Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying. Infused with aromatic spices and a touch of citrus, these kebabs are juicy, tender, and ideal for a quick meal or a summer barbecue.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Packed with flavor: A blend of spices and fresh ingredients.
- Versatile cooking options: Grill, bake, or pan-fry for great results.
- Healthy and satisfying: Lean protein with vibrant seasonings.
- Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices or add veggies to suit your taste.
What Is Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab?
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab is a marinated chicken dish skewered and cooked to perfection, offering a delicious combination of spices, citrus, and herbs. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be served as a main course or appetizer.
Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 500g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins for Skewers:
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
- Cherry tomatoes
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Tzatziki sauce or hummus
- Fresh salad

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix well.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of onion, bell pepper, or cherry tomatoes if desired.
Step 4: Cook the Kebabs
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Pan-fry: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the kebabs on a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges. Pair with pita bread, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab
- Pita bread or flatbread: Wrap the chicken and veggies for a hearty meal.
- Tzatziki sauce: Adds a refreshing and creamy touch.
- Rice or couscous: A filling side dish.
- Grilled vegetables: Complements the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh salad: A simple cucumber or tomato salad works well.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab
- Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use thighs for juicier kebabs: Chicken thighs stay moist and tender.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leave space between pieces for even cooking.
- Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor.
- Preheat properly: Ensure the grill, oven, or skillet is hot before cooking.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab
- Spicy kebabs: Add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Mediterranean twist: Use oregano and thyme instead of cumin and paprika.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with tofu or paneer.
- Herby delight: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the skewers.
- Cheesy kebabs: Sprinkle grated cheese over the skewers before baking.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab?
- Refrigerate properly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Remove the chicken from the skewers and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab?
- In the oven: Reheat at 175°C (350°F) for 10 minutes until warmed through.
- In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for kebabs?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great option as they stay juicier and more tender during cooking compared to chicken breasts.
How do I prevent chicken kebabs from drying out?
To keep the chicken juicy, marinate it thoroughly, avoid overcooking, and ensure your grill or pan is preheated to the right temperature.
Can I prepare chicken kebabs ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the skewers just before cooking for best results.
What vegetables go well with chicken kebabs?
Bell peppers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini are excellent choices to pair with chicken kebabs for added flavor and texture.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a barbecue or as a quick dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress. Try this recipe today for a healthy and delicious meal!
Print
Jamie Oliver Chicken Kebab Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including marination)
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 48 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, baking, or pan-frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Kebab is a marinated chicken dish skewered and cooked to perfection, offering a delicious combination of spices, citrus, and herbs. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be served as a main course or appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
-
- 500g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
-
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
-
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
-
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
-
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
-
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
-
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
-
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
-
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins for Skewers:
-
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
-
- 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
-
- Cherry tomatoes
Garnishes:
-
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
-
- Lemon wedges
For Serving:
-
- Pita bread or flatbread
-
- Tzatziki sauce or hummus
-
- Fresh salad
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
-
- Combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix well.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
-
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs
-
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of onion, bell pepper, or cherry tomatoes if desired.
Step 4: Cook the Kebabs
-
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
-
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
-
- Pan-fry: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve
-
- Arrange the kebabs on a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges. Pair with pita bread, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.