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Chicken Kebab Plate

Serves 4 to 6 Entree chicken, Poultry, shawarma, kebab

Chicken Kebab Plate

In the bustling cities and rural towns of the Levant, the Chicken Kebab Plate finds its place on tables set for shared meals. It's a dish that embodies the everyday joy of gathering around a grill table, where salt is judged by hand and fat is embraced as a friend, not a foe. This home version captures the essence of that tradition, translating it into a recipe that any family cook can recreate.

Expect the chicken to be tender and deeply infused with the earthy warmth of shawarma spice, complemented by the fruity richness of olive oil. The flatbread serves as more than just an accompaniment, soaking up the drippings and offering a soft, chewy contrast to the charred edges of the meat. A slice of fresh tomato adds a bright, juicy note, balancing the savory depth of the kebabs.

Ingredients

  • 800 gchicken thighs
  • 2 tbspshawarma spice
  • 3 tbspolive oil
  • flatbread — to serve
  • 1tomato
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Begin by patting the 800 g of chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a good sear. Season the chicken generously with fine sea salt and 2 tbsp of shawarma spice, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Heat 3 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook until the chicken is browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the exterior is golden and slightly crisp.
  2. While the chicken is browning, dice 1 tomato. Once the chicken is browned, add the diced tomato to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, allowing the tomato to release its juices and soften. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomato is tender and the chicken is cooked through. The chicken should feel firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
  3. If there is excess liquid in the skillet, increase the heat slightly to help reduce the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and allow the liquid to thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed. The sauce should cling lightly to the chicken, enhancing its flavor without being too runny.
  4. Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat. Tear or chop some fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, and sprinkle them over the chicken for a burst of freshness. Serve the chicken kebab with warm flatbread, allowing diners to scoop up the chicken and sauce with the bread. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, shared at the table with family or friends.
Cover of Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Middle Eastern volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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