It was a warm summer evening when I first experimented with this recipe. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the garden, and the aroma of grilling meat mixed with the scent of blooming mint filled the air. As I prepared for a small gathering of friends, I wanted to create something vibrant and flavorful that would capture the essence of summer. That’s when I decided to combine tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices with the sweet and tangy burst of pomegranate. These kebabs, paired with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce, became an instant hit. Now, every summer, they remind me of laughter, warmth, and the joy of sharing good food with great company.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup pomegranate juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For the Mint Yogurt Sauce
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt to taste
Instructions
Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the pomegranate juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the mint yogurt sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, chopped mint leaves, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Once the chicken has marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char on the outside.
Just before serving, sprinkle the kebabs with fresh pomegranate seeds and garnish with mint leaves. Arrange the kebabs on a platter alongside the mint yogurt sauce for dipping. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will surely wow your guests and create an unforgettable dining experience.
These Spiced Pomegranate Chicken Kebabs are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors that bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, they will transport you to a sunlit terrace, where laughter and good food reign supreme.