Juicy Chicken Skewers in a Flavorful Marinade

This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy chicken cooked to perfection with a well-seasoned marinade. The unique blend of spices and the process of marinating enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and tender. By marinating the chicken throughout the day, every piece absorbs a perfect balance of sugar, salt, and spices, leading to a dish that's sure to impress. Grilling ensures a slightly smoky flavor that complements the aromatic garlic and cloves. The simplicity of the ingredients works wonders, creating an inseparable harmony of taste. The patience of letting the chicken soak up the flavors results in a satisfying dish that is moist and flavorful throughout. This dish is ideal for outdoor BBQs or family gatherings where time can be spent relaxing while the chicken soaks up the intense yet balanced flavors. A few simple yet effective tips can bring out the best in each bite, ensuring that your chicken skewers are the star of your next meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1.5 kg chicken drumsticks
0.5 l water

Spices and Sauces:

2 tbsp vinegar essence (or substitute with 8 tbsp of 9% table vinegar)
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp salt
2 bay leaves
10 five-grain peppercorns
4 allspice berries
2 cloves
1 tbsp caraway seeds
1 head of garlic (sliced fresh, added after the marinade is cooled)

Preparation Time

Total time: 12 hours (includes 10 mins prep, 10 mins cooking, and 11 hours 40 mins marinating)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Cut the chicken legs and thighs into large chunks, avoiding slicing them too thin to prevent the meat from drying out during grilling.
Pour the water into a pot and add all the spices—sugar, salt, bay leaves, five-grain peppercorns, allspice berries, cloves, and caraway seeds. Simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes.
Remove the marinade from heat and allow it to cool completely.
Once cooled, add the freshly sliced garlic and vinegar essence to the marinade. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, making sure every piece is submerged fully.
Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade at room temperature for the majority of the day. If it’s not being used soon, store it in the refrigerator. This process ensures the chicken absorbs all the flavors effectively.
Before grilling, ensure the chicken pieces are well coated in the marinade.
Preheat your grill to a medium temperature to prevent the chicken from charring.
Grill the chicken, frequently turning it to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides.
Be cautious not to overcook or burn the chicken; grill at a moderate pace to retain moisture.
Once cooked, serve the skewers immediately for the best flavor experience.

Tips

Frequent Turnings: Turn the skewers often to avoid burning and to ensure even cooking.
Substitution: If vinegar essence is unavailable, use 9% table vinegar as a substitute.
Flavor Enhancement: Patience is key—allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances the richness of the flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 25g
Total Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 2g

Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the number of peppercorns and allspice berries for a spicier or milder taste.
Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for added freshness.
Vegetable Addition: Add chunks of bell peppers or onions to the skewers for a more complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
Pair with a chilled, crisp white wine or a light, refreshing beer for a balanced meal.
Complement the dish with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini or corn for added flavor.

Best Places

Smokehouse Barbecue - Famous for its juicy chicken skewers and exceptional marinades. Location: 101 Grill Lane, Austin, USA.
Flavour & Fire - Known for its spicy twists on traditional recipes. Location: 22 Spice Blvd, Mumbai, India.
Chargrill Haven - Offers a wide selection of grilled meats with unique marinades. Location: 55 Flame Street, Melbourne, Australia.
Skewer’s Delight - Popular for its authentic skewered dishes. Location: 420 Artisan Rd, Istanbul, Turkey.
Marinade Magic - Renowned for handcrafted marinades that enhance flavors remarkably. Location: 78 Flavor Ave, Paris, France.
The Taste Closet - Known for creative and flavorful skewer experiences. Location: 15 Culinary Way, New York, USA.
Fiery Feast - A great place for a variety of spice-infused skewers. Location: 99 Griller’s Alley, Cape Town, South Africa.
Spiced & Real - Celebrated for its amazing grilled opportunities and flavors. Location: 300 Charcol Court, Tokyo, Japan.
Grill Masters - Features a blend of local spices in every dish. Location: 88 Barbecue Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
Succulent Sticks - Perfect for those who enjoy rich and spicy meat dishes. Location: 67 Marinade Lane, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.