Growing up, the smell of grilled chicken kebabs was a constant in my household. My dad used to fire up the grill, and we’d all gather around, the air thick with the scent of smoky chicken and herbs. It was one of those meals that felt special but was simple enough to throw together on a weeknight. I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s chicken kebab recipe. It brought back those memories of carefree summer evenings, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how such a simple combination of ingredients could create such a satisfying, vibrant dish.
Jamie’s twist on the traditional chicken kebab elevates this classic meal with rich flavors, a touch of spice, and a knack for pairing ingredients that make the chicken tender and juicy. I’ve made it countless times since, experimenting with different spices, garnishes, and even serving it in wraps for a more handheld experience.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s chicken kebab recipe is all about simplicity and punchy flavors. The marinade plays a huge role in tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with a burst of freshness. There’s a balance of spices and citrus that gets the taste buds dancing. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s flexible-whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests at a BBQ, this recipe fits the bill.
- Chicken: Jamie recommends boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’re juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
- Marinade: A mix of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon make the chicken flavorful but not overwhelming.
- Cooking Method: You can cook these kebabs on the grill or in the oven, making them accessible no matter the season.
The kebabs are usually served with a light, tangy yogurt sauce and fresh vegetables-perfect for brightening up the meal.
Ingredients Needed
When making Jamie’s chicken kebabs, the ingredients are simple but packed with flavor:
- Chicken Thighs (boneless and skinless)
- Olive Oil
- Garlic (crushed)
- Lemon (juice and zest)
- Ground Cumin
- Smoked Paprika
- Ground Cinnamon
- Salt and Black Pepper
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Yogurt (for serving, optional)
- Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Red Onion (for a fresh side)
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab
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Prep The Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, crushed garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together to form the marinade.
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Marinate The Chicken
Cut the chicken thighs into chunks (about 2-inch pieces). Toss them into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least an hour (overnight is even better for flavor).
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Thread The Chicken Onto Skewers
After the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between the pieces so they cook evenly.
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Cook The Kebabs
Grill the kebabs over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Serve And Enjoy
Once the chicken is golden and cooked through, serve the kebabs with a dollop of yogurt and a side of fresh cucumber, tomatoes, and red onions. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I’ve always been fascinated by the science behind the ingredients that make Jamie’s chicken kebabs so tasty. Here are a few key ingredients and why they work so well:
- Cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor. It has a natural ability to enhance savory dishes and balance out richness.
- Paprika: This ingredient brings a smoky depth, especially when you use smoked paprika. It’s all about that subtle hint of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- Cinnamon: It’s the surprise element in the kebab. Cinnamon adds a sweet undertone that complements the savory notes of the chicken and spices, elevating the overall taste.
- Lemon: The acid in lemon helps tenderize the chicken while brightening up the flavors. Plus, the zest adds a citrusy punch that cuts through the richness of the grilled meat.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skimp on Marinating Time: While you can marinate the chicken for as little as an hour, the longer you let it sit, the more tender and flavorful the chicken becomes. Overnight marinating works wonders.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re worried about overcooking, a meat thermometer will ensure your chicken is perfectly juicy and not dry. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
- Wooden Skewers? Soak Them First: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Grill With Indirect Heat: If you’re grilling, use a two-zone cooking method-direct heat to sear the chicken and indirect heat to finish cooking without drying it out.
Recipe Variations
Jamie’s chicken kebab recipe is versatile, allowing for plenty of customization:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for thick slices of tofu or halloumi. These will soak up the marinade and grill nicely.
- Add Extra Heat: If you love spice, throw in some chili flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper into the marinade for that extra kick.
- Serve in Flatbreads: For a more portable meal, serve the kebabs wrapped in flatbreads with your favorite sauces, veggies, and herbs.
- Grilled Veggie Kebabs: Add bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions to the skewers. They grill beautifully alongside the chicken, adding a touch of sweetness and smokiness.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s chicken kebabs are everything you want in a meal-simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, as you can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste. Plus, it’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Every time I make these, I’m reminded of that time spent around the grill with family, the laughter, and the joy of sharing a good meal. There’s something timeless about grilling and eating kebabs, and this recipe captures that essence perfectly.
FAQs
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Marinade?
Jamie recommends mixing olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and a bit of honey to create a flavorful marinade. Let the chicken soak in it for at least an hour.
Can I Use Vegetables With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Recipe?
Yes! You can add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and color.
How Long Do I Grill Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebabs For?
Grill the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.