Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to savor a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines succulent chicken with vibrant spices and fresh ingredients. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that suits both grilling enthusiasts and those new to cooking kebabs, offering a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab recipe is a simple yet delicious approach to preparing chicken kebabs with a perfect blend of spices, fresh herbs, and vegetables. In this recipe, chicken pieces are marinated in a rich and zesty marinade made from ingredients like yogurt, lemon, and spices, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.

The chicken is then threaded onto skewers with colorful vegetables such as bell peppers and onions, making it not only tasty but visually appealing. Once grilled to perfection, the kebabs are ready to be served, making them an ideal choice for barbecues, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless): Chicken breasts provide a lean and tender base for the kebabs, while thighs offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative.
• Yogurt: Greek yogurt works best as it adds creaminess and acts as a tenderizing agent.
• Lemon juice: The acidity from lemon helps balance the flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the marinade with aromatic depth.
• Ground cumin: A warm and earthy spice that gives the dish an exotic, smoky flavor.
• Ground paprika: Adds a slight smoky flavor and vibrant color to the kebabs.
• Ground coriander: Provides a citrusy, nutty flavor that pairs well with the other spices.
• Fresh parsley: Finely chopped parsley adds a fresh, herbal note.
• Olive oil: Used to help create a rich marinade and prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
• Vegetables (optional): Bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes are commonly used to add color and freshness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors in the dish.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl: To combine and marinate the chicken and vegetables.
• Skewers: Metal or wooden skewers to thread the chicken and vegetables. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
• Grill or grill pan: A charcoal or gas grill is ideal for achieving that smoky charred flavor, but a grill pan can also do the job indoors.
• Tongs: To turn the kebabs safely and evenly while grilling.
• Knife and chopping board: To chop the chicken and vegetables into appropriate pieces.
• Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring out spices and ingredients for the marinade.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab?

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, olive oil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized chunks. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours for even more flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Slice the bell peppers, onions, and any other vegetables you’re using into chunks that can be easily threaded onto the skewers.
4. Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with the vegetables to create a colorful and balanced kebab. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip the soaking process; however, wooden skewers should be soaked in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.
5. Grill the Kebabs: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the kebabs on the grill, cooking them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the kebabs with your favorite sides such as rice, a fresh salad, or flatbread. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.

Expert Tips

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or even overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, making the kebabs even more flavorful.
• Use Bone-In Thighs: If you prefer more juiciness, using bone-in chicken thighs can help retain moisture while grilling. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as they will take a bit longer than boneless pieces.
• High Heat Grilling: To get that signature grilled texture and smoky flavor, ensure your grill is hot before placing the kebabs on it. This will give you a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken inside.
• Add a Twist: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables you use. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even chunks of pineapple could add an exciting twist to your kebabs.
• Rest the Meat: After grilling, let the kebabs rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness. The succulent chicken combined with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for an easy dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress. With a few expert tips and the right equipment, you can make these flavorful kebabs a regular part of your cooking repertoire!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab

Jamie Oliver’s chicken kebab recipe is incredibly versatile, offering a rich canvas for experimentation with various ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re looking to switch up the spices, add a tangy twist, or create a different texture, here are some simple yet exciting variations:

1. Herb-Infused Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the marinade. You can mix them with olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and honey.
   • Flavor Profile: This variation gives the kebabs a fragrant and refreshing twist, ideal for spring or summer grilling.

2. Spicy Mango Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Blend fresh mango, chili flakes, lime juice, and a bit of ginger for a tropical and spicy marinade.
   • Flavor Profile: This adds a zesty sweetness, paired with a fiery heat from the chilies. The mango softens the chicken beautifully, making it juicy and tender.

3. Greek-Inspired Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Use a combination of Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and dried oregano as the marinade. You could also add a handful of crumbled feta cheese for an added creamy element.
   • Flavor Profile: The yogurt marinade keeps the chicken moist while offering a tangy, herbaceous flavor reminiscent of Greek cuisine.

4. Curry-Infused Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Marinade chicken in a blend of curry powder, cumin, coriander, and coconut milk. For extra flavor, include a spoonful of tomato paste and a pinch of cinnamon.
   • Flavor Profile: This variation gives the chicken a rich and warm flavor, with a slight sweetness from the coconut milk and a savory depth from the spices.

5. Lemon And Mustard Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Create a tangy marinade using Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
   • Flavor Profile: The mustard provides a piquant tang, which complements the lemon’s acidity and enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.

6. Smoky BBQ Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and a dash of vinegar for a smoky, slightly sweet BBQ-style marinade.
   • Flavor Profile: The smokiness is what really makes this variation stand out, perfect for those who love a hearty, satisfying BBQ flavor.

7. Mediterranean Chicken Kebab

   • Ingredients: Use a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and red wine vinegar. Adding Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the skewers enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
   • Flavor Profile: This variation is savory and aromatic, offering an earthy, tangy flavor profile with a Mediterranean flair.

These variations elevate Jamie Oliver’s original chicken kebab recipe, allowing you to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. The key to success is ensuring that the marinade is balanced – not too salty, sour, or sweet – and marinating the chicken long enough to absorb the flavors.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftover chicken kebabs, there are a few best practices to ensure the quality and safety of your meal. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your kebabs:

1. Cool The Kebabs Quickly

   • After cooking, allow the kebabs to cool down to room temperature. However, make sure they don’t sit out for more than two hours to avoid any risk of bacterial growth.
   • If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the cooling process by placing them on a tray and spreading them out.

2. Wrap And Seal Properly

   • Once cooled, wrap the kebabs in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can place them in an airtight container. Both methods prevent them from drying out and protect them from freezer burn if you’re storing them for a longer period.

3. Refrigeration

   • Store leftover chicken kebabs in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3-4 days. The refrigerator should be at or below 40°F (4°C) to keep the chicken safe.
   • Ensure that your storage container is properly sealed to prevent contamination from other foods.

4. Freezing For Longer Storage

   • For longer storage, you can freeze the kebabs. To do so, wrap each kebab individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. This method helps prevent the kebabs from sticking together and ensures easier thawing.
   • Leftover chicken kebabs can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but for the best taste and texture, consume them within the first month.

5. Reheating Leftovers

   • When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the kebabs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. If you’re using a microwave, be sure to cover the kebabs with a damp paper towel to keep them moist, reheating in 30-second intervals.
   • You can also reheat kebabs on the grill, ensuring you don’t overcook them and dry them out. A quick sear on each side should suffice.

By following these steps, you’ll preserve the flavor and texture of your chicken kebabs, allowing you to enjoy them as a delicious leftover meal without compromising on quality.

What Goes Well With Chicken Kebab?

Chicken kebabs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to create a balanced and flavorful meal. Here are some fantastic accompaniments to serve with your chicken kebabs:

1. Crispy Roasted Potatoes

   • Roasted potatoes with a crispy, golden exterior complement the tender and juicy chicken kebabs perfectly. Season them with herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

2. Rice Pilaf Or Couscous

   • A fragrant rice pilaf, or couscous, seasoned with spices such as cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, adds a light and fluffy texture to your meal. These grains absorb the flavors from the kebabs’ marinade beautifully.

3. Grilled Vegetables

   • Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and tomatoes add a smokey and slightly charred flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors. You can skewer the vegetables alongside the chicken for an easy one-pan meal.

4. Fresh Salad

   • A crisp salad with ingredients like mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken kebabs. You can top it with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing or a creamy yogurt-based dressing.

5. Flatbread Or Pita Bread

   • Serve your chicken kebabs with warm, soft flatbread or pita bread to help soak up the juices and provide a satisfying texture. This also makes it easy to turn the kebabs into a wrap with your favorite condiments.

6. Tzatziki Sauce Or Garlic Yogurt

   • A cool, tangy dip like tzatziki or a garlic yogurt sauce is a classic pairing with chicken kebabs. The creamy texture of the sauce balances the spices in the kebabs while adding a refreshing note.

7. Hummus

   • Hummus is another creamy dip that pairs wonderfully with chicken kebabs. Its earthy flavor complements the grilled chicken while providing a velvety texture.

8. Pickled Vegetables

   • For a burst of tang and crunch, add a side of pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumbers or onions. The acidity cuts through the richness of the chicken kebabs and adds an exciting flavor contrast.

By combining one or more of these sides with your chicken kebabs, you can create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s chicken kebab recipe is a fantastic, adaptable dish that serves as a perfect base for various culinary explorations. Whether you prefer a herb-infused variation, a sweet mango twist, or a smoky BBQ flavor, there are endless possibilities to tailor the recipe to your preferences.

Pairing these kebabs with complementary sides like grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad enhances the overall dining experience. Plus, with proper storage techniques, you can enjoy the leftovers without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, chicken kebabs are a crowd-pleasing, versatile choice for any occasion.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Used In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s chicken kebab typically features boneless chicken thighs marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, and olive oil. The marinade adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy when grilled or roasted.

How Long Should The Chicken Marinate In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

For the best flavor, Jamie recommends marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, though overnight marination in the fridge yields the most tender and flavorful results.

What Type Of Chicken Is Best For Jamie Oliver’s Kebabs?

Jamie Oliver prefers using boneless, skinless chicken thighs due to their juiciness and flavor. They hold up well to grilling and remain tender after cooking.

Can Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebabs Be Cooked In The Oven?

Yes, if a grill or barbecue isn’t available, you can roast the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

What Accompaniments Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebabs?

Jamie often serves his chicken kebabs with flatbreads, pickled red onions, shredded lettuce, cucumber, chili sauce, and garlic yogurt. You can also add grilled vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How Does Jamie Oliver Keep The Kebabs Juicy And Flavorful?

Jamie uses a yogurt-based marinade that not only tenderizes the meat but also locks in moisture. Cooking at a high temperature for a short time also helps preserve juiciness.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab Recipe Suitable For Meal Prep?

Yes, the chicken can be marinated and even cooked ahead of time. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving. It’s great for wraps, rice bowls, or salads.

Are There Vegetarian Alternatives Suggested By Jamie Oliver?

Jamie often promotes plant-based alternatives. For a vegetarian version, try using halloumi, tofu, or mushrooms marinated similarly and grilled until golden.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Kebabs Gluten-free?

Yes, the marinade and chicken are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any flatbreads or accompaniments are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Does Jamie Oliver Recommend Skewering The Chicken Or Cooking It Whole?

Jamie sometimes stacks the marinated chicken thighs on a skewer to mimic a homemade shawarma-style stack, then slices it after cooking. Alternatively, you can thread the chicken onto smaller skewers for grilling.