If you’re in the mood for something light, flavorful, and perfect for a warm day, these Turmeric Chicken Skewers with Cucumber Salad are just what you need. The chicken is marinated in a fragrant turmeric and spice blend, then grilled to juicy perfection. Paired with a cool, crisp cucumber salad, this dish is a wonderful balance of bold and fresh flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or a summer BBQ, this meal is sure to impress.
Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s get started!
Turmeric Chicken Skewers with Cucumber Salad
Try these Turmeric Chicken Skewers with Cucumber Salad! Juicy, spiced chicken skewers served with a light and refreshing cucumber salad.
Ingredients
For the Turmeric Chicken Skewers
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cucumbers thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped (or parsley)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Cherry tomatoes halved, for extra color in the salad
- A sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess in the salad
Substitutions
- Vegan/Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and marinate using the same spice blend.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free but you can omit the feta if adding it to the salad.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to develop.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step, but it enhances the flavor!
Prepare the Cucumber Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
- Chill in the fridge while you grill the chicken.
Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Serve
- Serve the Turmeric Chicken Skewers hot, alongside the chilled Cucumber Salad.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill or lemon wedges if desired.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350-400
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken skewers in a hot skillet or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper or paprika.
- The cucumber salad can be made more substantial by adding diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or even chickpeas.
Variations:
- Spicy Harissa Chicken Skewers: Replace the turmeric and spices with harissa paste for a spicier, North African-inspired flavor.
- Herbed Chicken Skewers: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for a more herbal twist.
- Mediterranean Chicken Wraps: Serve the chicken skewers in pita bread with the cucumber salad, some hummus, and a drizzle of tahini for a delicious wrap.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Pair these skewers with a side of couscous, quinoa, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. They’re also great served with a yogurt or tzatziki sauce for extra creaminess.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken marinade and the cucumber salad ahead of time. Just grill the chicken fresh when ready to serve.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover chicken and salad in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or enjoy it cold in a wrap or salad.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Turmeric Chicken Skewers with Cucumber Salad that are light, refreshing, and full of bold flavors! The juicy, spiced chicken pairs perfectly with the crisp, tangy cucumber salad, making this dish a delicious and balanced meal. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or preparing a healthy lunch, these skewers are sure to satisfy. So marinate that chicken, grill it up, and enjoy a bright, flavorful meal!
