Noo’s Famous Spiced Green Chicken Skewers

The scent of coriander and cumin always takes me back to summer evenings in my garden, a tiny patch of green in the middle of the city. We’d fire up the barbecue, the charcoal hissing and spitting, and these spiced green chicken skewers would inevitably make an appearance. Even now, years later, the vibrant aroma instantly conjures up laughter, good company, and that perfectly charred, smoky flavour that only comes from cooking over an open flame. It’s a dish that embodies summer for me.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Servings: 4
• Yield: Varies depending on chicken size
• Dietary Type: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 2 skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons sunflower oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 tablespoon caster sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 chili pepper, no seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Barbecue or grill pan

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts lengthwise into strips, about 1-inch wide. This will allow for even cooking and maximum flavour absorption.

2. Next, make the marinade. In a food processor, combine the sunflower oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh coriander, caster sugar, ground cumin, ground coriander, light soy sauce, and chili pepper (with seeds removed). Process until smooth. This vibrant green mixture is the key to the skewers’ distinctive flavour.

3. In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken strips thoroughly with the prepared marinade. Ensure every piece is well covered to maximize the flavour infusion.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or preferably overnight. This marinating time allows the flavours to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful skewer.

5. When you are ready to cook, thread the chicken strips, concertina style, onto the skewers. This method not only looks visually appealing but also helps the chicken cook evenly. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to threading to prevent them from burning on the grill.

6. Preheat your barbecue or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers over hot coals, turning occasionally and basting with any remaining marinade, for approximately 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcrowd the grill; cook in batches if necessary. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skimp on the fresh coriander: While ground coriander adds depth, the fresh coriander provides the bright, herbaceous note that makes these skewers truly special. Using all ground coriander will not yield the same result.
• Marinating Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavourful it will be. If you’re short on time, a minimum of two hours is recommended, but marinating overnight is ideal.
• Preventing Dryness: Basting the skewers with the remaining marinade during grilling helps to keep the chicken moist and adds an extra layer of flavour.
• Chili Heat: Adjust the amount of chili pepper to your preference. For a milder flavour, remove the membranes as well as the seeds. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.
• Even Cooking: Ensure your grill is evenly heated to prevent some skewers from cooking faster than others.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Spiced Green Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile. Serve them hot off the grill as part of a barbecue feast, or enjoy them cold, tucked into pita bread with a fresh salad. They’re also excellent as a party appetizer.

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken. They can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	278 kcal	14%
Total Fat	17g	22%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	76mg	25%
Sodium	390mg	17%
Total Carbohydrate	5g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	4g	8%
Protein	26g	52%

Variations & Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavour, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari as a substitute.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs, such as mint or parsley, in addition to coriander.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried coriander instead of fresh?
A: While you can use ground coriander for depth, fresh coriander is essential for the bright, herbaceous flavour that defines these skewers. The taste won’t be the same without it.

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: Marinating for at least two hours is recommended, but overnight is ideal. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavourful it will be.

Q: Can I grill these indoors?
A: Yes, you can grill these skewers indoors using a grill pan. However, the smoky flavour from a barbecue is definitely worth the effort if you have the option.

Q: How do I prevent the skewers from sticking to the grill?
A: Ensure your grill is clean and well-oiled before placing the skewers on it. Also, avoid moving the skewers too frequently during grilling.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and assemble the skewers a few hours before grilling. Just be sure to keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

I sincerely hope you’ll give Noo’s Famous Spiced Green Chicken Skewers a try. This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to create a memorable culinary experience, filled with vibrant flavours and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Feel free to experiment with the variations and make it your own. And please, don’t hesitate to share your feedback – I’d love to hear how they turned out! These skewers pair wonderfully with a crisp, dry white wine and a side of grilled vegetables.