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Add some sizzle to your grilling game with our keto-friendly Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs recipe. Marinated in a zesty harissa paste and paired with a refreshing yogurt sauce, these kabobs are a flavor-packed sensation that's perfect for any summer cookout. Make these a delicious gluten-free meal by pairing them with our keto flatbreads.
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🏖️ Labor Day Beach Memories: Grilling Adventures and Kabob Capers with Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs! 🍢
Ah, Labor Day—a time for beach barbecues and cherished memories with my kids in sunny San Diego. Those days were filled with laughter, sandcastle building, and of course, delicious food. But let me tell you, the struggle for a prime beach spot and access to public BBQs was real!
Eventually, I wised up and invested in a portable grill, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer for our family gatherings. No more fighting for space or lugging heavy coolers across the sand. With our trusty grill in tow, we embarked on grilling adventures beyond basic burgers and hot dogs, embracing the wonderful world of kabobs.
There's something magical about kabobs—they're fun to make and even more fun to eat. The kids loved getting involved, and we had some hilarious moments with creative culinary requests (yes, my daughter once asked for hot dogs and mac and cheese on a stick!).
Fast forward to today, and our Labor Day celebrations look a bit different. With the grandbaby in tow, we're opting for a more relaxed affair at home. But that doesn't mean we're skimping on the menu!
From Zummus (Zucchini Hummus) and Deviled Egg Cauliflower Salad to a refreshing Mixed Berry Salad, our spread promises to be a feast for the senses. And of course, the Labor Day cookout would not be complete without those mouthwatering Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs, a nod to our cherished beach memories.
So here's to creating new traditions and savoring the flavors of Labor Day, whether at the beach or in the comfort of home! 🍔🌞
🍽️✨ Don't forget to share your delightful creations with us on Instagram using #BobbisKozyKitchen for a chance to be featured in our newsletter! 📸
In This Post
🥘Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs Ingredients
These are the ingredients necessary to make Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs.
- Skewers - I have these metal skewers but you can use these bamboo ones as well.
- Harissa - I have tried many different brands and this is my favorite.
- Pita Bread - You can use a store-bought pita or make these keto flatbreads if you want to be gluten-free.
A detailed list with measurements and instructions can be found on the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.
Helpful Hint: 💡: For maximum flavor infusion, marinate the chicken in the harissa paste for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is bursting with bold, smoky goodness.
SUBSTITUTIONS
- Chicken Thighs - You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer white meat. However, be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily than thighs.
- Greek Yogurt - If you're lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt alternatives, such as coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. Just make sure to choose a plain, unsweetened variety to maintain the savory flavor profile of the sauce.
- Pita - If you do not want to buy the pita, or make the flatbreads, you can use lettuce to make a lettuce cup or wrap.
🍽Equipment
This is the equipment you will need to make Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover chicken kabobs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to consume the leftovers within this time frame to ensure optimal freshness and safety.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the chicken kabobs for longer-term storage, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flash-freeze them for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer the kabobs to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When you're ready to enjoy the frozen chicken kabobs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can thaw them more quickly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for a few hours, changing the water every 30 minutes to ensure even thawing.
- Reheating: To reheat the refrigerated or thawed chicken kabobs, you can either grill them again over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through, or microwave them in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overcook the kabobs, as they may become dry.
By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy delicious leftover chicken kabobs without compromising on flavor or texture!
💭Top tip
To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill, lightly oil the grates before cooking. This ensures your kabobs achieve that perfect char without any frustrating sticking, so you can enjoy every bite hassle-free!
FAQ about Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs
Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. However, chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, especially when grilled. If using chicken breast, be mindful of cooking time to prevent the meat from drying out.
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. Harissa seasoning has a moderate level of heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount used to suit your taste. If you prefer milder heat, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño in the yogurt sauce or omit it altogether.
Yes, if you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can cook the kabobs indoors using a grill pan or an electric countertop grill. Simply preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the kabobs as instructed until they are cooked through.
Related Recipes
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
- Spiced Yogurt Chicken Kabobs
- Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Greek Salad
- Keto Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce
- Deluxe Cheeseburger Kabobs
- Keto Beef Kabobs
- Low Carb Chicken Fajita Skewers
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs:
- Garlic Herb Cauliflower Rice
- Lemon Garlic Zucchini Noodles
- Butternut Squash Noodles
- Grilled Zucchini Hummus "Zummus"
- Keto Flatbread (Gluten-Free)
- Tzatziki Sauce
Harissa Spiced Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients
- 8 metal skewers or wooden
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into strips
- 3 tbsp + 2 tsp harissa seasoning
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced and divided
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 green onions chopped
- 1 small jalapeño fine chopped
- pink salt
- fresh cracked black pepper
Optional
- keto pita rounds
- keto flatbreads
- baby arugula
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of the harissa seasoning with the olive oil and 1 clove minced garlic, until a paste is formed. Set aside.
- Weave the chicken strips on to the wooden skewers and rub the chicken with the harissa paste. Place the skewers on a plate and cover with plastic wrap. Let stand for 30 minutes.
- Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, green onions, garlic, jalapeño and the remaining 2 teaspoons of harissa seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the kabobs for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove to a plate.
- If using, toss the pita rounds or flatbread on the grill to warm, about 15 seconds aside.
- Serve the kabobs with the toasted pita or flatbread, yogurt sauce, and arugula.
Notes
Disclaimer
Most of my recipes are low-carb (or keto) and gluten-free, but some are not. Please verify that a recipe fits your needs before using it. Recommended and linked products are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. Recipes may contain errors, so please use your common sense when following them. Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site. Erythritol carbs will not be included as it has a glycemic index of 0 (meaning it does not spike blood sugar) and it’s not metabolized. Net carbs are the total carbs minus fiber.
Nutrition
Food Safely
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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Unknown
I'm sitting here wondering why I haven't tried harissa before. This is a must for me to do and soon.
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
It is sooooo good Renee! I can't wait to use it in a bunch of recipes!! If you like spicy (and not blow your head of spicy, just good heat) you will love harissa.
The Weekend Gourmet
These pitas look so good -- I make schawarma, which is similar. Love spices, but have never tried harissa...must change that!
Peanut Butter and Peppers
What a fun spin to chicken kabobs! They look amazing!
Unknown
Love the color on these kabobs! What a great dish to grill at the beach!
Dorothy at Shockingly Delicious
Both of those wines complement spicy foods so well. Great pairing!
Liz That Skinny Chick Can Bake
What yummy kabobs! In fact, your whole menu sounds divine!!
Life Tastes Good
Food on a stick is just so much more fun and these kabobs sound so flavorful!
Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
Oh my yummy, yum, yum! These look so good!
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Yes! I found it at the spice store in Pike's Place Market. I love grabbing spices I have never used before and then figuring out what to do with them 🙂
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
The Harissa does give them a pretty color doesn't it?
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Thanks Dorothy!
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
I totally agree Marion!
Unknown
This recipe looks so tasty! (And those pitas don't look half bad either!)
Unknown
I have never heard of Harissa spice but I am going to try this recipe out. I looks amazing
Shaylyn Rae
Oh my gosh. These look so delicious! AND HEALTHY!! I need to try these ASAP
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Thanks Whitney!
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Harissa is soooo good!! I have used the paste and also used the dry spice to make my own paste.
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
I do hope you give this recipe a try. It is so tasty!
Darlene
How much olive oil do you put in the yogurt since you use the olive oil mentioned in the rub?
Bobbi | Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
I am sorry, that was a typo. I fixed it now.