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Turkish Chicken Kebabs

A delightful dish featuring tender chicken marinated in spices and yogurt, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Turkish
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons yogurt (Greek or natural yogurt) The creaminess enhances the marinade.
  • ¼ cup olive oil Adds richness and depth to the flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste Brings a touch of sweetness and color.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper For a subtle kick of warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adds a slight heat that can be adjusted.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Offers a classic Mediterranean aroma.
  • 1½ teaspoon paprika Provides a vibrant color and smoky essence.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Contributes an earthy depth to the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic (mashed) The fragrant garlic infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
For the Chicken
  • 500 g chicken thighs (or chicken breast) Choose tender cuts for juicy kebabs.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by dicing the chicken into 1-inch pieces.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, paprika, cumin, and mashed garlic. Stir until well-mixed.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the marinade. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the chicken pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour; ideally, marinate overnight.
  4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200℃).
Cooking
  1. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  2. Place the chicken skewers on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
  3. Remove from the oven, flip each skewer, and return to bake for another 10 minutes.

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. These kebabs can be grilled for a smoky flavor. Consider adding bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful presentation.