Grilled or Broiled Chicken Kebabs

Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Grilled or Broiled Chicken Kebabs, perfectly seasoned and bursting with succulent goodness. This delightful recipe takes boneless chicken thighs or legs, cut into tantalizing 1.5-inch chunks, and transforms them into kebabs, showcasing the rich taste of dark-meat chicken. With a quick and straightforward preparation, these kebabs can be ready in about 30 minutes, making them a perfect choice for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to any gathering. The option to marinate the chicken further enhances the flavors, creating a dish that can be enjoyed right away or refrigerated to develop even deeper taste profiles over time.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: About 30 minutes, plus time to marinate

INGREDIENTS:

• About 11/2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or legs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
• 2 large onions
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 bay leaves, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh marjoram or oregano leaves, or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Lemon wedges or ground sumac (available in Middle Eastern stores)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by cutting the boneless chicken thighs or legs into 1.5-inch chunks. These chunks will be the star of your kebabs, providing the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. Additionally, cut the large onions into quarters, then separate them into large pieces, which will be alternated with the chicken on the skewers.
2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water while you prepare the chicken and onions. Soaking the skewers prevents them from burning during the cooking process.
3. In a large bowl, chop one of the onions and combine it with the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, crumbled bay leaves, and fresh marjoram or oregano leaves (or dried oregano). Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. The aromatic marinade infuses the chicken with enticing flavors, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
4. Add the boneless chicken chunks to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate for at least a few minutes, or for a more intense taste experience, marinate it for an hour or more at room temperature or even overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Once the chicken is marinated, thread the chicken and onion pieces alternately onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This careful arrangement ensures even cooking and beautifully presents the kebabs.
6. Now, it’s time to cook the kebabs to perfection. Heat a charcoal or gas grill or use the broiler, placing the rack about 4 inches from the heat source. Grill or broil the kebabs, turning them once or twice during the cooking process. The total cooking time should be around 12 to 15 minutes. To check for doneness, cut into a piece with a thin-bladed knife; the center should be white or slightly pink, indicating perfectly cooked chicken.
7. Once the Grilled or Broiled Chicken Kebabs are cooked to perfection, serve them with lemon wedges for a citrusy touch, or sprinkle them with a hint of ground sumac, available in Middle Eastern stores. These delightful kebabs are a true crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or a delightful family meal.

With the option to marinate the chicken, the Grilled or Broiled Chicken Kebabs offer the flexibility to enjoy them immediately or relish even more pronounced flavors after marinating for a while. The combination of well-seasoned chicken, succulent onions, and the fragrant marinade ensures that every bite is a burst of flavor. Whether served hot or at room temperature, these kebabs are sure to win the hearts and taste buds of everyone who tries them. So, gather your loved ones and savor the delight of Grilled or Broiled Chicken Kebabs for a memorable dining experience.