Chicken Adana
Chicken Adana is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings the essence of Turkish cuisine to your kitchen. Named after the city of Adana in Turkey, this dish is typically made with skewered ground meat, grilled to perfection. While traditional Adana kebabs often use lamb or beef, this version substitutes ground chicken, making it lighter yet equally delicious. With a mix of spices and fresh herbs, Chicken Adana is sure to become a favorite for your family and friends.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Chicken Adana recipe is reliable because it balances flavors while ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and tender. The combination of spices, fresh herbs, and the right cooking technique creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also easy to replicate at home. The steps are straightforward, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both exotic and comforting.
Shopping List
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac (see note 1)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (see note 2)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Red bell pepper, roughly chopped (for serving)
Cook’s Kit
- Mixing bowl – for combining the chicken and spices.
- Skewers – wooden or metal, for grilling the chicken.
- Grill or grill pan – for cooking the skewers to perfection.
- Measuring spoons – to ensure accurate measurements of spices.
- Chopping board and knife – for preparing the ingredients.
Build Chicken Adana Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Spices
Begin by gathering all the spices and herbs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, paprika, salt, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground sumac, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano.
Step 2: Add Fresh Ingredients
Next, add the roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley and tomato paste to the chicken mixture. Drizzle in the olive oil to help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Step 3: Mix Thoroughly
Using your hands, mix the ingredients until they are well combined. This step is essential for ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chicken.
Step 4: Form the Skewers
Take a handful of the chicken mixture and mold it around the skewers, pressing firmly to ensure the chicken adheres well. Aim for a length of about 6 inches and a thickness of about 1 inch.
Step 5: Refrigerate
Place the skewers on a tray and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to grill.
Step 6: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before placing the skewers on it.
Step 7: Grill the Skewers
Once the grill is ready, place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the Chicken Adana with roughly chopped red bell pepper and your choice of sides, such as rice or a fresh salad.
Smart Substitutions
- Ground Chicken – You can use ground turkey for a similar texture and flavor.
- Flat-leaf Parsley – Fresh cilantro can be swapped in for a different flavor profile.
- Tomato Paste – If you don’t have tomato paste, use finely chopped fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce, but reduce the amount of olive oil slightly.
- Spices – Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. For a milder version, reduce the red pepper flakes.
Behind the Recipe
Chicken Adana originated in Turkey, specifically from the city of Adana, where it is traditionally made with lamb. The use of ground chicken in this recipe makes it a healthier option while still maintaining the essence of the dish. The use of various spices such as cumin, coriander, and sumac gives it a unique flavor that is both aromatic and savory. The fresh parsley adds a bright note, making this dish well-balanced and delightful.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you’re planning for a gathering or just want to save time during the week, you can prepare the Chicken Adana mixture in advance. After mixing the ingredients, form the skewers and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your grill and cook the skewers as instructed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to develop even more.
Helpful Q&A
Can I bake the Chicken Adana instead of grilling?
Yes! You can bake the skewers in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
What can I serve with Chicken Adana?
Chicken Adana pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as rice pilaf, a fresh salad, or pita bread. You can also serve it with yogurt sauce or tzatziki for added creaminess.
How do I know when Chicken Adana is cooked?
The chicken skewers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer can be a handy tool for this.
Can I freeze leftover Chicken Adana?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked Chicken Adana skewers in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat on the grill or in the oven.
More from the Kitchen
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients and steps laid out, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring the flavors of Turkey right to your dinner table. Chicken Adana is not just a meal; it’s an experience that allows you to be creative in the kitchen while enjoying a taste of a different culture. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Chicken Adana
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Spices - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, paprika, salt, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground sumac, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano.
- Step 2: Add Fresh Ingredients - Add the roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley and tomato paste to the chicken mixture. Drizzle in the olive oil to help bind the ingredients together.
- Step 3: Mix Thoroughly - Using your hands, mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
- Step 4: Form the Skewers - Mold the chicken mixture around the skewers, pressing firmly to ensure adherence.
- Step 5: Refrigerate - Place the skewers on a tray and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 6: Preheat the Grill - Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Step 7: Grill the Skewers - Cook the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Step 8: Serve - Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest. Serve with chopped red bell pepper and your choice of sides.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey as a substitute for ground chicken.
- Fresh cilantro can replace flat-leaf parsley for a different flavor.
- Prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling.
