes in the oven. The total time, including preparation and marinating, can range from 2 hours and 55 minutes to an overnight wait for marination. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an excellent choice for a small gathering or family meal.
Enjoy your flavorful chicken skewers with the delightful sides and sauces!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Peel and finely grate the garlic into a large bowl. Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon, then mix in the baharat spice mix and the yoghurt. Ensure the chicken thighs are well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 2: Preheat Cooking Equipment
Prepare the barbecue for indirect cooking, aiming for a temperature of approximately 200°C. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F/gas 6.
Step 3: Prepare Vegetables and Chicken for Skewering
Tear the mixed color peppers into quarters, removing the seeds. Peel and quarter the red onion. Halve the remaining lemons. Thread the marinated chicken thighs onto 4 long metal skewers, alternating with pieces of the prepared pepper and onion, starting and ending with a lemon half. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil.
Step 4: Cook the Skewers
Cook the skewers on the barbecue for 55 minutes, turning them every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. If using the oven, place the skewers over a high-sided roasting tray with a splash of water and roast for 45 minutes, turning halfway through.
Step 5: Rest the Skewers
Once cooked, allow the skewers to rest for 10 minutes to retain moisture.
Step 6: Serve the Skewers
Slice the meat from the skewers and serve with a sprinkle of extra baharat spice, warm flatbreads, and chilli sauce if desired.
Notes
Marination Time
For best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight.
Cooking Options
Both grilling and roasting methods yield delicious results, so choose based on your preference and available equipment.
Vegetable Alternatives
Feel free to use other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for variation on the skewers.
Storage Instructions
Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken thighs with garlic, lemon, baharat spice mix, and yoghurt not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat. For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Indirect Cooking
Using indirect cooking on the barbecue helps prevent the chicken from drying out while ensuring it’s cooked evenly. Set your barbecue to maintain a temperature of about 200°C to achieve the perfect cook.
Skewering
Threading the chicken, peppers, and onion onto skewers not only makes for an appealing presentation but also allows the ingredients to cook evenly. Alternating between chicken and vegetables provides a delicious mix of flavors.
Resting
Letting the skewers rest for 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.
Serving
Serving the skewers with a sprinkle of baharat spice, warm flatbreads, and optional chili sauce enhances the overall experience and complements the flavors of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast, lamb, or even firm fish, but cooking times may vary.
What is baharat spice mix?
Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from a mix of spices such as black pepper, coriander, paprika, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Can I make this dish in the oven instead of on the barbecue?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 200°C and roast the skewers for approximately 45 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
How can I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F) to ensure it is safe to eat.
What can I serve as a side dish with the skewers?
These skewers pair well with a variety of sides such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice to complete your meal.
Conclusion
The marinated chicken skewers, infused with the vibrant flavors of baharat spice and complemented by the freshness of garlic and lemon, create a delightful dish perfect for barbecues or family dinners. The combination of succulent chicken, roasted peppers, and onions served with warm flatbreads and optional chilli sauce elevates the meal, making it a memorable experience for all.
More recipes suggestions and combinations
Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Marinate chicken thighs in a similar baharat and yoghurt mixture, then grill and slice. Serve in flatbreads with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce.
Lemon and Garlic Grilled Vegetables
Use mixed color peppers, red onions, and other seasonal vegetables, marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, then grilled until tender.
Spiced Quinoa Salad
Combine cooked quinoa with diced grilled chicken, roasted peppers, and a lemony dressing for a nutritious and filling salad.
Yoghurt and Herb Dip
Mix natural yogurt with garlic, herbs, and a touch of baharat to create a flavorful dip for flatbreads or fresh vegetables.
Citrus Marinated Fish Skewers
Replace chicken with firm white fish, marinated in lemon juice and spices, then threaded onto skewers with vegetables for a lighter alternative.
Chickpea and Spinach Stew
Utilize baharat spice to add flavor to a hearty stew made with chickpeas, spinach, tomatoes, and served with flatbreads for a vegetarian option.
