Sumac-spiced grilled chicken skewers offer a delightful combination of smoky and tart flavors. Marinated in a mix of sumac, olive oil, garlic, and spices, the chicken is tender and juicy when grilled. Accompanied by cooling tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and herbs, this dish is perfect for summer gatherings. These skewers can be served with pita bread or over a bed of grain for a complete meal. More tips and serving suggestions await to enhance your culinary experience.
Ingredients for Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and aromatic dish that highlights the tangy, citrusy notes of sumac. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners, and it appeals to both meat lovers and those seeking bold flavors.
With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes (plus marinating time), these skewers can be grilled to perfection and served alongside fresh salads or dips.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced (for marinade) and wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the sumac, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve the skewers hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy them with pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad.
Variations and Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding bell pepper, onion, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
- If you want to spice it up, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes in the marinade.
- Marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor profile.
- For a smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
- These skewers also work well in an oven broiler if a grill is not available; just place them on a baking sheet and broil for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
Preparing the Chicken Marinade
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delectable dish that showcases a perfect balance of zesty flavors and aromatic spices, making them ideal for family gatherings, barbecues, or casual weeknight dinners. This dish comes together quickly and requires just about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus some marinating time to allow the flavors to meld beautifully into the chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wood)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, sumac, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to form a marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove from the grill and allow the skewers to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, pita bread, or a cool salad.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
- You can mix in vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers for a colorful and nutritious addition.
- If grilling is not an option, these skewers can also be baked in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
- For a more robust flavor, try adding a tablespoon of yogurt to the marinade, which will help to tenderize the chicken while adding creaminess.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce or a crisp cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Marinating the Chicken
These sumac-spiced grilled chicken skewers are a delightful and aromatic dish perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
With bright, tangy flavors from the sumac combined with the juicy tenderness of chicken, they are bound to impress family and friends alike. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, plus at least 1 hour for marinating, making it an easy yet impressive meal option.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Cooking Steps:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, sumac, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making certain they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they are soaked to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro to the marinade.
- Serve the skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If you’d like to add some vegetables, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion make excellent additions to the skewers. Simply cut them into similar-sized pieces and alternate with the chicken on the skewers.
- Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and are great for quick lunches or snacks.
Making the Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a invigorating and tangy Greek condiment that perfectly complements grilled meats, particularly sumac-spiced chicken skewers.
It’s a great addition to summer barbecues or casual family dinners and is sure to please anyone who enjoys bold flavors. This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy option for enhancing your grilled dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Steps:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and grated cucumber. Remember to squeeze as much liquid from the cucumber as possible to avoid a watery sauce.
- Add the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped dill (or mint) to the bowl.
- Stir everything together until well mixed and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust flavors as necessary by adding more lemon juice or herbs.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Variations and Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Substitute dill with fresh mint for a minty variation, which pairs beautifully with the chicken skewers.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream with the Greek yogurt.
- Tzatziki can be made a day ahead, giving the flavors even more time to develop.
- Serve the sauce with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a dressing for salads for an added zing.
Assembling the Skewers
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines zesty sumac with marinated chicken for a delightful grilling experience. Perfect for serving at summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a casual weeknight dinner, these skewers offer a delicious blend of Middle Eastern spices that everyone will love.
The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional marinating period of 30 minutes to 2 hours, and cooking time of around 10-15 minutes on the grill.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional: bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor
Cooking Steps
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sumac, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and ground cumin. Add the cubed chicken and toss until well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for best flavor.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper, onions, or cherry tomatoes if desired. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh salad.
Variations and Tips
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different flavors and textures.
- Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus to the skewers for added nutrition and taste.
- Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sumac and spices according to your taste preference; for a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Herb Garnish: Garnish the skewers with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving for an extra pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Dips: Pair these skewers with garlic yogurt sauce or hummus for dipping and extra flavor.
Enjoy your Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers at any gathering; they’re sure to impress!
Prepping the Grill
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful and flavorful dish perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. The vibrant tang of sumac combined with tender chicken makes for a winning combination that’s bound to impress.
This recipe takes around 15 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to grill, making it a relatively quick option for those who love cooking outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons sumac spice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Wooden or metal skewers
Cooking Steps:
- Prep the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sumac, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Toss to make certain the chicken is well coated in the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables.
Variations, Tips:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the skewers for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to guarantee even cooking.
- Herb Enhancements: If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the marinade.
- Oven Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 450°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the skewers with a yogurt-based sauce or tzatziki to balance the spices and add a cooling element to the dish.
Grilling the Chicken Skewers
Grilling Sumac-Spiced Chicken Skewers is a delightful way to impart vibrant flavors to succulent pieces of chicken. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. With a preparation time of approximately 20 minutes (and an additional marinating time of 1 hour), these skewers provide a quick yet impressive meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those who appreciate Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Cooking Steps:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix together sumac, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Add the cubes of chicken, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Skewer the Chicken: Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your sumac-spiced chicken skewers with sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Variations and Tips:
- Vegetable Additions: Consider adding bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for additional flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into similar size pieces as the chicken for even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: These skewers pair well with tahini sauce, yogurt sauce, or hummus. Serve them with pita bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for some heat.
- Leftover Storage: If you have leftover skewers, they can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making them a great option for meal prep. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the tangy zest of sumac with tender, juicy chicken, perfect for summertime barbecues or casual gatherings.
These skewers are ideal for families, friends, or anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal, with a preparation time of about 20 minutes, plus an additional time for marinating the chicken for enhanced flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional: Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for skewering
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, ground sumac, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece. Optionally, alternate with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for added color and flavor.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
- Remove skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips:
- For a different flavor profile, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the marinade.
- Serve the skewers over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a complete meal, or alongside a revitalizing Greek salad for a light dinner.
- Pair with a yogurt sauce for dipping, made by mixing plain yogurt with cucumber, garlic, and a pinch of salt for a cool contrast to the spices.
- If you prefer oven-baked skewers, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Storing Leftovers
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful dish that makes for an excellent meal for a gathering or a light dinner at home. With a preparation time of just around 30 minutes, it is perfect for those who love grilling and want to add a zesty twist to their chicken.
These skewers not only delight the taste buds but also leave room for a quick and easy way to store any leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish even after the main event.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Cooking Steps:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, sumac, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
- Preheat the Grill: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of tabbouleh or a simple green salad.
Variations & Tips:
- Vegetable Skewers: Add a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes alongside the chicken for added color and nutrition.
- Storage: To store any leftover skewers, let them cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on a grill for a few minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing Leftovers: For longer storage, wrap individual skewers in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thawed skewers can be reheated directly from frozen, increasing cooking time.
- Serving Ideas: Leftover chicken skewers can be chopped and added to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a quick meal.
Variations and Tips
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for summer barbecues or a delightful weeknight dinner. This recipe showcases tender marinated chicken infused with the tartness of sumac, making it ideal for both family gatherings and dinner parties.
Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, plus 1 hour of marination, and grilling takes about 10-15 minutes, so you can have this delicious dish ready in under two hours.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-size pieces and placing them in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sumac, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, packing them closely but not too tightly.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini pieces to the skewers for added flavor and nutrition—just remember to cut them into sizes similar to the chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Spice Level: To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the marinade.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the skewers alongside a rejuvenating yogurt sauce or tzatziki, along with pita bread and a tabbouleh salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are delicious cold or can be reheated in a skillet.
- Skewering Technique: For added presentation, alternate pieces of chicken with vegetables or even cherry tomatoes on the skewers for color and variety.
