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Healthy Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe with Easy Cucumber Mint Tzatziki

turmeric grilled chicken skewers - featured image

A vibrant and healthful recipe featuring turmeric-marinated grilled chicken skewers paired with a cooling cucumber mint tzatziki sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons turmeric powder (freshly ground if possible)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Metal or soaked wooden skewers
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
  • 1 medium cucumber, peeled and grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together turmeric powder, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, ground cumin (if using), salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Cut chicken breasts into 1.5-inch cubes and add to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Peel and grate the cucumber, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
  5. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped mint, dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  6. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400ยฐF). Brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
  7. Thread marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
  8. Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF.
  9. Let skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. Serve warm with cucumber mint tzatziki on the side or drizzled over the top.

Notes

Use medium-high heat and monitor carefully to prevent turmeric from burning and turning bitter. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Squeeze excess water from cucumber to avoid watery tzatziki. Leave space between chicken pieces on skewers to ensure even grilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: turmeric chicken skewers, grilled chicken, anti-inflammatory recipe, cucumber mint tzatziki, healthy chicken recipe, easy weeknight dinner, gluten-free, low-carb