Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad
Enjoy a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal with Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad. Grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy tahini dressing make this dish unforgettable!
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Skewers
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Serving Plates
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp cumin (ground)
- 2 tsp coriander (ground)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup parsley (fresh)
- 1/4 cup mint (fresh)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken in SpicesTo begin the marinating process, combine the olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients together to create a flavorful spice blend that'll infuse your chicken with mouthwatering Mediterranean flavors.Have you ever wondered how professional chefs achieve such depth in their dishes? It's all about mastering the art of spice blends and marinating techniques.Now, add your cubed chicken to the bowl and gently toss it to guarantee each piece is evenly coated. You'll want to let this mixture sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you've got the time, why not let it marinate overnight? The longer you leave it, the more intense the flavors will become.Remember, marinating isn't just about taste - it also helps tenderize the meat. As you're preparing this marinade, think about how each spice contributes to the overall flavor profile. Can you identify the earthy notes of cumin or the warm sweetness of cinnamon?This attention to detail will elevate your cooking skills and impress your guests.
- Grill Chicken on SkewersOnce your chicken has marinated to perfection, it's time to fire up the grill and get cooking. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each chunk to guarantee even cooking.But which skewer materials should you use? Metal skewers are durable and reusable, while wooden ones can add a subtle smoky flavor. If you're using wooden skewers, don't forget to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.Now, let's talk grilling techniques. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. When it's hot, place your skewers on the grates.You'll want to grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to achieve that perfect golden-brown color on all sides. How do you know when they're done? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.Don't have a meat thermometer? No worries! Cut into the thickest piece - if it's white all the way through with no pink, you're good to go.
- Prepare Fresh Salad IngredientsWhile your chicken is grilling, it's time to prepare the fresh salad ingredients. Did you know that the salad freshness benefits extend beyond just taste? Fresh ingredients pack more nutrients and vibrant flavors, elevating your dish to new heights. So, let's get chopping!Start with your mixed greens. Give them a good rinse and dry thoroughly. Remember, excess water can dilute your dressing.Next, dice the cucumber, slice the red onion thinly, and halve those cherry tomatoes. Here's a pro tip: for ingredient sourcing, try your local farmer's market. You'll often find the freshest produce there, and you'll be supporting local growers too.Don't forget the herbs! Chop the parsley and mint finely. These aromatic additions will give your salad a burst of Mediterranean flavor.As you prepare each ingredient, consider how it'll contribute to the overall taste and texture of your salad. Isn't it exciting to create a dish that's not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes?You're well on your way to mastering this Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad!
- Assemble Salad With ToppingsNow that you've prepared all the fresh ingredients, it's time to bring your Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad together. Start by arranging a bed of mixed greens on each plate, creating a vibrant foundation for your dish.Next, artfully scatter the diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes across the greens. Remember, salad presentation is key to making your meal visually appealing and appetizing.Now, it's time for the star of the show - your perfectly grilled chicken kebabs. Carefully remove the meat from the skewers and place it atop the salad, allowing the juices to mingle with the fresh vegetables.For the finishing touches, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts over the chicken. Don't forget to add a generous handful of chopped parsley and mint for that authentic Mediterranean flavor.Want to explore some topping variations? Try adding sliced kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or even a dollop of hummus for extra flair.
- Drizzle With Tahini SauceTo elevate your Chicken Shawarma Kebab Salad, drizzle it with a creamy tahini sauce. This rich, nutty dressing perfectly complements the spiced chicken and fresh vegetables, tying the entire dish together.But what exactly is tahini, and why should you use it?Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, packed with numerous health benefits. It's rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium and iron.Don't have tahini on hand? No worries! There are several tahini alternatives you can try, such as Greek yogurt, hummus, or even a simple lemon-olive oil dressing.To make the sauce, whisk together 1/4 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and enough water to achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Drizzle this luxurious sauce over your assembled salad, allowing it to coat the chicken and vegetables. Want to add a personal touch? Try incorporating fresh herbs or a dash of cumin into your sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 667kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 59gFat: 37gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 9gMonounsaturated Fat: 17gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 162mgSodium: 535mgPotassium: 1881mgFiber: 7gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 3495IUVitamin C: 99mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 7mg