Chicken Sekwa
Smoky, spicy, and incredibly tender grilled chicken skewers from Nepal. Marinated in yogurt and a blend of Himalayan spices, this is a perfect appetizer or main course that brings authentic street food flavors to your kitchen.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the curd, ginger-garlic paste, mustard oil, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, timur, and salt.
- c.Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, consistent marinade paste.
- d.Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and use your hands or a spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Chicken
- b.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
- c.Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for a minimum of 4 hours. For the most tender and flavorful results, marinate overnight (8-12 hours).
- 3
Step 3
- a.Skewer the Chicken
- b.If you are using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- c.Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to allow for even cooking.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Sekwa
- b.Preheat your grill (charcoal is preferred for authentic flavor) to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C).
- c.Place the skewers on the hot grill grates. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes to get an even char on all sides.
- d.During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, baste the chicken with melted ghee for extra flavor and moisture.
- e.The sekwa is done when the chicken is cooked through, tender, and has visible char marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Carefully remove the hot skewers from the grill and let them rest on a platter for 2-3 minutes.
- c.Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with puffed rice (bhuja), sliced onions, and fresh lime wedges on the side.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Using chicken thighs will result in juicier sekwa than chicken breast.
- 2Don't skip the marination time; it's crucial for tenderizing the chicken and developing deep flavor.
- 3For an authentic smoky flavor, use the 'Dhungar method': place a small steel bowl with a piece of burning charcoal inside the marinating chicken, drizzle with ghee, and cover tightly for 5-10 minutes.
- 4If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can cook these on a cast-iron grill pan on the stovetop or under the broiler in your oven.
- 5Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use prevents them from burning on the grill.
- 6Mustard oil provides a traditional pungent flavor, but you can substitute it with any neutral vegetable oil if you prefer.
- 7For a vibrant color, add a teaspoon of Kashmiri red chili powder to the marinade.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken with 500g of paneer or firm tofu, cut into cubes. Reduce the marination time to 1-2 hours and grilling time to 7-10 minutes.
Different MeatDifferent Meat
This marinade works wonderfully with lamb, mutton, or pork cubes. Adjust grilling time accordingly, as these meats may take longer to cook.
Oven MethodOven Method
If you don't have a grill, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra char.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
Boosts Immunity
The marinade contains spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.
Probiotic Power
The use of yogurt (curd) in the marinade provides beneficial probiotics, which support a healthy gut microbiome and aid in digestion.
Bone Health
Chicken is a good source of phosphorus, a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of Chicken Sekwa (around 150g) contains approximately 280-320 calories, primarily from the chicken thighs and oils used in the marinade and for basting.