Chicken Kabobs

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe with Allspice and Cayenne

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken kabobs are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for grilling season. These skewers are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite spices and seasonings. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, chicken kabobs are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of chicken kabobs can be traced back to the Middle East, where skewered meats have been a popular dish for centuries. The word "kabob" actually comes from the Persian word "kabāb," which means grilled meat. Over time, this dish has spread to various parts of the world and has been adapted to include a wide range of ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

8 bamboo skewers (12 inches)
1 tbsp oil
0.5 cup finely chopped onions
2 tbsp brown sugar
0.25 cup chili sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp allspice
0.5 tsp ginger
0.25 – 0.5 tsp cayenne
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves

How to prepare

Preheat the grill. Soak bamboo skewers in water for approximately 30 minutes.
Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until it is hot.
Add the onion and cook, stirring, until it becomes tender.
Stir in brown sugar, chili sauce, lime juice, salt, allspice, ginger, and cayenne. Remove from heat.
Cut the chicken breast in half lengthwise into 0.5 inch-wide strips (not cubes!).
Add the spice mixture to the chicken strips and toss to coat them evenly.
Thread the chicken strips onto the soaked skewers.
When you are ready to grill, oil the grill rack.
Place the kabobs on a gas grill over medium heat or on a charcoal grill 4 – 6 inches from medium coals. Cook for 7 – 10 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink, turning once and brushing frequently with the spice mixture.

Variations

Use different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the chicken kabobs.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for added color and nutrition.
Substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soak bamboo skewers in water before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Cut the chicken into strips instead of cubes to ensure even cooking.

- Brush the chicken with the spice mixture while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken kabobs with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce or tzatziki for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful kabob.

- Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the spice mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This will help the flavors to develop and infuse into the meat.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the chicken kabobs on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve them on a bed of rice or couscous for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the chicken kabobs with a light and refreshing white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve them with a cold beer or a fruity cocktail for a fun and festive meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kabobs on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 2%

Vitamin C: 10%

Iron: 6%

Calcium: 2%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Chicken kabobs are a good source of protein and are relatively low in carbohydrates and fats. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy and nutritious meal option.

Summary

Chicken kabobs are a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're grilling them up for a summer barbecue or enjoying them as a quick and easy weeknight meal, these skewers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Greece. I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking, and I spent hours watching my mother and grandmother in the kitchen, absorbing every technique and secret they shared with me.

One day, I stumbled upon an old cookbook tucked away in a dusty corner of our kitchen. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Chicken Kabobs. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering description immediately caught my attention, and I knew I had to try it out.

Excited, I ran to my grandmother, who was sitting outside in the garden, tending to her herbs and vegetables. I showed her the recipe and begged her to teach me how to make it. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed, and we set out to gather the ingredients we needed.

We started by marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and salt. As the chicken soaked up the flavors, my grandmother taught me how to prepare the vegetables for the kabobs. We threaded the marinated chicken, along with colorful bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and sweet onions, onto skewers, ready to be grilled to perfection.

The aroma of the sizzling kabobs filled the air as we cooked them over an open flame, turning them carefully to ensure they were cooked evenly. The meat turned golden brown, and the vegetables caramelized beautifully, creating a tantalizing display of colors and flavors.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I took my first bite of the Chicken Kabobs and was instantly transported to a world of culinary delight. The tender chicken, bursting with citrusy and herbal notes, paired perfectly with the smoky charred vegetables, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, Chicken Kabobs became a staple in our household, a dish that we would often make for family gatherings and special occasions. Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time adding my own twist and flair to it, just like my grandmother taught me.

As I grew older and traveled to different parts of the world, I discovered variations of the Chicken Kabobs recipe in various cuisines, each with its unique blend of spices and ingredients. I learned to adapt and incorporate these new flavors into my own version of the dish, creating a fusion of culinary influences that reflected my experiences and adventures.

Now, as I pass down this recipe to the next generation, I hope to inspire them to embrace the joy of cooking and experiment with flavors and techniques. Just like my grandmother did for me, I want to instill in them the passion for creating delicious meals that bring people together and create lasting memories.

And so, the legacy of the Chicken Kabobs recipe lives on, a testament to the power of food to transcend time and space, connecting generations and cultures through the simple act of sharing a meal made with love and care.