Fire up the grill and prepare for a flavor explosion! These Berbere Chicken Skewers are the perfect summer BBQ centerpiece, boasting a vibrant blend of spices and succulent chicken. The rich, complex Berbere spice blend, originating from Ethiopian cuisine, imparts a warm, earthy depth that will tantalize your taste buds. Juicy chicken marinated to perfection is threaded onto skewers, creating a visually appealing and incredibly delicious dish. Forget bland chicken – this recipe delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Imagine the aroma of smoky char mingling with the fragrant spices as these skewers cook. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, resulting in a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your grilling game? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create these unforgettable Berbere Chicken Skewers.
Tools Needed
- Grill
- Skewers
- Mixing bowl
- Ziploc bag
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Berbere spice mix
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Scallions
- Fennel
- Carrots
- Cucumber
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Dill pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken and Marinade
- Combine Berbere spice mix, plain Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, and chopped scallions in a bowl. This marinade acts as a tenderizer, so salt is not needed.
- Cube boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Using thighs ensures juiciness.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, seal in a bag, and toss to coat. Marinate for 2 hours (or 30 minutes minimum).
Step 2. Assemble and Prepare for Grilling
- Soak wooden skewers in water (or lime/orange/lemon juice seasoned with salt) to prevent burning.
- Thread marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3. Grill the Chicken Skewers
- Place the skewers on the hot grill, cooking for 3-5 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Flip when they easily release from the grill grates.
Step 4. Prepare the Side Salad (Optional)
- Thinly slice fennel, carrots, and cucumber. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Read more: Ethiopian Butternut Squash Stew Recipe: A Vegan Delight
Tips
- Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts for their juiciness.
- Don't overcook the chicken; aim for a nice char without burning.
- Adding other vegetables to the salad, such as beets or cauliflower, is recommended
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 450-550
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I make the Berbere chicken marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours, or even overnight in the refrigerator, will result in the most flavorful skewers. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor.
2. What can I substitute if I don't have all the Berbere spice blend ingredients?
While a full Berbere blend is ideal, you can substitute with a pre-made Berbere spice blend from a grocery store or online. If you're missing a few individual spices, don't worry; the flavor will still be delicious, though slightly less complex.
These Berbere Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a unique and flavorful twist on a classic BBQ staple. From the vibrant colors to the explosion of taste in each bite, this recipe is sure to become a summer favorite. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!