
Grilled Lemon Turmeric Chicken Skewers with Spiced Coconut Cabbage Slaw
Fire up the grill and let’s get vibrant! These Grilled Lemon Turmeric Chicken Skewers pack a tangy, golden punch, perfectly paired with a creamy, spiced coconut cabbage slaw. It’s smoky, zesty, and oh-so-tasty—a flavor-packed combo that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
4.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Global Fusion
Ingredients
- •1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- •1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- •2 tablespoons olive oil
- •1 tablespoon ground turmeric
- •1 teaspoon ground cumin
- •1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- •Wooden or metal skewers
- •2 cups shredded green cabbage
- •1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- •1 large carrot, grated
- •1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- •1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
- •1/3 cup coconut milk
- •2 tablespoons lime juice
- •1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- •1 teaspoon ground ginger
- •1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder
- •1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- 2
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- 3
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- 4
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- 5
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- 6
While the chicken cooks, prepare the slaw by combining green cabbage, purple cabbage, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, and toasted coconut in a large mixing bowl.
- 7
In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, honey, ground ginger, chili powder, and salt to make the slaw dressing.
- 8
Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until evenly coated.
- 9
Serve the grilled chicken skewers with the spiced coconut cabbage slaw on the side, optionally garnished with extra cilantro or lime wedges.
Nutrition Information
Calories
380 calories
Protein
40g
Carbs
14g
Fat
18g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them as they can become dry. Cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for turmeric if I don’t have it?
A: If you don’t have turmeric, you can use curry powder or a smaller amount of saffron for a similar flavor profile. You can also omit it entirely, though the dish will lose some of its color and distinctive taste.
Q: How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best way to store them?
A: Store any leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. The slaw is best eaten within 1-2 days as it may start to lose its crunch.
Q: Can the slaw be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. However, if you do, keep the dressing separate and mix it with the vegetables just before serving to avoid the cabbage becoming too soggy.
Q: What can I use in place of coconut milk in the slaw dressing?
A: If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use plain yogurt, a non-dairy yogurt, or even a mix of olive oil and lime juice for a lighter dressing. Keep in mind this will alter the creamy texture and tropical flavor of the slaw.
Q: How can I cook the chicken if I don’t have a grill?
A: If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can cook the skewers in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also use a stovetop skillet to sear the skewers on medium-high heat.
Q: What are some variations for serving this dish?
A: You can serve the skewers and slaw as part of a larger meal with rice, quinoa, or naan bread. For a low-carb option, serve the chicken over a bed of greens or cauliflower rice. The slaw itself can also double as a refreshing topping for tacos or sandwiches.
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