Skewered Chicken Thighs In Cumin
Juicy chicken thighs marinated in cumin and lemon juice, grilled on skewers for a flavorful, aromatic dish perfect for summer barbecues or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak 15 to 20 wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and lemon juice.
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably longer.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers.
- Grill skewers for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. You can substitute Greek yogurt for buttermilk if needed; just thin it with a bit of water or milk. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or toss in some chopped cilantro for freshness. Make sure to soak the skewers long enough to prevent burning on the grill.
Serving Suggestions
These skewered chicken thighs are delicious served with a side of Vegetable Couscous Pilaf or a fresh salad. Consider pairing them with tzatziki sauce for dipping or serving alongside pita bread. They also go well with Greek Seasoned Chicken With Orzo for a Mediterranean-themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover skewered chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on a grill for a few minutes to restore their char.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skewered Chicken Thighs In Cumin contains roughly 203 calories, with 10g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (148% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1919mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but be aware that it may dry out more quickly on the grill. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, grilling for about 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked. Thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.
What if I don't have wooden skewers?
You can use metal skewers instead, which do not require soaking. If you have no skewers at all, consider grilling the chicken pieces directly on the grill or using a grill basket for easy handling.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, include cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade. You can also marinate the chicken with diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).