These Spiced Chicken Skewers are perfect for summer grilling. Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, the blend of turmeric, cumin and sumac infuses the chicken with warm, vibrant notes that evoke sunny gatherings. The skewers are simple to prepare, delicious, and can be marinated a few hours ahead so you spend more time with friends and family. They’re also Whole30 and Paleo friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Before the recipe, a few quick notes about skewers and technique.
I recommend using metal skewers because they’re reusable and sturdy. Look for wide, flat skewers rather than round, narrow ones — the flat edge helps hold the meat in place while grilling. If you prefer a budget-friendly option for large parties, disposable bamboo skewers work fine; just soak them in water for an hour before grilling to prevent burning.
Over the years I’ve learned that the secret to excellent skewers is a good marinade. While there are many directions you can take, I strongly encourage marinating the chicken for a few hours before grilling. Skipping the marinating step is possible, but planning ahead pays off with more tender, flavorful meat.
Common marinade approaches include:
- Oil and acid: A classic combination of oil (for flavor and to prevent sticking) and acid such as lemon juice or vinegar (to help tenderize). This style works well in many Mediterranean preparations.
- Yogurt-based marinades: Widely used in Middle Eastern cuisine, yogurt adds flavor and tenderness. For a Paleo or Whole30 option, plain dairy yogurt isn’t suitable, but coconut yogurt can be a good substitute—especially for Southeast Asian-inspired marinades. Note that coconut yogurt can be pricey; a homemade version can be made by stirring probiotics into coconut milk.
- Mayonnaise: Less conventional but highly effective, mayonnaise keeps meat juicy and helps achieve a beautiful caramelized exterior. For Paleo and Whole30, use an avocado-oil–based compliant mayo or make your own homemade version.
For dipping, serve these skewers with your favorite hot sauce, tahini, or a garlicky aioli for extra richness.
These skewers are family-friendly and great for entertaining. Below is the recipe with ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
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Whole30 Spiced Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- ½ cup Whole30-compliant mayo
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp sumac
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp cayenne (optional)
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
For the Skewers
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken, breast or thigh, cut into 1″ pieces
- 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, cut into quarters
Instructions
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Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl and mix until smooth. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 3–6 hours.
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When ready to cook, thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with red onion quarters and whole cherry tomatoes. If using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for 1 hour beforehand.
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Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. Cook the kebabs over direct heat for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Remove from the grill and tent with foil for 5 minutes to rest before serving.