This Low Carb Chicken Kebab recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing flavor. Marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, these kebabs are juicy and tender, making them a standout choice for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. With vibrant colors and a mouthwatering aroma, these kebabs are not just a meal—they’re an experience that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this low carb chicken kebab recipe for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is out of this world, with a perfect balance of spices that can be adjusted to suit your palate. Secondly, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Lastly, it’s a great fit for low carb diets, allowing you to enjoy a filling meal that aligns with your health goals. Plus, grilling the kebabs adds a smoky char that elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Tips and Tricks
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, aim for 2-4 hours or overnight.
- Cut your chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs in the marinade to create your unique flavor profile.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-marinated chicken from your grocery store to speed up the process.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the chicken kebab marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cut the chicken and marinate it the night before for a rich flavor. Assemble the kebabs and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. Alternatively, you can grill them ahead of time and store cooked kebabs in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Recipe Variations
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade.
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Try using different marinades such as a lemon-herb or a yogurt-based marinade for a tangy twist.
How to Serve
Serve the finished chicken kebabs on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Pair them with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with cauliflower rice or a low carb flatbread.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your kebabs with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing cucumber-mint lemonade. For side dishes, consider serving grilled asparagus or a Greek salad with feta cheese. For dessert, a light berry salad with a splash of lime juice will complement the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Leftover chicken kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked kebabs for up to three months. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, or reheat on the grill for a few minutes.
Equipment Needed
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl for marinating
- Tongs for flipping kebabs
- Meat thermometer to check doneness
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and adjust the cooking time as necessary. For a dairy-free version, ensure that your marinade ingredients are free from dairy. If you need it to be nut-free, double-check any spice blends you use, as some may contain nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for skewering. In the fall, consider adding butternut squash or mushrooms for a heartier kebab. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be swapped for dried herbs in the winter months.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How long should I marinate the chicken? Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for flavor.
Can I cook these kebabs in the oven? Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and cook them on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
What can I substitute for the spices? Feel free to use a pre-made seasoning mix or adjust the spices based on what you have on hand.
Low Carb Chicken Kebab
This Low Carb Chicken Kebab recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- 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, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 288Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 163mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 36g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making low carb chicken kebabs is not only easy but incredibly satisfying. Their versatility allows you to customize them to your taste, and they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a healthy dinner at home, these kebabs will surely become a favorite in your meal rotation. Embrace the flavors, enjoy the process, and savor every bite!
