Garlic chicken skewers

Garlic Chicken Skewers feature marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, enhanced by a vibrant carrot and orange sauce. Served with a pistachio-infused couscous, this dish is bursting with flavour and colour.

14 Nov 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

6 chicken thighs
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 orange
1 red onion
2 carrots
2 tsp ground cumin
1 cup chicken gravy
2 tbsp honey
1 cup couscous
1/2 cup pistachio nuts
1/2 cup coriander leaves

Welcome to a flavorful journey with our Garlic Chicken Skewers! This delectable dish brings together an array of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful family dinner, these skewers will surely impress with their robust flavors and vibrant colors. Let's dive into the recipe and discover how to bring this culinary delight to life.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

2. Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red onion.

3. Prepare the Carrot and Orange Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, add the diced carrot, orange zest, orange juice, and ground cumin.
- Pour in the chicken gravy and honey, then stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the carrots are tender.

4. Cook the Couscous:
- Prepare the couscous according to the package instructions.
- Once cooked, fluff the couscous with a fork and mix in the chopped pistachio nuts and half of the chopped coriander leaves. Reserve the remaining coriander for garnish.

5. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
- Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

6. Assemble the Dish:
- Serve the chicken skewers hot, drizzled with the carrot and orange sauce.
- Plate the couscous alongside the skewers.
- Garnish with the remaining chopped coriander leaves.

And there you have it - Garlic Chicken Skewers that are bursting with flavor and are sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is a fantastic combination of savory, sweet, and citrusy elements, balanced perfectly with a touch of spice from the paprika and cumin. Pair it with fluffy couscous and garnish with fresh coriander and crunchy pistachios for a complete, satisfying meal. Enjoy your culinary creation and savor each delicious bite!

Garlic chicken skewers FAQ:

What is the best cooking time for the chicken skewers?

Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes over medium-high heat, turning occasionally. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I substitute chicken thighs with another meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may cook slightly faster.

How should I store leftovers of the garlic chicken skewers?

Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through.

What can I use instead of couscous?

If you want an alternative to couscous, try quinoa, bulgur, or rice. Adjust the cooking method according to the substitute you choose.

How can I tell when the skewers are done cooking?

The skewers are done when the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. You can also use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Tips:

- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the garlic, paprika, lemon juice, and olive oil mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

- To add a smoky flavor, consider grilling the skewers over an open flame or on a BBQ grill.

- Feel free to substitute the couscous with quinoa or rice if you prefer.

- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 600kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 13g
Fat 40g

Garlic chicken skewers