RetSoup
Introduction
Grilled Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Toum Sauce offer a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for summer grilling or weeknight dinners. The tender, juicy chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, giving it an irresistible depth of flavor. However, what truly sets this dish apart is the addition of the creamy, garlicky Toum sauce, which takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, this recipe is the perfect choice. Additionally, it’s simple to prepare and will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love Grilled Chicken Kebabs
You’ll absolutely love this recipe because it combines the best of both worlds: succulent grilled chicken and a bold, garlicky sauce that adds an unexpected kick to every bite. The marinated chicken kebabs are grilled to perfection, and the addition of the Toum sauce complements them beautifully with its rich, creamy texture and punchy garlic flavor. Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides like a fresh salad, pita bread, or grilled vegetables. Additionally, the easy preparation and the ability to customize the flavors mean that you can cater the recipe to your specific tastes. Whether you’re a garlic lover or someone who enjoys a milder touch, this dish will be sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken Kebabs:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Toum Sauce:
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 egg white (or 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise for a shortcut)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Salt, to taste
Necessary Tools for Grilled Chicken Kebabs
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Grill or grill pan
- Large bowl for marinating
- Small food processor or blender for making the Toum sauce
- Tongs for turning the chicken kebabs
- Basting brush (optional for extra marinade)
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This recipe is very customizable, allowing you to make ingredient swaps or add some personal flair. For instance, if you don’t have chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, you could add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade. For the Toum sauce, if you’re short on time or prefer a shortcut, you could swap the egg white for mayonnaise, though the traditional version with raw egg gives a smoother consistency. If you want a more herby flavor, consider adding fresh mint to the marinade or mixing some fresh cilantro into the Toum sauce for an extra layer of freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
To start, place the chicken cubes in a large bowl. Then, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, although marinating for a few hours will bring out even more flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Toum Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the garlic Toum sauce. Begin by placing the garlic cloves in a food processor or blender. Add the egg white, lemon juice, white vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the garlic is finely minced. Then, with the blender running on low speed, slowly add the vegetable oil in a steady stream. The mixture will gradually thicken and turn into a creamy, fluffy consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and acidity if needed, adding more lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring they are packed tightly but not overcrowded. This will allow the chicken to cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken kebabs on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use tongs to flip the kebabs, basting with extra marinade if desired, for an added burst of flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve the kebabs with a generous drizzle of garlic Toum sauce on the side or over the top.
Pro Tips for Success
- Perfectly Grilled Chicken: Ensure the grill is preheated to the right temperature before placing the chicken on it. This will help achieve those beautiful grill marks and lock in the moisture. Avoid moving the chicken too much on the grill to prevent it from sticking.
- Toum Sauce Texture: If your Toum sauce is too thin, add a little more oil slowly while blending to thicken it. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a touch of water or more lemon juice.
- Marinating Time: If you’re short on time, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but the longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be. You can even marinate it overnight for a deeper flavor.
If you’re looking for another delicious chicken recipe, check out this Baked Chicken Breast for a simple and flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Toum Sauce are versatile and can be served in many ways. For a complete meal, pair them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad. Alternatively, serve the kebabs with warm pita bread, a simple yogurt dip, or a side of couscous or rice to soak up the flavors. Additionally, you can add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or a few olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Storing and Reheating Grilled Chicken Kebabs
- Storing: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The Toum sauce can be stored in a separate container for up to a week in the fridge.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If reheating the Toum sauce, do so gently on low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
FAQs – Grilled Chicken Kebabs
Q: Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give the dish a juicier and richer flavor, so feel free to substitute them if you prefer.
Q: Is the garlic Toum sauce spicy?
A: The garlic Toum sauce is not spicy in terms of heat, but it does have a strong garlic flavor. If you’re sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount used or substitute with a milder sauce.
Q: Can I make the Toum sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Toum sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: Can I use this recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes! This recipe is easily scalable for larger groups. Just double or triple the ingredients for the chicken and sauce and grill in batches.
Q: How do I avoid dry chicken kebabs?
A: To ensure juicy chicken kebabs, be sure to marinate the chicken well and avoid overcooking them. The key is to grill them just until they reach 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Toum Sauce are a perfect blend of juicy, flavorful chicken paired with the creamy, garlicky goodness of Toum sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of aromatic spices in the chicken and the tangy richness of the Toum sauce makes every bite a memorable experience. Furthermore, it’s easy to customize to your liking, so feel free to get creative with side dishes and garnishes. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover why it’s destined to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
For an in-depth recipe of Grilled Chicken Skewers with Toum, check out this Grilled Chicken Skewers with Toum (Shish Taouk) from Bon Appetit for more grilling inspiration.
