Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses

Craving juicy, flavorful chicken skewers with a touch of unexpected sweetness? My Lebanese Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses recipe is the answer! Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a symphony of spices, then grilled to smoky perfection. The secret weapon? A touch of pomegranate molasses that adds a delightful sweet-tart depth of flavor.

Lebanese Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses Recipe

Ingredients

Time

Total:
1h 20m
Prep:
5m
Cook:
15m
Extra:
plus 1h marinating
  • Chicken breast, 1 lb (500 g)
  • Garlic Powder, 1/2 tbsp
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1 tbsp
  • Pomegranate Molasses 2 tbsp
  • 7-Spice Mix (see tips), 1 tbsp
  • Oregano, 1/2 tbsp
  • Salt, pinch

Notes

You can use chicken thighs if you prefer.

Nutrition Facts

Serves: 4 (serving size: 1 skewer)
Calories per serving: 180
% Daily Value
Total Fat 10g15%
Saturated 2.3g11%
Omega-3 0g2%
Cholesterol 46.5g16%
Total Carbohydrates 7.5g3%
Dietary Fibers 0g0%
Sugars 7.5g8%
Protein 15g33%
Potassium 300mg9%
Iron 1mg7%
Vitamin A 20mg3%
Sodium 87.5mg4%

Instructions

Step 1

Dice the chicken breast into medium-sized cubes.

Then, make a marinade by mixing all the other ingredients and coat the chicken cubes evenly.

Let the chicken marinate for 1 hour in the fridge.

Step 2

Set the oven to grill mode and to max temperature.

After marinating the chicken, skewer it using metal or wooden skewers.

If you only have wooden skewers, I recommend leaving them to soak in water for around 30 minutes to keep them from burning.

Of course, you can also barbeque the skewers if you prefer.

Step 3

Roast the chicken skewers for around 10-15 minutes or until nice and charred.

If possible, rotate the skewers every 5 minutes and brush the chicken with any leftover pomegranate marinade.

Step 4

Once the chicken skewers are ready, you can drizzle them with some fresh pomegranate molasses for colour and extra flavour.

All done! Enjoy this easy yet utterly delicious Lebanese chicken with pomegranate molasses.

It's one of my favourite dishes, and I hope it'll become one of yours too!

Goes well with

If you want to pair these tasty chicken skewers with some healthy greens, try out my dandelion leaves salad or the classic Fattoush.

FAQ

What is Lebanese Grilled Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses?

This dish features marinated chicken grilled or barbecued to juicy perfection. The marinade incorporates pomegranate molasses, a sweet and tangy syrup, and aromatic spices, resulting in a flavorful and slightly sweet chicken dish.

What does Lebanese Grilled Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses taste like?

This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is juicy and tender with a slightly sweet and tangy glaze from the pomegranate molasses. The smoky char from the grill adds another layer of complexity. The warm spices complement the sweetness and tang, creating a well-rounded and flavorful dish.

What are the key ingredients in this dish?

  • Chicken: Chicken pieces like thighs, drumsticks, or breasts are commonly used.

  • Pomegranate Molasses: This key ingredient adds a unique sweet-tart flavor and helps caramelize the chicken during grilling.

  • Olive Oil: Provides a base for the marinade and keeps the chicken moist.

  • Spices: Aromatic spices like garlic, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, and paprika are typical. Some variations might include allspice, cinnamon, or sumac. For simplicity, I like to use 7-Spice Mix, which contains the most common Lebanese spices.

How is Lebanese Grilled Chicken with Pomegranate Molasses prepared?

The chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of pomegranate molasses, olive oil, spices, and sometimes lemon juice. For a deeper flavor, the marinating time can vary from 30 minutes to several hours. The chicken is then grilled or barbecued until cooked through and beautifully charred.

Can this dish be made with other types of meat?

Yes, the marinade and pomegranate molasses glaze can also be used with other types of meat, such as lamb, beef, or even fish. Adjust the marinating and cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat.

How are pomegranate molasses different from regular molasses?

Pomegranate molasses is made from reduced pomegranate juice and has a tangy, sweet, and slightly sour taste, unlike regular molasses, which is a byproduct of sugar cane or beet sugar refining and has a rich, sweet, and slightly bitter flavor.

Can pomegranate molasses be purchased ready-made?

Yes, pomegranate molasses can be found in many grocery stores, especially those that carry Middle Eastern or international products. It is usually located in the condiment or ethnic foods aisle.

How do you make pomegranate molasses at home?

To make pomegranate molasses, simmer pomegranate juice, sugar, and lemon juice over low heat until it reduces to a thick syrup. This process can take about an hour, and the sauce should be stirred occasionally to prevent burning.

How do you store and reheat leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish and warm in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until heated through, or microwave on medium power until warm. Avoid overcooking to maintain the chicken's juiciness.