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If you are looking for a flavorful, healthy, and speedy way to enjoy grilled goodness, this Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender, and bursting with fresh herbs and spices, these kabobs capture the essence of summer grilling with a lean protein twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a delightful dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of moisture, aroma, and spice that makes these kabobs truly special.
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil: A neutral oil like Wesson helps keep the turkey moist without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean and tender, it forms the base of the kabobs, providing a healthy protein punch.
- 1 small onion (finely diced): These tiny pieces add moisture and help bind the kabob mixture for easy shaping.
- 1/4 cup cilantro: Fresh and bright, cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 egg (lightly beaten): Acts as a natural binder, ensuring your kabobs hold together firmly on the grill.
- 3 garlic cloves (freshly minced): Garlic infuses the kabobs with deep, savory notes that complement the turkey perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp green chile pepper: Adds a subtle heat without overwhelming the flavor profile.
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander: Provides a warm, citrusy touch—McCormick’s consistency is my go-to for spice quality.
- 1/4 tsp paprika: Brings a smoky depth and a beautiful color to the kabobs.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Gives a mild kick and complexity, rounding out the seasoning.
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin: Earthy notes that complement the other spices and enhance the savory flavor.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper: Just enough to add subtle warmth and spice.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing the natural taste of the turkey.
How to Make Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kabob Mixture
Begin by combining the ground turkey, finely diced onion, and freshly minced garlic in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped cilantro, beaten egg, and all the spices—green chile pepper, coriander, paprika, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Drizzle in the vegetable oil to help retain moisture as you mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until well combined. This mixture should be sticky enough to hold together but not overly wet.
Step 2: Shape the Kabobs
Take handfuls of the mixture and carefully mold them around skewers, pressing firmly yet gently so they hold their shape. Aim for evenly sized kabobs to ensure uniform cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a nice char on the kabobs without drying them out. If grilling indoors, a grill pan on your stovetop works beautifully for this step.
Step 4: Grill the Kabobs
Place the kabobs on the grill, turning every few minutes to cook evenly on all sides. This process typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes, until the turkey is cooked through and the outside is beautifully crisped. Keep a close eye to avoid flare-ups, and don’t forget to baste occasionally with any leftover oil mixture for extra flavor and juiciness.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once grilled perfectly, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite tender and moist. Then, they are ready to impress at your dinner table!
How to Serve Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these kabobs, garnish with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. A drizzle of tangy yogurt sauce or garlic tahini complements the spices wonderfully and adds a cooling contrast that balances the heat.
Side Dishes
These kabobs pair perfectly with fluffy couscous, a fresh cucumber salad, or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also serve them over warm pita bread for an easy wrap option that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the kabobs deconstructed on a platter with bold sauces, chopped veggies, and warm flatbreads for a DIY Mediterranean-inspired meal. Alternatively, slice them up and toss into a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and a squeeze of lemon for a hearty lunch or light dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they have cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs Recipe later, freeze the shaped but uncooked kabobs on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Grill directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, use a warm oven or grill to bring the kabobs back to life without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you can as it tends to toughen the turkey; reheating gently keeps them juicy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground chicken for the ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will yield similarly tender kabobs. Just be mindful that chicken can be slightly leaner, so adding a bit more oil might help keep them juicy.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning and breaking on the grill. This step safeguards your kabobs and makes handling easier.
Can I prepare the kabob mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ground turkey and spices up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This actually enhances the flavor as the spices have more time to meld together.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! Use a grill pan or broiler to cook your kabobs indoors. Just adjust the cook time accordingly and turn frequently for even browning.
How do I know when the kabobs are fully cooked?
Turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check, or cut into one kabob to ensure there is no pink inside and the juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
This Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors and healthy eating to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining friends, or just craving something deliciously simple, it’s a recipe that delivers every time. Grab your skewers and give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever grilled without it!
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Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 kabobs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Quick Grilled Ground Turkey Kabobs are a flavorful and healthy meal option, combining ground turkey with fresh herbs and spices that are perfectly grilled to juicy perfection. Ready in under 45 minutes, these kabobs are ideal for a speedy dinner or a delightful addition to your summer cookout.
Ingredients
Meat and Binder
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 small onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
Spices
- 1/4 tsp green chile pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- salt, to taste
Oil
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (preferably Wesson for neutral flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely diced onion, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients which helps with binding the kabobs.
- Season the Meat: Add the green chile pepper, ground coriander, paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt to the turkey mixture. Drizzle in the vegetable oil and mix thoroughly until all spices and oil are fully incorporated into the meat.
- Form the Kabobs: Divide the mixture evenly into 4 portions, then shape each portion into long, uniform kabobs around skewers (if using), pressing firmly to ensure they hold together and cook evenly.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 12-13 minutes per side, turning carefully to avoid breaking, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the kabobs are browned and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite sides or sauces.
Notes
- Using finely diced onion improves binding and texture of the kabobs.
- Fresh cilantro and garlic enhance the flavor significantly, so avoid using dried substitutes if possible.
- Ground turkey is lean, so adding a bit of oil helps keep the kabobs moist while grilling.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the kabobs are cooked safely to 165°F.
- These kabobs can also be cooked on a stovetop grill pan if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
