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Close-up of spicy cumin chicken heart skewers, grilled to perfection

Spicy Cumin Chicken Heart Skewers

These spicy cumin chicken heart skewers are packed with flavor and make a unique appetizer or main dish. Marinated in a blend of spices and lime juice, they can be grilled, broiled, or pan-fried to perfection.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Kitchen shears
  • Small sharp knife
  • Paper towels
  • Medium bowl
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Grill
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken hearts (450g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Rinse and trim chicken hearts, then pat them dry with paper towels.
  • Combine olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
  • Add chicken hearts and lime juice to the marinade, toss to coat, then refrigerate for 20 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Soak wooden skewers if using, then thread 4-5 chicken hearts onto each skewer, keeping them close together.

Cooking Methods

  • Grill skewers on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
  • Broil skewers on a foil-lined, wire-rack baking sheet for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
  • Pan-fry skewers in a cast-iron skillet with oil for 3-4 minutes per side until done.

Serving

  • Remove skewers from heat and let them rest for a minute before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. Ensure skewers are not overcrowded during cooking to allow for even browning. These skewers also pair well with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.