Name: Coriander Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ tsp lemon zest; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tsp ground coriander; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp Cayenne pepper; ⅛ tsp Cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1½ lbsss chicken breast; For Cilantro Yogurt Sauce:; ½ cup fat-free plain greek yogurt; 2 tbsp cream; 2 tsp lemon juice; ¼ tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp fresh cilantro; ½ garlic clove; dried ginger; salt and freshly ground black pepper

These coriander chicken kebabs are a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings together the warm spices of coriander and cumin with the zestiness of lemon. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, these kebabs are easy to prepare and sure to please any crowd.

Photos of Coriander Chicken Kebabs Recipe

When preparing this dish, you might need to venture beyond your pantry. Ground coriander, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper might not be in every kitchen, so be sure to pick these up at the supermarket. Fresh cilantro and fat-free plain Greek yogurt for the sauce may also need to be on your shopping list.

Ingredients For Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Olive oil: Provides a base for the marinade, adding moistness and richness to the chicken.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the marinade, balancing the spices.

Lemon zest: Provides an intense citrus aroma and flavor to the marinade and sauce.

Garlic cloves: Adds a pungent, spicy flavor to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste.

Ground coriander: Adds a warm, citrusy flavor to the chicken, making it aromatic and flavorful.

Ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy element to the marinade, complementing the coriander.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and vibrant color to the marinade.

Cayenne pepper: Provides a spicy kick to the marinade, giving the kebabs some heat.

Cinnamon: Adds a subtle, sweet warmth to the marinade, balancing the other spices.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the marinade and chicken.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a sharp, spicy note to the marinade.

Chicken breast: The main protein for the kebabs, it is lean and absorbs the marinade flavors well.

Fat-free plain Greek yogurt: The base for the cilantro yogurt sauce, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the yogurt sauce.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the yogurt sauce, balancing the tangy yogurt.

Minced garlic: Enhances the flavor of the yogurt sauce with a pungent, spicy note.

Dried ginger: Adds a warm, slightly sweet spice to the yogurt sauce.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season the yogurt sauce, enhancing its overall flavor.

One reader, Daven Cervantes says:

The coriander chicken kebabs were absolutely delicious! The marinade infused the chicken with incredible flavor, and the cilantro yogurt sauce was the perfect complement. Grilling them was easy, and they turned out juicy and tender. This recipe is definitely a keeper!

Daven Cervantes

Techniques Required for Making Coriander Chicken Kebabs

How to zest a lemon: Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outer yellow layer of the lemon peel, avoiding the white pith underneath. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves, then finely chop them with a knife or use a garlic press. How to marinate chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or container, pour the marinade over it, seal, and ensure the chicken is evenly coated. How to thread chicken onto skewers: Slide the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking. How to preheat a grill: Turn on the grill to medium-high heat and allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. How to brush a grill with oil: Dip a folded paper towel in oil, then use tongs to rub the oiled towel over the grill grates to prevent sticking. How to combine ingredients for a sauce: Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

How To Make Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Turn up your grill and get grilling on these savory chicken kebabs! It’s paired with a creamy cilantro yogurt sauce for a hearty afternoon meal.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Rest Time: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupolive oil
1tbsplemon juice
½tsplemon zest
2garlic clovesfinely minced
2tspground coriander
2tspground cumin
1tsppaprika
½tspcayenne pepperor less if you don’t like heat
⅛tspcinnamon
½tspsalt
¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
1½lbssschicken breastboneless skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces

For Cilantro Yogurt Sauce:

½cupfat-free plain Greek yogurt
2tbspcreamoptional
2tsplemon juice
¼tsplemon zest
1tbspfresh cilantrochopped
½garlic clovefinely minced
dried gingera fair pinch
Salt and freshly ground black pepperto taste

Instructions

Kebabs:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic cloves, coriander, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag, then pour the marinade over the chicken.
Seal the bag, then press the chicken into the marinade.
Allow to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Thread the chicken onto skewers.
Preheat a grill over medium-high heat.
Brush the grill lightly with oil.
Grill the chicken for 9 minutes, rotating once halfway through grilling, until cooked through.

Cilantro Yogurt Sauce:

Combine the yogurt, cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, cilantro, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl.
Serve the kebabs warm with the sauce, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes first.

Nutrition

Calories: 303.72kcal
Fat: 24.77g
Saturated Fat: 6.57g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.43g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.93g
Carbohydrates: 4.34g
Fiber: 1.04g
Sugar: 1.71g
Protein: 17.01g
Cholesterol: 56.82mg
Sodium: 312.74mg
Calcium: 61.84mg
Potassium: 220.78mg
Iron: 1.65mg
Vitamin A: 67.02µg
Vitamin C: 4.09mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Coriander Chicken Kebabs

When marinating the chicken, make sure to massage the marinade into the meat thoroughly. This ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender kebab. Additionally, if you have the time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor infusion.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Marinate in advance: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before. This allows the flavors to meld and saves time on the day of cooking.

Pre-cut ingredients: Chop the garlic, zest the lemon, and measure out the spices ahead of time. Store them in small containers for easy access.

Use pre-made skewers: Buy pre-soaked wooden or metal skewers to avoid the hassle of soaking them yourself.

Batch grilling: Grill multiple kebabs at once to save time and ensure even cooking.

Quick sauce prep: Make the cilantro yogurt sauce while the kebabs are marinating. Store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

Substitute Ingredients For Coriander Chicken Kebabs Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can complement the dish well.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest offers a comparable citrus aroma and flavor, enhancing the dish similarly.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove to maintain the garlic flavor without changing the texture.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin has a warm, earthy flavor that can replace the citrusy notes of coriander.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor profile.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth while maintaining the mild heat and color of regular paprika.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes provide a similar level of heat and can be adjusted to taste.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can mimic the subtle spice of cinnamon.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar salty flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor but is slightly milder and less pungent.
chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is lean and has a similar texture, making it a suitable alternative.
fat-free plain greek yogurt - Substitute with low-fat plain yogurt: Low-fat plain yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, which can complement the yogurt sauce.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, herbaceous flavor without the strong citrus notes of cilantro.
garlic clove - Substitute with shallot: Shallots provide a mild garlic flavor and can be used in a similar quantity.
dried ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Fresh ginger has a more vibrant flavor; use 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger for every 1/4 teaspoon of dried ginger.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar salty flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor but is slightly milder and less pungent.

Presenting Coriander Chicken Kebabs for Maximum Appeal

Marinate the chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic cloves, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Place the chicken breast pieces in a large resealable bag, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and press the chicken into the marinade. Allow to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Prepare the grill: Preheat a grill over medium-high heat. Brush the grill lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Thread and grill the chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill the chicken for 9 minutes, rotating once halfway through grilling, until cooked through.
Make the cilantro yogurt sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine fat-free plain Greek yogurt, cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, a pinch of dried ginger, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Plate the kebabs: Arrange the grilled chicken kebabs elegantly on a serving platter. Use a brush to lightly glaze the kebabs with a bit of the cilantro yogurt sauce for a glossy finish.
Garnish and serve: Garnish the platter with fresh cilantro leaves and thin slices of lemon. Serve the chicken kebabs warm with a side of cilantro yogurt sauce in a small dipping bowl.

Essential Tools for Making Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Mixing bowl: Use this to whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic cloves, coriander, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining the marinade ingredients in the mixing bowl.
Resealable bag: Place the chicken pieces in this bag and pour the marinade over them for even coating.
Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto these for grilling.
Grill: Preheat this over medium-high heat to cook the chicken kebabs.
Brush: Use this to lightly oil the grill before placing the chicken skewers on it.
Small mixing bowl: Combine the yogurt, cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, cilantro, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper for the cilantro yogurt sauce.
Garlic press: Mince the garlic cloves efficiently for both the marinade and the cilantro yogurt sauce.
Measuring spoons: Accurately measure out spices and other ingredients for both the marinade and the sauce.
Measuring cups: Measure the olive oil, yogurt, and cream accurately.
Knife: Cut the chicken breast into pieces suitable for skewering.
Cutting board: Provide a safe surface for cutting the chicken breast.
Tongs: Use these to rotate the chicken skewers on the grill for even cooking.

Storing and Freezing Coriander Chicken Kebabs for Later

Let the chicken kebabs cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the kebabs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the kebabs:
- Place the cooled kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Freeze the kebabs until solid, about 2-3 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the kebabs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen chicken kebabs will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen kebabs, you can either:
- Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Place the frozen kebabs directly in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
The cilantro yogurt sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It is not recommended to freeze the sauce, as the texture may change upon thawing.

How To Reheat Leftover Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover coriander chicken kebabs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush the kebabs lightly with olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the kebabs are heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place the kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the kebabs are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a grill pan or outdoor grill, you can reheat the kebabs over medium-high heat. Brush the kebabs with a little olive oil and place them on the preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the kebabs are heated through and have nice grill marks.
For a flavorful twist, create a quick pan sauce to reheat your kebabs. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the kebabs to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Pour in a splash of chicken broth or water, and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the kebabs are heated through.
If you want to maintain the texture of the vegetables on your kebabs, consider reheating the chicken and vegetables separately. Remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and place them in separate oven-safe dishes. Cover the dishes with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Interesting Trivia About Coriander Chicken Kebabs

markdown The coriander chicken kebabs recipe combines a blend of spices like coriander, cumin, and paprika to create a flavorful marinade. The cilantro yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast, making it a perfect accompaniment to the grilled chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also a great source of protein and essential nutrients.

Is Making Coriander Chicken Kebabs at Home Cost-Effective?

The coriander chicken kebabs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like chicken breast, olive oil, and spices are relatively affordable and often found in most kitchens. The cilantro yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Coriander Chicken Kebabs Healthy or Unhealthy?

The coriander chicken kebabs recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and spices. The chicken breast provides lean protein, while the olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats. The spices used, such as coriander, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, not only add flavor but also offer potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The cilantro yogurt sauce is made with fat-free Greek yogurt, which is a good source of protein and calcium.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of cream in the cilantro yogurt sauce or replace it with more Greek yogurt to lower the saturated fat content
Add vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
Serve the kebabs with a side of whole grains, like brown rice or quinoa, to provide additional fiber and complex carbohydrates
Limit the amount of added salt in the marinade and sauce, and consider using fresh herbs or spices to enhance the flavor instead

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Coriander Chicken Kebab Recipe

This coriander chicken kebabs recipe is a delightful blend of spices that promises a flavorful experience. The marinade, rich with coriander, cumin, and paprika, infuses the chicken with a robust taste, while the hint of cinnamon adds a unique twist. The cilantro yogurt sauce complements the kebabs perfectly, offering a refreshing and creamy contrast. The use of lemon zest and juice in both the marinade and sauce enhances the overall brightness of the dish. Grilling the chicken ensures a smoky finish, making this recipe a well-balanced and aromatic choice for any occasion.

Enhance Your Coriander Chicken Kebabs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetable Medley: Complement your coriander chicken kebabs with a vibrant grilled vegetable medley. Imagine a colorful array of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, all kissed by the grill's smoky embrace. The natural sweetness of the vegetables will harmonize beautifully with the spiced chicken.

Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate: Add a touch of elegance with a quinoa salad studded with pomegranate seeds. The nutty quinoa provides a delightful contrast to the juicy bursts of pomegranate, while a hint of mint and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette tie it all together. This side dish brings a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the kebabs.

Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges: For a hearty and satisfying side, serve spiced sweet potato wedges. These sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection with a blend of cumin, paprika, and a touch of cinnamon. Their natural sweetness and crispy edges make them an irresistible partner to the savory chicken kebabs.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a mango avocado salsa. The creamy avocado and juicy mango create a delightful textural contrast, while a hint of jalapeño adds a subtle kick. This vibrant salsa not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the kebabs with its fresh and zesty flavors.

Cucumber Mint Raita: Cool things down with a refreshing cucumber mint raita. This creamy yogurt-based dip features finely chopped cucumbers and a sprinkle of fresh mint. It's the perfect way to balance the heat from the coriander chicken kebabs and add a soothing, creamy element to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Infuse your chicken with a zesty blend of lemon, herbs, and a touch of garlic. These skewers are perfect for a summer BBQ, offering a burst of fresh flavors that pair wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables.

Spicy Moroccan Chicken Kebabs: Take your taste buds on a journey with these Moroccan inspired kebabs. Marinated in a rich blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, these kebabs are perfect for those who love a bit of heat and exotic flavors.

Tandoori Chicken Skewers: Experience the vibrant flavors of India with these tandoori chicken skewers. Marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garam masala, and turmeric, these skewers are grilled to perfection, offering a smoky and spicy delight.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with these Greek chicken souvlaki skewers. Marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic, these skewers are juicy and flavorful, perfect with a side of tzatziki.

Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers: Sweet and tangy, these honey mustard chicken skewers are a crowd-pleaser. Marinated in a blend of honey, mustard, and a hint of soy sauce, these skewers offer a delightful balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Coriander Chicken Kebabs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these stuffed mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms is perfectly complemented by a rich filling made from cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. A touch of parmesan adds a savory depth, while a sprinkle of breadcrumbs gives them a satisfying crunch. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress with their elegant presentation and burst of flavors.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, then top them with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crispy bread and the fresh, zesty topping creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. This classic appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a chocolate lava cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten core that oozes out as you cut into it, creating a delightful contrast with the slightly crisp exterior. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration, this dessert is sure to impress.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Savor the tangy sweetness of a lemon meringue pie. This classic dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a luscious lemon curd, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. The bright, zesty lemon filling provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, airy meringue, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to a meal, and consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a light finish to a hearty meal.

Why trust this Coriander Chicken Kebabs Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of coriander, cumin, and paprika to create mouthwatering chicken kebabs. The marinade ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the cilantro yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch. With clear instructions and a balance of spices, this recipe is designed to impress. Trust in the quality ingredients and the step-by-step guidance to deliver a delicious meal every time.

Want to share your own twists on this Coriander Chicken Kebabs Recipe or discuss grilling techniques? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I usually let the chicken marinate for about 30 minutes at room temperature. If you have more time, you can marinate it in the fridge for up to 2 hours for even more flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and might even be juicier. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I don't have a grill?

No worries! You can cook the kebabs in a grill pan on the stove or even bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe has a mild to moderate level of spiciness due to the cayenne pepper. If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce or omit the cayenne.

Can I make the cilantro yogurt sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cilantro yogurt sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to serve.