Grilled Chicken Adana Kebabs

Introduction

The first time I tried making Grilled Chicken Adana Kebabs at home, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. My family, usually picky eaters, couldn’t get enough of the flavorful, juicy chicken packed with vibrant spices and fresh herbs. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the tender meat made it a hit. Since then, these kebabs have become a staple at our family gatherings and summer barbecues. They’re not just delicious; they also provide a fun and interactive dining experience, as everyone loves to assemble their own kebab plates.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, stemmed and seeded
• 1 medium red onion, trimmed and peeled
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, stemmed and seeded
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
• 1 tablespoon red chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Prepare Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Process Vegetables

2. In a food processor, pulse the red bell pepper, red onion, garlic, and jalapeño until minced. Drain the mixture in a sieve to remove excess moisture.

Process Chicken

3. In the food processor, pulse the chicken until minced. Add the drained vegetable mixture, parsley, cilantro (if using), red chili flakes, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pulse until well combined.

Form Kebabs

4. Place the chicken mixture in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together.
5. After chilling, divide the mixture into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion around a 1-inch wide flat metal skewer, molding and flattening the meat to make each kebab about 6-8 inches long.

Grill

6. Preheat your grill to 350°F (175°C).
7. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
8. Place the skewers on the grill, laying them perpendicular to the direction of the grates to prevent the meat from falling off. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Enjoy!

9. Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken Adana kebabs with your favorite sides!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve kebabs with pita bread or flatbreads.
• Accompany with fresh salads, such as tabbouleh or Greek salad.
• Provide a variety of sauces like tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or hot sauce.
• Offer sides of grilled vegetables or rice pilaf.
• Garnish with extra parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch.

Additional Tips

1. Marination: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with the spices and herbs.
2. Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, to the skewers for variety.
3. Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, these kebabs can also be cooked in the oven on a broiler setting or in a stovetop grill pan.
4. Serving Style: Serve the kebabs family-style, allowing guests to build their own wraps with various toppings.
5. Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicier version.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a mixture of mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant, processed similarly.
• Different Meats: Try using ground lamb or beef for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as mint or dill, for unique flavor twists.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of hummus and pita chips for a complete meal.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber and yogurt salad to balance the spices.
• Create a kebab platter with different types of meat and vegetables for a fun barbecue spread.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Raw kebabs can be frozen before cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
• Leftovers: Cooked kebabs can be stored in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

• Yes, but chicken thighs remain juicier and more flavorful. If using breast, be careful not to overcook.

1. What if I don’t have a food processor?

• You can finely chop the vegetables and chicken by hand, though it may take longer to achieve the desired texture.

1. How can I tell when the kebabs are done?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

1. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to grill.

1. What can I serve with the kebabs?

• They pair well with rice, salads, and dips like tzatziki or hummus.

1. How do I prevent the kebabs from falling apart?

• Ensure you’re using enough chicken fat (thighs are best), and don’t skip the chilling step.

1. Can I bake the kebabs instead of grilling?

• Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

1. What type of skewers should I use?

• Flat metal skewers are preferred as they prevent the meat from spinning and falling off.

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

• It’s best to thaw chicken before processing and shaping. Frozen chicken should be fully thawed for even cooking.

1. What is the best way to store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Adana Kebabs are a delightful dish that marries the rich spices of Middle Eastern cuisine with the simplicity of grilling. Their vibrant flavors and tender texture make them a favorite at family gatherings and casual summer dinners. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions. Try them out and watch as they become a staple in your household, just as they did in mine!

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