Chicken kabobs, a versatile and iconic dish, have a rich history and a widespread global presence that testifies to their immense popularity.
Rooted in Middle Eastern cuisine, kabobs have traveled far and wide, crossing continents and becoming a cherished part of various food cultures. The word kabob refers to meat that is cubed or sliced and then skewered, creating a convenient and flavorful meal that can be easily cooked over an open fire.
Here at Luna Grill, we are among the most well-known purveyors of these delicious skewered treats. Our renowned Mediterranean restaurant chain started in San Diego and specializes in creating healthy, fresh, and authentic Mediterranean dishes.
We take pride in our commitment to providing the tastiest and most nutritious Mediterranean food. While our menu features a wide array of dishes, one particular delight stands out: mouthwatering chicken kabobs. Our juicy, grilled chicken kabobs are a fan favorite for a reason!
This article focuses on sharing an authentic chicken kabob recipe inspired by Luna Grill’s menu. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, you’ll be able to enjoy these juicy, flavorful kabobs in the comfort of your own home.
What Are the Main Ingredients for Chicken Kabobs?
This chicken kabob recipe calls for specific ingredients to achieve that signature Luna Grill essence. For your convenience, here’s everything you need:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 5 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp of dried oregano
- ½ tsp of ground cumin
- 2 tsp of dried thyme
- 2 tsp of Kosher salt
- 1 tsp of smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp of ground black pepper
- ¼ cup of Harissa sauce (optional)
You might need a trip to a specialty store for the Harissa sauce, a flavorful, spicy condiment prevalent in Mediterranean cuisine. Or you can make Harissa sauce yourself!
Remember, the heart of this chicken kabob marinade and the overall dish lies in the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Always opt for fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and high-quality EVOO for the best flavor.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Kabobs?
First, cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-size, 1-1.5 inch pieces. This ensures even cooking time and maximum flavor absorption. Place these chicken pieces in a deep, airtight container, ready for marinating.
In a separate large bowl, combine your marinade ingredients. The olive oil serves as the base, helping to distribute the flavors evenly across the chicken and keeping it moist during cooking. Lemon juice introduces a bright acidity, while minced garlic, oregano, cumin, thyme, paprika, and black pepper build a robust flavor profile. The salt enhances the overall taste while also helping to tenderize the chicken.
Pour this marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring each piece is coated well. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes and a maximum of three hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, giving you juicy, flavorful kabobs.
When marinating, make sure to stir the chicken pieces occasionally. This will guarantee an even distribution of the marinade, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
The beauty of this marinade is its flexibility. Want it spicier? Add some chili flakes. More fragrant? Add some rosemary or basil. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can tweak the recipe to your taste, creating your own perfect chicken kabob marinade.
This recipe demonstrates that creating flavorful and juicy chicken kabobs doesn’t require a culinary degree or hours in the kitchen. With some simple ingredients, a bit of patience, and a love for good food, you can bring the vibrant flavors of Luna Grill’s chicken kabobs to your own dining table.
How Do You Prepare the Skewers for Kabobs?
The skewering process is a crucial step in creating delicious grilled chicken kabobs. First, your chicken breasts should be marinated and cut into bite-size pieces. This size allows for even cooking and ensures each piece is tender and juicy.
Next, consider your choice of skewers. Metal skewers are recommended for the most even and quick cooking, as they conduct heat and help the chicken cook faster and more evenly. They’re also reusable and won’t catch fire on the grill.
However, if you’re using wooden skewers or bamboo skewers, you can still achieve excellent results. Just be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
When skewering the chicken, aim for about four to five pieces per skewer, ensuring there aren’t large gaps between them. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly and cook the chicken uniformly. You can also alternate with veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion to add color and extra flavor.
How Do You Cook the Kabobs?
Now comes the cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375 F) for optimal results. The grate should be clean to prevent sticking, and lightly oiling the grates can also help. Place the skewers on the grill, turning them every four to five minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 F.
The total time on the grill should be approximately eight to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is golden brown and has some delicious grilled marks.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a grill, you can broil the kabobs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375 F, place the kabobs on a foil-lined baking sheet, and broil until they reach an internal temperature of 165 F; monitor them closely to prevent overcooking.
Once your kabobs are ready, serve them hot with a side of tzatziki sauce, or reheat them later for a quick, protein-packed meal. These grilled chicken kabobs make a delightful main dish or a flavorful addition to a Mediterranean-style salad. They are not only rich in protein but also provide a good amount of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and potassium.
The joy of this easy recipe is its flexibility. Switch up the veggies, try chicken thighs instead of breasts, or experiment with different marinades. The choice is yours! Regardless of how you make them, these kabobs are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or family dinner.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Kabobs
It’s important to note that eating Mediterranean food such as chicken kabobs isn’t just an easy way for a delicious meal. It’s also very healthy for you! The Mediterranean Diet is often regarded as one of the world’s healthiest eating plans, with heart-healthy oils and fresh vegetables. The more Mediterranean dishes you can incorporate into your diet, the better.
Chicken kabobs, with their enticing mix of seasoned, grilled meat and colorful vegetables, are a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. To enhance the experience, pair them with some classic Mediterranean sides.
A fluffy bed of aromatic rice makes a satisfying carbohydrate-rich base for the chicken skewers, soaking up any extra marinade and balancing the smoky grilled flavor. For an even more flavorful option, consider a lemony, herb-studded tabbouleh. This fresh, bright side dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Hummus, a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, is another excellent accompaniment to chicken kabobs. Serve it on the side for dipping, or spread it on your plate as a flavorful base. The monounsaturated fats in the hummus also help to balance the meal’s nutritional profile.
For presentation, you might lay your chicken skewers over a bed of rice or alongside a scoop of tabbouleh and a dollop of hummus. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few lemon wedges for added color and freshness. Don’t forget some warm, grilled pita bread on the side.
The Takeaway
Cooking is an art, and like any art, it requires quality materials. This chicken kabobs recipeinspired by ours here at Luna Grill emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, from the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the vibrant red bell pepper and aromatic garlic cloves.
Prepping time is an investment in flavor, especially when marinating the chicken. A good marinade infuses the meat with flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and delicious.
We’ve also touched on the benefits of using metal skewers over wooden ones and discussed grilling and broiling as cooking methods. Remember to keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken as it cooks. It should reach 165 F to ensure safety and perfect doneness.
Now it’s your turn to fire up the grill pan and try this recipe at home. Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, these chicken kebabs are sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with different veggies, marinades, and accompaniments. After all, the best recipes are those that have a touch of personal flair.
We encourage you to share your tips, variations, and your beautiful kabobs with us. And remember, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, cooking should always be about enjoyment and sharing delicious, wholesome food with the people you love. Enjoy this culinary journey to the Mediterranean from the comfort of your home!
Remember to keep an eye on your nutritional values as you cook, considering the amount of kcal, carbohydrates, and fats. This recipe can easily be adapted to be gluten-free or lower in saturated fat and trans fats by choosing your ingredients wisely. Happy grilling!
Sources:
The 1000-Year History Of The Kebab On Your Plate | Indian Times
How to Grill Kabobs and Skewers | Almanac
Tzatziki Recipe | Food and Wine
Diet Review: Mediterranean Diet | The Nutrition Source | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
