If you’ve ever had Costco’s ready-made chicken kebabs, you know they’re a convenient and delicious option for a quick meal. Typically grilled, these kebabs are packed with flavor, featuring tender chunks of marinated chicken that are perfect for family dinners, cookouts, or meal prep. But what if you want to change things up a bit? Enter the fried version of this classic—Costco chicken kebab recipe fried!

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to take Costco’s pre-made chicken kebabs and transform them into crispy, golden-fried kebabs that are just as delicious and easy to prepare. With a few simple tweaks and tips, you can elevate this already tasty dish into something that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Why Fry Costco Chicken Kebabs?

Frying Costco chicken kebabs brings out a whole new level of flavor and texture. While grilling gives them a smoky flavor, frying creates a crispy exterior while locking in the juiciness of the chicken. The result is a tender, flavorful kebab with a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Benefits of Fried Chicken Kebabs:

• Crispy Texture: Frying gives the kebabs a crispy, golden crust.
• Juicy Inside: The high heat of frying quickly seals the outside, keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Versatile: You can serve fried chicken kebabs with a variety of sides, from salads to rice or even wrapped in flatbreads.
• Quick and Easy: If you’re using Costco’s pre-made kebabs, the prep time is minimal, and frying them takes just a few minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Costco Chicken Kebab Recipe Fried

You’ll be glad to know that you won’t need a long list of ingredients for this recipe. Costco’s pre-made chicken kebabs are already marinated, so the hard work is done for you. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Costco chicken kebabs: The star of the recipe! You can find these in Costco’s refrigerated section.
• Oil for frying: Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.
• Flour or cornstarch (optional): For an extra crispy texture, you can lightly coat the kebabs in flour or cornstarch before frying.
• Spices (optional): If you want to add more flavor, feel free to sprinkle additional spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper into your flour mixture.

How to Fry Costco Chicken Kebabs

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly fried Costco chicken kebabs:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Kebabs

If the Costco chicken kebabs are refrigerated, remove them from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking. If they are frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before frying.

Step 2: Optional Coating for Extra Crispiness

While Costco chicken kebabs are delicious on their own, you can add a light coating of flour or cornstarch to give them an extra crispy texture. Here’s how:

• In a shallow dish, mix about ½ cup of flour or cornstarch with your desired seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper).
• Lightly dredge the chicken kebabs in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. This step is optional but will give the kebabs a golden, crispy exterior when fried.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour about 1-2 inches of oil into a large skillet or deep frying pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small pinch of flour into it—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Kebabs

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the Costco chicken kebabs into the skillet. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each kebab for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Drain and Rest

Once the kebabs are cooked through and crispy, use tongs to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your crispy fried Costco chicken kebabs are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, rice, or a fresh salad.

Dipping Sauces to Pair with Fried Chicken Kebabs

Fried chicken kebabs are even better when paired with a delicious dipping sauce. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Garlic Aioli

A creamy garlic aioli pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken. You can make it by mixing mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.

2. Spicy Sriracha Mayo

For a little kick, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce for a spicy dipping sauce that complements the fried kebabs’ flavors.

3. Tzatziki Sauce

A Greek-inspired sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice, tzatziki adds a refreshing and tangy element to the meal.

4. Honey Mustard

The sweet and tangy combination of honey and mustard is a classic pairing with fried chicken kebabs. It’s simple to make at home with equal parts honey and mustard.

Side Dishes to Serve with Fried Chicken Kebabs

The versatility of fried chicken kebabs allows them to be paired with many different side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

1. Rice Pilaf

A simple rice pilaf seasoned with herbs and spices makes a great base for the fried kebabs. The fluffy rice complements the crispy exterior of the kebabs perfectly.

2. Salad

A fresh salad with greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes is a light and refreshing side dish that balances out the richness of the fried chicken kebabs. Top the salad with a light vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.

3. Grilled Vegetables

Add some color to your plate with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. The smoky flavor of the grilled veggies pairs well with the crispy fried kebabs.

4. Flatbread

Wrap your fried chicken kebabs in warm flatbread for a complete meal. Add lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki or garlic sauce for a delicious kebab wrap.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Costco Chicken Kebabs

Here are some tips to ensure your fried chicken kebabs turn out perfect every time:

1. Use the Right Oil

Choose an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying. This ensures the oil won’t burn and affect the taste of the kebabs.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Fry the kebabs in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan, which can cause the temperature of the oil to drop and result in soggy kebabs.

3. Monitor the Temperature

Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it gets too hot, the outside of the kebabs may burn before the inside is cooked through. Aim for a steady 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

Healthier Alternative: Air-Fried Chicken Kebabs

If you want a healthier option with less oil, you can air fry the Costco chicken kebabs. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.

Frying Costco chicken kebabs are a fun and delicious way to enjoy this classic meal with a crispy twist. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add a flour coating for extra crunch, the result is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Pair your fried Costco chicken kebabs with a variety of sides and dipping sauces to create a complete meal that everyone will love.

So next time you grab a pack of Costco chicken kebabs, try frying them for a crispy, savory alternative to the traditional grilled version. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!