Kebabs are a common dish in the Eastern Mediterranean countries. If you want to show love as an Armenian, invite someone for “khorovatz,” meaning grilled. Khorovatz or kebabs are synonymous with joy and celebration. It’s a tradition in the highlands of Armenia to make a toast to the grill master, also known as the host. This marinade is delicious, aromatic, and best if the chicken gets marinated for a minimum of eight hours or overnight and refrigerated.

Ingredients:

• 2 LBS boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (2 lemons)
• ½ cup olive oil
• 6 cloves of crushed garlic
• 2 TBS tomato paste
• 1 TBS ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 TBS dried oregano or tarragon
• 2 tsp salt
• ½ tsp allspice

Directions

1. Cut chicken pieces into equal sizes.
2. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients well. Add chicken, cover, and marinate.
3. Let chicken sit at room temperature for one hour before cooking.
4. Prepare grill for medium heat or oven at 380F for broiling.
5. Thread chicken onto skewers.
6. Grill or broil, flipping the chicken until charred, about 12 minutes each side. Serve over rice or in a pita bread and dress as desired.