Chicken Doner Kebab at Home – Prepared with tender chicken thighs and a flavorful yogurt marinade, this is the ultimate homemade Chicken Doner recipe.
Enjoy it in naan, wraps, pita, over rice, with chips, or paired with a fresh salad. The options are endless!
Table of Contents
What is a doner kebab?
Doner kebab, literally translating to “rotating kebab,” is a Turkish street food featuring seasoned meat stacked on a vertical rotisserie.
As it cooks, the outer layers are shaved off and served with fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces nestled in warm flatbread.
Where is doner kebab from?
While the exact origin is debated, döner kebab is widely recognized as a Turkish invention. Turkish immigrants brought it to Europe in the 20th century, where it exploded in popularity.Now it is popular all over the world.
Doner Kebab vs. Shawarma vs. Gyro
While doner kebab, shawarma, and gyro all share the concept of “rotating meat,” the magic truly lies in their distinct marinades. Each region infuses its unique character into these delicious dishes.
Doner Kebab:
Hailing from Turkey, doner kebab boasts a bolder flavor profile. Expect a generous amount of cumin, smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness), and a touch of chili flakes.
Shawarma:
This Middle Eastern delight is characterized by a warm and aromatic blend of spices. Coriander, turmeric, and cumin combine with lemon juice (or vinegar) to create a more subtle yet complex flavor profile
Gyro:
This Greek spin on the rotating meat concept features a distinct herbal character thanks to a hefty amount of dried oregano or mixed herbs in the marinade.
What cut of meat is used for doner kebab
Beef: Often used cuts include sirloin or round, which are lean and can be sliced thinly. Sometimes, beef chuck or brisket is used for its flavor and tenderness.
Lamb: Common cuts include shoulder, leg, or a mix of both. Lamb shoulder is particularly favored for its rich flavor and tenderness.
Chicken: Typically, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are used because they remain juicy and flavorful after cooking. Chicken breast can be used too but might be drier.
Chicken doner kebab ingredients
For chicken doner kebab, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken Thighs
Boneless, skinless, cut into thin strips or chunks for marinating.
Yogurt
Plain yogurt, used as a base for the marinade to tenderize and add flavor.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed to add a tangy flavor and help tenderize the chicken.
Garlic
Minced or grated for a robust flavor.
Olive Oil
For richness and to help the spices adhere to the chicken.
Ground Cumin
Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Paprika
For a smoky and slightly sweet taste.
Ground Coriander
Adds a hint of citrus and complexity.
Cayenne Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes
For a bit of heat (adjust to taste).
Salt
Enhances all the flavors.
Chicken doner kebab marinade
The secret to delicious chicken doner kebab is the marinade. Chicken is soaked in a yogurt mixture with spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and sometimes chili flakes for extra heat.
This flavorful marinade gives the chicken a rich taste that pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces.
Chicken doner kebab can be served in various delicious ways:
In Wraps with fresh veggie salad and sauce.
In Naan: with your favorite toppings and sauces.
Over Rice: Serve the chicken on a bed of rice with salad or roasted vegetables.
In Salads :Pair chicken doner kebab with salad.
With Chips: Chicken doner kebab and chips are a favorite pairing for children.
In Pita Bread: Fill pita bread with the chicken, veggies, and sauces for satisfying meal.
Chicken doner kebab at home with 3 ways
This easy homemade chicken doner kebab recipe shows you three simple ways to make doner kebabs at home: on the grill, in the oven, or using an air fryer. With these kitchen tools, you can enjoy delicious chicken doner kebabs without leaving your house.
You can experiment with flavors, control ingredients, and enjoy fresh kebabs whenever you want.
If you love air frying, you’ll also enjoy this recipe along with other air fryer favorites like baked ginger lemon chicken wings and air fryer chicken tenders.
FAQs
Can I make chicken doner kebab at home?
Yes! You can marinate your chosen meat, cook it on a rotisserie (or in a pan if you don’t have one), and assemble your kebab with your favorite toppings.
Is doner chicken kebab healthy?
Chicken doner kebab can be a healthy choice, especially when paired with lots of fresh vegetables. Using lean chicken, grilling it, and serving it with veggies instead of heavy sides like fries or bread keeps the meal nutritious and balanced.
The spices in the marinade add flavor without adding unnecessary calories, making it a tasty and wholesome option.
Can I make chicken doner kebab at home?
Yes! You can marinate your chosen meat, cook it on a rotisserie (or in a pan if you don’t have one), and assemble your kebab with your favorite toppings.
Can I make chicken doner kebab at home?
Yes! You can marinate your chosen meat, cook it on a rotisserie (or in a pan if you don’t have one), and assemble your kebab with your favorite toppings.
Is doner chicken kebab healthy?
Chicken doner meat can be keto-friendly if it’s prepared without sugar or high-carb ingredients. The chicken itself is low in carbs, and as long as it’s served with low-carb veggies instead of bread or wraps, it fits well with a keto diet.
Is chicken doner meat Keto friendly?
Chicken doner meat can be keto-friendly if it’s prepared without sugar or high-carb ingredients. The chicken itself is low in carbs, and as long as it’s served with low-carb veggies instead of bread or wraps, it fits well with a keto diet.
What is the difference between chicken doner kebab and shish?
The key differences between doner kebab and shish kebab are in the cooking method and the form of the meat. Chicken doner kebab is marinated and cooked on a vertical rotisserie, with the outer layers sliced off as they cook. It’s usually served in flatbread with vegetables and sauces.
In contrast, shish kebab features marinated chicken cubes skewered and grilled over an open flame, often served with rice, vegetables, or flatbread.
what is chicken doner kebab made of?
It’s made with skinless,boneless chicken tossed in a bold yogurt marinade with lemon juice and loads of warm Middle Eastern flavors. You’ll love this chicken doner kebab recipe for wraps, platters, bowls, or over your favorite salad!
What is the difference between Chicken Doner and Chicken Kebab?
Chicken doner is marinated and cooked on a vertical rotisserie, with the outer layers sliced off and served in flatbread. Chicken kebabs are marinated, skewered, and grilled over an open flame, and can be served on the skewer or with sides.
Is chicken doner healthier than lamb?
Chicken is generally healthier than lamb because it is leaner, with lower fat content and higher protein levels.
Can i freeze chicken doner?
Yes, you can freeze both uncooked marinated chicken and cooked chicken doner.
For marinated chicken, freeze it for up to 3 months and defrost it in the fridge when ready to use. For cooked chicken doner, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, squeezing out excess air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to reheat chicken doner?
To reheat chicken doner, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Is chicken doner meat Keto friendly?
Chicken doner meat can be keto-friendly if it’s prepared without sugar or high-carb ingredients. The chicken itself is low in carbs, and as long as it’s served with low-carb veggies instead of bread or wraps, it fits well with a keto diet.
What is the difference between chicken doner kebab and shish?
The key differences between doner kebab and shish kebab are in the cooking method and the form of the meat. Chicken doner kebab is marinated and cooked on a vertical rotisserie, with the outer layers sliced off as they cook. It’s usually served in flatbread with vegetables and sauces.
In contrast, shish kebab features marinated chicken cubes skewered and grilled over an open flame, often served with rice, vegetables, or flatbread.
What are some vegetarian or vegan options ?
Halloumi: This cheese is a popular choice for vegetarians because it holds its shape well when grilled. You can marinate it in spices and herbs for extra flavor
Oyster mushrooms: Oyster mushrooms have a similar texture to lamb and can be marinated and cooked to create a vegan kebab filling.
Seitan: Seitan is a wheat gluten-based meat substitute that can be seasoned and cooked to resemble the texture and flavor of lamb doner meat.Falafel, roasted tofu or egg plant could be your vegan kebab filling.
Explore numerous tasty recipes by clicking the links below.
what is chicken doner kebab made of?
It’s made with skinless,boneless chicken tossed in a bold yogurt marinade with lemon juice and loads of warm Middle Eastern flavors. You’ll love this chicken doner kebab recipe for wraps, platters, bowls, or over your favorite salad!
What is the difference between Chicken Doner and Chicken Kebab?
Chicken doner is marinated and cooked on a vertical rotisserie, with the outer layers sliced off and served in flatbread. Chicken kebabs are marinated, skewered, and grilled over an open flame, and can be served on the skewer or with sides.
Is chicken doner healthier than lamb?
Chicken is generally healthier than lamb because it is leaner, with lower fat content and higher protein levels.
Can i freeze chicken doner?
Yes, you can freeze both uncooked marinated chicken and cooked chicken doner.
For marinated chicken, freeze it for up to 3 months and defrost it in the fridge when ready to use.
For cooked chicken doner, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag, squeezing out excess air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to reheat chicken doner?
To reheat chicken doner, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Can we make chicken doner kebab at home?
Yes, you can make delicious doner kebab at home! This easy chicken doner kebab recipe is a take on the popular Turkish kebab.
This easy homemade chicken doner kebab recipe shows you three simple ways to make doner kebabs at home: on the grill, in the oven, or using an air fryer. With these kitchen tools, you can enjoy delicious chicken doner kebabs without leaving your house.If you love air frying you will definitely love our air fryer chicken tenders
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3 Easy Ways to Cook Chicken Doner Kebab at Home
Description
Chicken doner kebab is a flavorful Turkish dish made with marinated chicken that's grilled, baked, or air-fried, then thinly sliced. It's served in warm pita or flatbread with fresh veggies and sauces. Perfect for a quick and satisfying homemade meal.Â
Ingredients
Instructions
Follow these step by step instructions to make chicken doner kebab at home
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Flatten the Meat: ( chicken/ beef/ mutton)
 Chose high fat protein (lamb, beef, or chicken)Â
Flatten the meat with a mallet or rolling pin to tenderize the fibers.
Marinades add flavor and can slightly tenderize the surface, but tenderizing from pounding is the main reason for even cooking and better marinade absorption.
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Prepare chicken doner kebab marinade:
Combine:Â In a large bowl, mix all your desired spices with yogurt.
Marinate:Â Add the beef or mutton and toss well to coat the meat evenly.
Rest:Â Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours for a flavorful result.
For Deeper Flavor (Optional):Â Marinate overnight for an even deeper layer of flavor and extra tenderizing, especially for tougher cuts of beef or mutton.
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Skewer Up:
Grab two skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking. OR
Try Potato Skewer Hack:Â
For a truly unique twist, this recipe features a special chicken skewering method inspired by food fusion doner kebabs. This approach not only adds a creative touch, but also helps the potato skewer hack work its magic. As you'll see, the potato skewers keep the chicken pieces secure and promote even cooking while air frying.
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Air Fryer Magic:
1. Get your air fryer ready by preheating it to 160°C (320°F) or your desired temperature (refer to your air fryer's instructions).
2. Carefully place the marinated chicken skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring enough space between them for even cooking. Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes. Then, using tongs, carefully flip the skewers for even browning on both sides.
3.If you desire a crispier exterior, lightly spray the chicken with oil after flipping. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Grilling Doner Kebab:
Preheat grill to 400°F (medium-high heat).Place skewers on grates, close the grill.
Cook for 10-15 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through (165°F internal temp).Rest chicken for a few minutes before serving.
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Cooking in Oven:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange kebabs on a deep pan with edges, leaving space between chicken and pan bottom. Bake on center rack for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and charred. (Wearing oven mitts!) Flip skewers, brush chicken with pan juices, and bake another 20 minutes (until almost cooked through, around 160°F). Remove and rest chicken for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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Assembling :
 Start by gently warming your pita bread in a pan, oven, or microwave for a few seconds to make it pliable. Fill the warmed pita with a generous amount of thinly sliced doner kebab meat.( place cooked meat on cutting board and slice thinly as required. Add a vibrant mix of chopped fresh vegetables for a refreshing crunch and flavor boost.
Sauce it Up: Drizzle your chosen sauces( yogurt sauce/ mayo garlic sauce/ tahini)Â over the meat and vegetables salad (Julien red onion, tomato, cucumber & lettuce, toss them with olive oil salt pepper and lemon juice)
Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
Extra Touches (Optional):Â For an extra layer of taste and texture, consider adding crumbled feta cheese, pickled onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
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Serving Suggestions:
 While the kebab cooks, warm your bread according to package instructions. Once cooked, remove the kebab from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice off thin strips of meat using a sharp knife. Stuff the warm bread with the meat & salad and top with tahini, Greek yogurt or mayo garlic sauce.
Pita Bread Wraps:
Fill warm pita bread with sliced chicken. Add your desired sauce and sliced vegetables (or a salad).
Kebab Plates:
Arrange sliced chicken on a plate or bed of fluffy Middle Eastern rice. Serve your salad and sauce on the side for a customizable dining experience.
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- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 241kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 2.49g13%
- Cholesterol 163.8mg55%
- Sodium 332.1mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 7.3g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1.89g8%
- Sugars 2.8g
- Protein 34.5g69%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Quality:Â For the best flavor and texture, use good quality meat. Opt for a shoulder cut of lamb, beef, or a combination of both.
- Marinating: Marinate the meat for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor.
- Cooking:Â Due to their denser texture, beef and mutton kebabs may take slightly longer to cook through compared to chicken. Keep an eye on them during the cooking process.
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For juicy kebabs, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F when you remove them from the heat source (grill or oven). The chicken will continue cooking as it rests, reaching a safe final temperature of 165°F by serving time. Always double-check the internal temperature before serving.
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Skip the Meat Tenderizer: Chicken naturally tenderizes quicker and doesn't require a dedicated tenderizer in the marinade.
I’ve tried and found incredible taste and aroma.
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