Liberian-inspired Spicy Grilled Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

In this Liberian adaptation, we have incorporated the bold and aromatic flavors of West African cuisine into the traditional Serbian dish, Leskovački voz. The original dish typically consists of grilled meat skewers marinated in Serbian spices. However, in this recipe, we have added Liberian spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili to infuse the chicken with a fiery kick and a unique West African twist. Additionally, we have paired the skewers with a spicy peanut sauce, a popular condiment in Liberian cuisine, to enhance the flavors and create a delightful fusion of Serbian and Liberian culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Leskovački voz, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Spicy Peanut Sauce: Spicy Peanut Sauce:
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Water (as needed to adjust consistency) Water (as needed to adjust consistency)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, paprika, chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
6. 6.
   While the chicken is grilling, prepare the spicy peanut sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, chili flakes, and garlic powder. Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
7. 7.
   Serve the grilled chicken skewers hot with a side of spicy peanut sauce for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — For the juiciest and most flavorful results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight marination is even better. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it tender.
• Spicy Peanut Sauce — Adjust the consistency of the sauce by gradually adding water until it reaches your desired thickness. If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the amount of chili flakes.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.
• Serve the skewers with a side of Liberian-style jollof rice and a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a complete West African meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Spicy Grilled Chicken Skewers hot off the grill with a generous drizzle of spicy peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color. These skewers make a fantastic main course for a summer barbecue or a flavorful addition to a buffet-style gathering.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter, placing them in a neat row. Drizzle the spicy peanut sauce over the skewers, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs and serve with a side of jollof rice and a vibrant salad for an eye-catching and appetizing presentation.