Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey to Turkey! Known for its rich flavors, aromas, and spices, Turkish cuisine has gained worldwide popularity. One of the most iconic and beloved dishes from this region is undoubtedly chicken. In this article, we’ll take you on a delicious ride through 20 flavorful Turkish chicken recipes that will tantalize your taste buds.
From classic kebabs to hearty stews, creamy sauces to fragrant pilafs, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the best of Turkish cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore new flavors, these easy-to-follow recipes are sure to become instant favorites in your kitchen. So sit back, relax, and let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!
Turkish Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Turkey with these succulent chicken kebabs and tangy garlic yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Threadable skewers for kebabs
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, stirring to coat. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Garlic Yogurt Sauce (see below).
Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
1. Mix together 1/2 cup yogurt, 1 clove minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Ottoman-Style Braised Chicken with Apricots
Experience the rich flavors of the Ottoman Empire with this aromatic and tender chicken dish, slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy apricot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the apricots, chicken broth, and honey to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and braise for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and falling apart.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Turkish Spiced Chicken and Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warm spices of Turkey with tender chicken and fluffy rice. This pilaf is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, and chopped parsley (if using); bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Turkish Chicken with Sumac and Lemon
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional grilled chicken, this Turkish-inspired recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warm, spicy kick of sumac. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, sumac, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Eggplant Stew
Turkish Chicken and Eggplant Stew Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tender chicken with the rich flavor of eggplant, onions, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the eggplant slices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the browned chicken back into the pot, along with the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
7. Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
Chicken Iskender with Tomato Sauce and Bread
This Turkish-inspired dish combines juicy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and crispy bread for a satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably Turkish-style bread)
– Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, toast bread slices by grilling them lightly or baking at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve chicken on top of toasted bread with a spoonful of tomato sauce. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Turkish Chicken Pide with Melted Cheese
A classic Turkish dish that combines juicy chicken, crispy pita bread, and gooey melted cheese – perfect for a satisfying snack or meal. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pita bread
– 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pita bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
6. Fold the other half of the pita bread over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pita bread is crispy.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Adana Kebab with Spicy Red Pepper Paste
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, spicy red pepper paste, and aromatic spices to create a mouthwatering kebab that’s sure to please. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp red pepper paste (such as Korean chili flakes)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, red pepper paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat.
2. Add garlic and mix again.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the kebabs with olive oil.
5. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
6. Cook kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Chickpea Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of chicken, chickpeas, and spices with the warmth of Turkish cuisine. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying meal to share.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to coat the ingredients evenly.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and top with tomato sauce.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using) and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Lemon and Oregano Marinated Turkish Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Turkey with this simple yet aromatic recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Bulgur Wheat Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious pilaf dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, bulgur wheat, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups bulgur wheat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the bulgur wheat and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the bulgur is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Turkish Chicken with Walnuts and Pomegranate
This flavorful dish is a perfect blend of Turkish spices, crunchy walnuts, and sweet pomegranate. Serve it as an impressive main course or use it as a show-stopping appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pomegranate, seeds only
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the walnut mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with pomegranate seeds before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Lentil Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of chicken, lentils, and aromatic spices. This Turkish-inspired dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the lentils, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Chicken Shish Tawook with Tahini Sauce
This Lebanese-inspired dish combines juicy grilled chicken with a creamy tahini sauce, perfect for a flavorful and aromatic meal. Marinate the chicken in a blend of Middle Eastern spices and then grill it to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini, water, and garlic in a small bowl.
6. Serve the grilled chicken with the tahini sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Potato Casserole
Turkish Chicken and Potato Casserole: A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of chicken and potatoes with the warmth of Turkish spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, potatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Beyti Kebabs with Tomato Butter Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional Turkish kebabs, these Chicken Beyti Kebabs are marinated in a mix of spices and herbs before being grilled to perfection. Serve them with a rich and tangy Tomato Butter Sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup tomato butter sauce (recipe below)
– 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Tomato Butter Sauce (recipe below).
Tomato Butter Sauce:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Spinach Börek
Experience the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine with this savory pastry filled with chicken, spinach, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, spinach, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the edges of two phyllo sheets with olive oil.
5. Place one sheet on a flat surface, add about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Fold the sides over the filling and roll into a neat cylinder.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Turkish Chicken Wings with Garlic Dip
Experience the bold flavors of Turkey in these spicy chicken wings paired with a creamy garlic dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, pomegranate molasses, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken wings and toss to coat.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
6. Serve warm chicken wings with garlic dip.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkish Chicken and Vegetable Tagine
This flavorful stew-like dish, known as a tagine, is a staple of Turkish cuisine. With the rich aroma of spices and the tender bite of chicken, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Istanbul.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large clay or ceramic tagine (or Dutch oven) over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken Doner Kebab with Homemade Flatbread
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring tender chicken doner kebab wrapped in crispy homemade flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Homemade flatbread ingredients:
+ 2 cups all-purpose flour
+ 1/4 tsp salt
+ 1/4 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, yogurt, olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the mixture onto metal skewers or wooden sticks, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the flatbread dough by mixing flour, salt, and lukewarm water to form a ball.
6. Roll out the dough to desired thickness and cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Assemble the doner kebab by placing cooked chicken onto flatbread and serving hot.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Turkey with these 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes. From classic kebabs to hearty stews and casseroles, Turkish cuisine offers a world of delicious possibilities. Recipes like Turkish Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce and Ottoman-Style Braised Chicken with Apricots showcase the country’s love for rich flavors and aromas. Meanwhile, dishes like Grilled Turkish Chicken with Sumac and Lemon highlight the use of bright, zesty ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or comforting, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
