Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tavuk Sis, a Turkish chicken kebab, is a vibrant dish that brings the perfect combination of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. Marinated in a spicy red pepper sauce with hints of mint, paprika, and cayenne, this kebab is grilled to perfection. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The addition of fresh mint and a lemony sauce on top brings an irresistible freshness that complements the grilled chicken.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup roasted red pepper, drained and patted dry
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 jalapeno peppers, stemmed, seeded, and chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp dried mint
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch strips
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Directions
- Make the Marinade: In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, jalapeno peppers, olive oil, dried mint, paprika, cayenne pepper, honey, tomato paste, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Process until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Measure 3 tablespoons of the marinade into a small bowl, stir in lemon juice, cover, and refrigerate to use as sauce. Transfer the remaining marinade to a medium-sized bowl, add the chicken strips, and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat the barbecue by setting it to high heat. Let it warm for 7-10 minutes, then clean the grate and remove the reserved sauce from the fridge.
- Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: While the grill heats up, thread the marinated chicken strips onto 8 wooden skewers.
- Grill the Chicken: Turn the barbecue burners to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the chicken is evenly charred, about 10-12 minutes in total.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked kebabs to a serving platter. Stir fresh mint into the reserved sauce and serve it alongside the hot kebabs.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Variations
- Spicy Adjustments: Increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper to adjust the heat level to your liking.
- Herb Variations: If you don’t have dried mint, you can substitute with dried oregano or thyme for a slightly different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on a grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative to thighs. Just make sure not to overcook the breasts as they can become dry.
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! The marinade can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It’ll allow the flavors to meld even more.
What can I serve these kebabs with?
Tavuk Sis pairs wonderfully with rice, flatbreads, or a fresh salad like tabbouleh or a simple cucumber-tomato salad.
How do I ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out while grilling?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken. The marinade helps keep it moist, and cooking on medium-high heat ensures a perfect balance of char on the outside while keeping it juicy inside.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you want a grilled effect, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end.
Conclusion
Tavuk Sis (Turkish Chicken Kebab) is a delightful dish that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, these chicken kebabs will bring the vibrant taste of Turkey to your table. Serve them with your favorite side and enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress!
Print
Tavuk Sis Turkish Chicken Kebab
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This traditional Turkish Tavuk Sis (chicken kebab) is marinated in a flavorful spicy pepper sauce and grilled to perfection. A quick and delicious main course, perfect for a barbecue.
Ingredients
1/2 cup roasted red pepper, drained and patted dry
6 garlic cloves, smashed
2 jalapeno peppers, stemmed, seeded, and chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp dried mint
1 tbsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp tomato paste
Kosher salt, to taste
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch strips
3 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
In a food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, garlic, jalapeno peppers, olive oil, dried mint, paprika, cayenne pepper, honey, tomato paste, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Process until smooth.
Measure 3 tablespoons of the puree into a small bowl and stir in the lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate this sauce.
Transfer the remaining puree to a medium-sized bowl, add the chicken strips, and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate.
Prepare the barbecue by setting the grill to high and letting it warm for 7-10 minutes. Clean the grate and remove the reserved sauce from the fridge.
While the grill heats, thread the marinated chicken onto 8 wooden skewers.
Turn all barbecue burners to medium-high heat and place the skewers on the grill. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the chicken is evenly charred, about 10 to 12 minutes total.
Transfer the cooked kebabs to a serving platter. Stir fresh mint into the reserved sauce and serve alongside the hot kebabs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
