Tandoori Chicken Skewers

3.50 from 6 votes

Flavorful Tandoori chicken kebab will steal the show at your next backyard bbq. Tandoori chicken skewers are loaded with juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful yogurt sauce before being grilled to perfection. Tandoori kabobs can be prepared in advance and are perfect for family meals or larger gatherings.

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Marinating Time1

Total Time1 25

Course: Appetizer, Main Dish

Cuisine: Asian

Diet: Gluten Free

Servings:

Author: Mariam Ezzeddine

Ingredients

1 cup yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon ginger and garlic paste
1 tablespoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 ½ lb skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch size pieces

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the ingredients to marinate the chicken: yogurt, oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, red chili powder, cumin, garam masala, salt, turmeric, and black pepper.
Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the chicken pieces to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers, pushing them until the end of the skewers. Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly distributed.
Preheat a griddle or grill pan over medium heat.
Place the chicken skewers on the griddle or grill pan, making sure they are evenly spaced. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning the skewers often to ensure even cooking and to achieve a nice char on the chicken.
Once the chicken is cooked through and has a golden color, remove the skewers from the heat.
Garnish the chicken skewers with freshly chopped cilantro and squeeze lemon wedges.

Notes

- Cut evenly: Cut the chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.

- Check for doneness: Using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.

- Marinate Well: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop fully.

- Pre-soak Skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning during grilling.

- Perfect Grill Temperature: Aim for medium-high heat for that beautiful char without overcooking the chicken.

- Basting Brilliance: Baste the skewers with any extra sauce while grilling to enhance moisture and flavor.

- Allow to rest: After grilling, let the kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring maximum juiciness.

- Prep the Grill: Brush a bit of oil on the grates of the grill or the surface of the pan to prevent sticking. This also helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.

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