Soulful Grilled Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Jujeh kabab is traditionally made with saffron, lemon juice, and yogurt, this adaptation for Soul food cuisine incorporates a blend of spices commonly used in Southern cooking. The marinade includes ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, which infuse the chicken with a distinct Southern flavor profile. Additionally, the grilling method is used instead of traditional Iranian methods of cooking. We alse have the original recipe for Jujeh kabab, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 4g, 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine buttermilk, vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Ensure all the chicken pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken thighs — For the juiciest and most flavorful results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs have a higher fat content, which keeps the meat moist during grilling.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling helps prevent them from burning.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade.
• Serve the grilled chicken skewers with a side of tangy barbecue sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the soulful grilled chicken skewers hot off the grill. They can be enjoyed as a main course alongside traditional Soul food sides like cornbread, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.