Print

Healthy Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Skewers

healthy anti-inflammatory turmeric chicken skewers - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring chicken marinated in a vibrant turmeric-based marinade, perfect for weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings. These skewers deliver bold flavor, anti-inflammatory benefits, and juicy tenderness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons fresh turmeric root, peeled and grated (or 1 tablespoon ground turmeric as a substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ teaspoon salt and a few cracks of pepper)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for gentle heat
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes before use)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining grated fresh turmeric, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk until well blended (about 3 minutes).
  2. Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and cut into roughly 1-inch cubes, keeping pieces uniform (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning (skip if using metal skewers). Preheat grill or grill pan.
  5. Thread marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking (about 5 minutes).
  6. Grill skewers over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once or twice, until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan or grill.
  7. Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning the marinade. Marinate for at least 20 minutes for best flavor, but up to 2 hours or overnight is ideal. Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking and nice grill marks. Let skewers rest after cooking to keep chicken juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: turmeric chicken skewers, anti-inflammatory chicken, healthy chicken recipe, quick dinner, turmeric marinade, grilled chicken skewers, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, dairy-free