Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

Let’s make a delicious, tender and juicy chicken doner kebab at home. It is easier than you might think. The spiced yogurt marinade is the key to make this Turkish street food recipe. Marinate the chicken, bake it on skewers, carve it and enjoy in wraps, sandwiches or on a plate with rice and salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: The marinade requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and yogurt creates a rich, savory taste that elevates your meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy chicken doner kebabs in wraps, sandwiches, or plated with sides for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken thighs and fresh vegetables, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time so you can enjoy this delightful dish anytime.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the chicken doner kebab, having the right tools will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Large bowl
• Oven-safe pan lined with foil
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: Essential for holding the marinated chicken pieces together while baking.
• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing the marinade evenly with the chicken.
• Oven-safe pan lined with foil: Makes cleanup easy while allowing even cooking of the kebabs.
• Sharp knife: Necessary for slicing the cooked chicken doner kebab thinly for serving.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken thighs (skinless and boneless, cut in half)
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or vinegar)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1½ teaspoons salt
– 4 Flatbreads (for wraps (or doner bread pita for sandwiches))
– 4 leaves lettuce (finely chopped)
– 3 tablespoons red cabbage (finely sliced)
– 1 onion (sliced)
– 1 tomatoes (sliced)
– 1 cucumber (chopped)
– ½ cup rice
– ½ cup potato Chips
– ½ cup salad (red cabbage, onions, tomatoes, cucumber)
– 2 pickles (sliced or chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

Step 1: Marinade The Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix together yogurt, oil, lemon juice, tomato paste, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss well. Ensure each piece is well coated.
3. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 3 hours. For best flavor, marinate overnight.

Step 2: Skewer The Chicken and Bake

1. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes before use. Preheat your oven to 400°F / 200°C.
2. Line a large pan with foil to catch drippings.
3. Remove the chicken from the fridge. Take two skewers and thread the pieces onto them—place one side on one skewer and push against each other until secured.
4. Repeat this process with another two skewers for any remaining chicken pieces.
5. Position the skewers on top rim of your prepared pan so that chicken hangs without touching it.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
7. Flip kebabs carefully; spoon some juices over them from the pan and bake for another 25 minutes.
8. Remove from oven; baste again with juices and let rest for about five minutes before serving.

Step 3: Carve The Chicken Doner Kebabs

1. Place kebabs upright on a cutting board; slice thinly using a sharp knife as desired.

Step 4: Serve In Wraps or Sandwiches

1. For wraps: Lay salad ingredients on flatbread; top with sliced chicken doner kebab pieces; roll it up tightly.
2. For sandwiches: Fill doner bread or pita with salad and sliced chicken doner; enjoy!
3. To serve plated: Assemble your meal by placing chicken doner alongside rice, potato chips (optional), salad mix including lettuce, red cabbage, tomatoes, cucumber and pickles all arranged neatly on a plate.

With these steps complete, you’ll have homemade Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner) that’s perfect for dinner or any gathering!

How to Serve Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

Serving Chicken Doner Kebab is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy this flavorful dish in various ways. Whether you prefer wraps, sandwiches, or plates, each method enhances the taste and presentation of this Turkish delicacy.

Wraps

• Flatbread Delight: Roll your chicken doner kebab pieces with fresh salad in a warm flatbread for a satisfying meal.
• Saucy Addition: Drizzle your favorite sauce, like garlic yogurt or spicy chili sauce, over the salad before wrapping for extra flavor.

Sandwiches

• Pita Perfection: Fill a fluffy pita with sliced chicken doner and crunchy veggies for a quick lunch option.
• Layered Goodness: Add layers of salad and pickles inside the sandwich to balance the savory chicken with fresh crunch.

Plated Meals

• Traditional Doner Plate: Serve the chicken doner on a plate with rice, potato chips, and a colorful salad for a complete meal.
• Garnished Presentation: Top your plate with slices of lemon or fresh herbs to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

How to Perfect Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

Perfecting your Chicken Doner Kebab requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• bold Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight instead of just three hours.
• bold Skewer Smartly: Ensure each skewer is packed tightly with chicken pieces for even cooking and juiciness.
• bold Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your kebabs while baking to prevent overcooking; they should be golden brown but still tender.
• bold Baste Frequently: Basting the kebabs with juices during cooking keeps them moist and flavorful.
• bold Slice Thinly: When carving the chicken doner, slice thinly for more tender bites and better distribution in wraps or sandwiches.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Doner Kebab can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. bold Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf flavored with spices adds a comforting base to the meal.
2. bold Potato Chips: Crispy potato chips provide a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the tender meat.
3. bold Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur adds brightness and freshness.
4. bold Hummus: Creamy hummus serves as a perfect dip for bread or veggies alongside your kebab.
5. bold Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables add smoky flavors that complement the spices in the chicken doner.
6. bold Yogurt Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce helps temper the spices of the doner kebab while adding creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade time: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 3 hours, or even better, overnight for maximum taste.
• Using low-quality chicken: Selecting poor-quality chicken can result in tough kebabs. Always opt for fresh, skinless, and boneless chicken thighs for the best results.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many pieces on one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure chicken pieces are spaced out comfortably on the skewers.
• Neglecting to baste: Failing to baste the chicken during baking can cause it to dry out. Make sure to baste with pan juices halfway through cooking for juicy kebabs.
• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step may prevent your kebabs from browning properly. Always preheat your oven before placing your skewers inside.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the kebabs immediately after baking can cause juices to run out. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Doner Kebab in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebab pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the kebab slices for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use beef or lamb as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since different meats have varying cooking requirements.

How do I serve Chicken Doner Kebab?

You can enjoy Chicken Doner Kebab in wraps, sandwiches, or plated with rice and salad. It’s versatile and pairs well with various sides!

What sides go well with Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner)?

Popular sides include rice, fries, salads, or pickles. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!

Can I make Chicken Doner Kebab ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Doner Kebab (Tavuk Döner) is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it wrapped up in flatbread or served on a plate with fresh sides, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize your kebabs with different veggies or sauces—make it your own!