How to Make Flavorful Grilled Chicken Skewers Like at the Charcoal Chicken Shop

How to Make Flavorful Grilled Chicken Skewers Like at the Charcoal Chicken Shop

I’ve learned how to prepare chicken skewers bursting with flavor, just like the ones you find at charcoal chicken shops in Australia. This dish is marinated with a rich blend of spices, creating a tantalizing crust that’s hard to resist! You can grill them on a BBQ or cook them on the stove, and they’ll be delicious either way.

What Are These Skewers?

Is there anyone else out there who is as obsessed with these special grilled chicken skewers from charcoal chicken shops as I am? They may not be the main dish at a meal, but I can’t get enough of them. Each skewer is packed with spices, forming a flavorful crust, and the aroma that wafts through the air when they’re grilled is simply mouthwatering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You might think the amount of spices in this recipe is a bit much, but trust me, if you use less, you won’t achieve that signature taste you get from the shops. One key ingredient I discovered is curry powder—this little secret I learned from a gyros shop owner in Melbourne.

For the Marinade

• 1.5 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (the secret ingredient)
• 1.25 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Preparing the Chicken

I usually use boneless chicken thighs because they’re juicier and more tender than chicken breasts. If you decide to use breast or tenderloin, make sure to marinate them for at least 24 hours to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Skewers

The process is really simple—just marinate the chicken pieces, then thread them onto skewers and cook them on the stove or BBQ. If you’re grilling on a BBQ, remember to use metal skewers or soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.

Cutting and Marinating the Chicken

Cut the chicken into large pieces, about 2.5 cm each. From each thigh, you should get around 6 to 8 pieces. If you’re looking to save time, you can cut the thighs into two long strips and skewer them that way. It’s quicker and easier than skewering each small piece individually.

Grilling the Chicken

Start grilling each batch of chicken over medium heat, cooking for about 3 minutes on each side. You’ll need to adjust the temperature to ensure the spices don’t burn before the chicken is cooked through. Lightly cover with foil to keep warm while you continue grilling the remaining batches.

How to Enjoy

Grilled chicken skewers are perfect for eating on the spot—you can pull the chicken off the skewer with your teeth! Or, if you have the space, throw a BBQ party with friends: serve them with rice, Greek salad, and sauces like lemon, tzatziki, or hummus. You can also make wraps with pita bread, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking takes around 20 minutes. You can make about 10 to 12 skewers, which are delicious and sure to please everyone.

Every time I make these chicken skewers, I feel a surge of excitement. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they’re also incredibly tasty—perfect for casual meals or festive gatherings. Give them a try today and savor their fantastic flavor!