Mediterranean Chicken Skewers Hummus Spread (Print Version)
Tender grilled chicken skewers with aromatic spices, served over creamy homemade hummus spread for a perfect Mediterranean meal.
# What You Need:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 1.3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.2-inch cubes
02 - 3 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 tbsp lemon juice
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 tsp ground cumin
06 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - 0.5 tsp salt
09 - 0.25 tsp black pepper
→ Hummus Spread
10 - 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
11 - 3 tbsp tahini
12 - 2 tbsp lemon juice
13 - 2 tbsp olive oil
14 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
15 - 0.5 tsp ground cumin
16 - 0.5 tsp salt
17 - 2-4 tbsp water (as needed)
→ Serving & Garnish
18 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
19 - Lemon wedges
20 - Pita bread (optional)
21 - Cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices (optional)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add chicken cubes and toss thoroughly to coat. Marinate for minimum 20 minutes, maximum 2 hours refrigerated.
02 - Process chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt in a food processor until completely smooth. Gradually incorporate water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired creamy consistency is achieved. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature, approximately 400°F. Thread marinated chicken pieces evenly onto skewers, leaving slight space between pieces for even cooking.
04 - Place skewers on preheated grill surface. Cook for 12-15 minutes total, rotating every 3-4 minutes to ensure even searing on all sides. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F and surface shows light charring.
05 - Spread prepared hummus generously across serving platter. Arrange grilled chicken skewers atop hummus bed. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and accompany with lemon wedges, pita bread, and fresh vegetable accompaniments if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The hummus spread keeps everything incredibly moist while adding that creamy element that makes the dish feel complete
- Marinade does double duty as a flavor booster and tenderizer, making even simple chicken breast feel special
02 -
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill, a lesson I learned the hard way
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling helps redistribute the juices for more tender meat
03 -
- Pat the chicken dry before adding it to the marinade so the flavors cling better to the meat
- Taste your hummus and adjust the salt before serving, as tahini brands vary in saltiness