Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake them. Arrange skewers on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is cooked through.
DINNER
Kurdish-Spiced Chicken & Vegetable Skewers with Tangy Sumac Yogurt
Experience the vibrant flavors of Kurdistan with these delightful chicken and vegetable skewers. Marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, the tender chicken and colorful vegetables are grilled until perfectly cooked, then served alongside a bright and tangy sumac yogurt sauce. It's a wholesome and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Middle East to your table.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature.
02
While the chicken marinates, prepare the sumac yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sumac, minced garlic, and chopped fresh mint. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
03
Thread the marinated chicken, red bell pepper pieces, zucchini rounds, and red onion wedges alternately onto metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
04
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
05
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
06
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
07
Serve the Kurdish Chicken and Vegetable Skewers hot, with a generous dollop of the sumac yogurt sauce on the side.
About This Recipe
Experience the vibrant flavors of Kurdistan with these delightful chicken and vegetable skewers. Marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, the tender chicken and colorful vegetables are grilled until perfectly cooked, then served alongside a bright and tangy sumac yogurt sauce. It's a wholesome and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Middle East to your table.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the chicken marinade. Don't overcrowd the grill; cook the skewers in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and good charring.
Easy Substitutions
Feel free to use other quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or yellow bell pepper. Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs, but adjust cooking time as it may cook faster. For a dairy-free sauce, use a plant-based yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken and vegetable skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sumac yogurt sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these skewers with a side of fluffy basmati rice or bulgur pilaf. A simple cucumber and tomato salad makes a refreshing accompaniment. For a complete meal, offer warm pita bread for scooping up the sauce and vegetables. They also pair well with a light green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette.
Common Mistakes
Overcrowding the grill: This lowers the grill temperature and steams the food instead of searing it, leading to less flavor and char. Cook in batches if needed. Not soaking wooden skewers: Unsoaked wooden skewers can burn and break during grilling. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes. Overcooking the chicken: Chicken thighs can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) and then remove them promptly. Unevenly cut ingredients: If chicken or vegetables are cut into different sizes, some pieces will be undercooked while others are overcooked. Aim for uniform pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sumac?
Sumac is a tangy, reddish-purple spice made from dried and ground berries of the sumac flower. It adds a bright, lemony flavor to dishes.
Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the skewers just before grilling for best results.
How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the yogurt sauce.
MORE TO KNOW
Achieving perfectly cooked skewers involves balancing the cooking times of different ingredients. Cutting vegetables into similar sizes helps them cook evenly. For a deeper char and smoky flavor, ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the skewers. If using an indoor grill pan, ensure good ventilation. The sumac yogurt sauce can be made ahead of time and chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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