Some recipes are pure nostalgia. Others are functional fuel. This one’s both. I started making these juicy chicken kebabs back when I was trying to eat clean without giving up bold flavor.
And let me tell you—these kebabs check every box: high-protein, low-effort, absolutely packed with spice and tang. Whether you’re tracking macros or just tired of dry, boring chicken, this recipe actually satisfies.
The marinade—made with creamy yogurt, warm cumin, cinnamon, lemon zest, and garlic—locks in moisture and coats the chicken in flavor. Once grilled, the edges char slightly, while the inside stays melt-in-your-mouth tender.
It’s that balance of smoky, tangy, and savory that makes this dish a go-to, especially when you’re meal-prepping or hosting on a weeknight.
Try serving these with a spoonful of Pink Pickled Onions for brightness and a generous dollop of Shack Sauce for richness. They’re both pantry-friendly condiments that elevate this dish without extra work.
These kebabs are gaining traction thanks to their versatility—you can grill, bake, or pan-fry—and their macro-friendly profile. In fact, chicken thigh recipes are on the rise as they offer 32g of protein per 100g without sacrificing taste.
It’s not just food—it’s freedom on a stick.
What’s So Special About This Dish?
- My Sunday Meal Prep Hero: I’ve been batch-cooking these kebabs every Sunday for months—they hold up so well in the fridge and reheat like a dream. Perfect for fuss-free weekday lunches.
- A Marinade That Works Fast: You only need five minutes to mix the marinade, but the flavor feels like you marinated overnight. It’s a lifesaver when I need a quick, bold dinner.
- Chicken Thighs > Breasts: Switching to boneless chicken thighs was the upgrade I didn’t know I needed. They’re juicier, more forgiving, and never dry out—even if you forget them on the grill for a minute.
- Fitness Goals, But Make It Tasty: These kebabs are packed with protein and low in carbs, helping me stay on track without giving up flavor. No bland “diet food” vibes here.
- Endless Ways to Serve: I’ve tossed them into wraps, pitas, salads, even lettuce cups—whatever I’ve got in the fridge. Super versatile and always satisfying.
Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl (for marination)
- Skewers (metal or wooden soaked in water)
- Grill pan or BBQ grill (or oven)
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 1 kg 2.2 lb Chicken thighs, Boneless and skinless and cut lengthways
- For the marinade:
- 150 g 0.75 cups Natural yoghurt
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 2 tsp Ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp Cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Dried chilli flakes
- 2 tsp Garlic granules (or 3 cloves of fresh garlic)
- 1 Lemon Zest and juice
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix yoghurt, lemon zest + juice, spices, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken thighs and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 mins.
- Preheat grill or pan to medium-high.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill for 6–8 mins per side or until golden and cooked through.
- Baste with leftover marinade for extra flavor (optional).
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with Pink Pickled Onions and Shack Sauce for extra zing.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 336kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 50g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 246mg |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Potassium | 751mg |
Creative Variations For This Recipe!
- Charred Citrus Glaze
Midway through grilling, brush the kebabs with a quick glaze made from reduced orange juice, a splash of soy sauce, and honey. It gives a caramelized, smoky-sweet finish that’s next-level. - Smoky Tandoori Vibes
Mix in a spoon of tandoori masala or black salt into the marinade and finish the kebabs over open flame or charcoal. That hint of smokiness takes them straight to street-food heaven. - Herb-Heavy Green Marinade
Swap the dry spices for a green paste of mint, coriander, green chilli, ginger, and garlic blended with yoghurt. It’s fresh, spicy, and ridiculously good for summer grilling. - Stuffed Skewers
Alternate chunks of marinated chicken with cubes of feta or halloumi. The salty creaminess melted in between the spicy meat is a surprise people will rave about. - Kebab Meal Prep Bowls
Make double the quantity and serve cold kebab slices over quinoa, roasted veggies, and a tahini drizzle. You’ll actually look forward to your packed lunch.
