If you’re craving something vibrant, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Juicy chicken cubes marinated in a perfectly balanced blend of cumin, paprika, garlic, and lemon juice get grilled to smoky perfection, then paired with a cool, herb-infused yogurt sauce that brings the whole dish together. It’s uncomplicated, yet exciting—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels special whether you’re whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a get-together with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. You don’t need anything fancy, just a thoughtfully chosen lineup that transforms into something truly delicious.
- 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into uniform cubes to ensure even grilling and juicy, tender bites.
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt: Full-fat is recommended to give the sauce a rich, creamy texture that complements the spices in the chicken.
- 3 cloves Garlic: Minced and split between the marinade and sauce for a fresh, aromatic kick.
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy undertone that is absolutely essential for that signature flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika: Smoked paprika if you have it, to deepen the flavor and add a subtle smoky note.
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly and adds a lovely fruity richness.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness and a slight tang that ties the dish together.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Key for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper to taste: Freshly ground for a bit of sharp, spicy balance.
- 1 handful Fresh Herbs (Cilantro or Parsley): Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness when garnishing the kebabs and yogurt sauce.
How to Make Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by mixing olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins, infusing your chicken with deep, warm flavors that seep into every bite. The balance of citrus and spices here is what makes these kebabs truly unforgettable.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut your chicken breast into uniform cubes—this ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. Toss the chicken pieces into your marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, an hour or two will only deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Yogurt Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the plain yogurt with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt. This creamy sauce brings a cool, refreshing contrast to the spicy, smoky kebabs. Feel free to taste and adjust seasoning to your liking—this sauce is your chance to personalize the dish even further.
Step 4: Prep Your Grill or Oven
Heat your grill to medium-high or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. This little step helps keep everything safe and adds a nice presentation touch to your kebabs.
Step 5: Assemble and Cook the Kebabs
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each cube to ensure they cook evenly. Grill the skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally so every side gets that lovely char and cooks through perfectly. If you prefer the oven method, arrange the skewers on a baking sheet and bake until cooked through.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow your kebabs to rest for a few minutes after cooking—this helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite moist and flavorful. Serve them up alongside your creamy yogurt sauce and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that final pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley are perfect for garnishing these kebabs, adding a bright, fresh aroma and lively color. A light squeeze of lemon juice over the top right before serving can elevate the flavors even more, making the dish taste vibrant and like summer on a plate.
Side Dishes
These kebabs pair wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or warm, soft pita bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. For a refreshing balance, a simple cucumber and tomato salad or grilled vegetables work beautifully, adding crunch and freshness alongside the smoky chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve these kebabs on a large platter layered with fresh greens, sliced red onions, and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses for a sweet-tart contrast. You could also create small wraps with flatbreads, slathered with the creamy yogurt sauce, rolled up with a few kebab pieces and crunchy veggies—a fun, casual way to enjoy this Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked kebabs and the yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the chicken juicy and the sauce fresh. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for quick, flavorful meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking—just thread onto skewers after thawing. Place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within a month for the best taste. Cooked kebabs don’t freeze as well because the texture can change once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat the cooked kebabs gently using an oven or grill to retain their charred edges and juicy interior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Warm the yogurt sauce separately and stir before serving to refresh its smooth, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can handle longer marinating times. Just cut them into similar-sized chunks and adjust cooking time as they might cook a bit faster due to their higher fat content.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning or catching fire on the grill. This simple step is key for a safe and successful cooking experience.
Can I make the yogurt sauce vegan?
Definitely. You can substitute plain yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and plain to maintain the savory balance of the sauce.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for up to 4 hours in the fridge will deepen the flavor even more. Avoid marinating much longer than that as the acid in lemon juice can start to break down the chicken oddishly.
What if I don’t have a grill or oven?
No worries! You can cook these kebabs indoors on a grill pan or a heavy skillet. Just make sure to cook over medium-high heat, turning frequently to get a nice char without burning.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that’s both simple and full of personality. It’s perfect for bringing people together around the table and sharing something that tastes like it took hours but actually didn’t. I encourage you to give it a try and discover just how joyful and satisfying kebab night can be in your home.
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Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Tender and flavorful spiced chicken kebabs marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. Served with a creamy, herb-infused yogurt sauce that complements the smoky, juicy chicken, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (Cut into uniform cubes for even cooking)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for marinade)
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin (Adds warm, earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (Use smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (For marinating the chicken)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed from one medium lemon)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To season the chicken)
- Black Pepper (Freshly ground, to taste)
For the Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt (Full-fat yogurt is recommended for richer flavor)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for sauce)
- 1 handful Fresh Herbs (Cilantro or Parsley, chopped)
- Pinch of Salt (To taste)
For Garnish
- Fresh Herbs (Cilantro or Parsley, a handful)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Cut the chicken breast into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing well to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
- Make the yogurt sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the plain yogurt with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt. Adjust seasoning as needed to balance the flavors, then set aside.
- Prepare for grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the chicken on skewers: Carefully thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces to allow heat circulation for even cooking.
- Grill the kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are cooked through and slightly charred.
- Rest and serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with the creamy yogurt sauce and garnished generously with fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- For smokier flavor, use smoked paprika in the marinade.
- Marinate the chicken longer, up to 2 hours, for deeper flavor absorption.
- Wooden skewers must be soaked in water to prevent burning during grilling.
- You can substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for juicier kebabs.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the kebabs in the oven on a rack for similar results.
- Adjust the garlic quantity in the yogurt sauce based on your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
