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Flavorful Turkish Chicken Kebabs Recipe with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Dip

Turkish chicken kebabs - featured image
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Juicy, smoky Turkish chicken kebabs marinated in a blend of spices and served with a cool, tangy creamy garlic yogurt dip. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon ground sumac (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Dip:
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, sumac (if using), dried oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Marinate the Chicken (at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours): Add cubed chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate.
  3. Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Dip (while chicken marinates): Mix Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning and refrigerate.
  4. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan (5 minutes): Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface.
  5. Skewer the Chicken (5 minutes): Thread marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces.
  6. Grill the Kebabs (10-12 minutes): Cook skewers on grill or pan for 5-6 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Move skewers if flare-ups occur.
  7. Rest and Serve (2 minutes): Remove kebabs from heat and let rest. Serve hot with creamy garlic yogurt dip, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for tenderness; longer marinating up to 4 hours enhances flavor. Use chicken thighs for juiciness. If no grill available, broil in oven for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway. Garlic yogurt dip can be made ahead and stirred before serving. Watch grill heat to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkish chicken kebabs, garlic yogurt dip, grilled chicken, Mediterranean, easy dinner, healthy chicken recipe, yogurt marinade

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