Introduction

Charcoal Chicken Shop Chicken Skewers bring the smoky, savory flavors of street food right into your home kitchen. This simple yet flavorful recipe uses a well-balanced marinade to tenderize boneless chicken thighs, perfect for grilling or pan-cooking. Serve with fresh vegetables and your favorite sauce for a satisfying meal.

Charcoal Chicken Shop Chicken Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

800g (1.6 lb) boneless chicken thighs, cut into large 2.5cm (1″) squares

3 – 4 tbsp olive oil, for cooking

1 1/2 tbsp garlic powder (or 2 garlic cloves finely grated)

1 tbsp onion powder (or more garlic powder)

1 tbsp paprika, regular or smoked

1 tsp mustard powder (or 1 tsp Dijon or yellow mustard)

1 tsp dried oregano (or thyme)

1/2 tsp curry powder (a secret ingredient)

1 1/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt (halve for table salt, add 50% for flakes)

1/2 tsp black pepper

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice (or white/red wine vinegar)

Sauce options, flatbreads, seasoned rice, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, finely sliced red onion for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard powder, oregano, curry powder, salt, pepper, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice until it forms a paste.

Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to coat each piece evenly. Marinate for 12 to 24 hours for best flavor, though even 3 hours helps. You can also cook immediately if short on time.

Step 3: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, about 3 to 4 pieces per skewer, with 10 to 12 pieces per skewer total. You can skewer before or after marinating as you prefer.

Step 4: For stove cooking, heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to lightly coat the base. Cook the skewers in batches, about 3 minutes on each side, adjusting heat to avoid burning spices. Transfer cooked skewers to a plate, loosely cover with foil to keep warm. Wipe the pan with paper towel and add more oil for remaining batches.

Step 5: For BBQ, lightly oil the grill or flat plate. Heat to medium or medium-high and cook skewers for 3 to 4 minutes per side, adjusting heat to prevent burning the spices.

Step 6: Serve the chicken skewers with flatbreads or pita pockets, alongside shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion. Complement with your choice of sauce or add seasoned rice and a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have chicken thighs, boneless chicken breasts can be used but may be less juicy.

For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika and cook over charcoal or a wood-fired grill.

Swap lemon juice for vinegar to add a sharper tang to the marinade.

Leftover cooked skewers make great additions to wraps or salads the next day.

FAQs

Can I use wooden skewers for this recipe?

Yes, wooden skewers work well. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning during cooking.

What sauce pairs best with these chicken skewers?

These skewers are versatile and go well with garlic yogurt sauce, tahini, tzatziki, or even a simple chili sauce. Choose what suits your taste or try several for variety.