Chicken Kebabs in Guvech with Eggplant & Mushrooms – A Turkish Delight?

In Turkish cuisine, the rich flavors of chicken kebabs blend beautifully with the smoky aroma of eggplant and mushrooms, especially when slow-cooked in a guvech. This earthenware crockpot helps develop deep flavors, making the dish truly unique. Whether you prefer mini casseroles or a big serving dish, the flexibility of this recipe allows you to serve it individually in cups or pots. The secret is to partially cook everything first, then top it with cheese and bake it in the oven to double the richness.

The taste is simply irresistible, and I warn you—once you try it, you will want more. This method is widely used to make hearty stews, ensuring every bite is packed with a perfect combination of textures and flavors. The key is in the slow cooking, which enhances the dish’s depth, whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients for Chicken Kebab with Eggplant and Mushrooms

• 4-5 medium-size eggplants
• 4 cups water
• 1 tbsp salt
• About 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 big chicken breast
• 1 medium onion
• 2-3 sweet green peppers
• 1/2 red bell pepper
• Cloves garlic
• Ripened tomatoes or 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp red pepper flake, paprika, oregano, black pepper to taste
• About 1-1+1/2 cups shredded kashar or mozzarella cheese
• Small earthenware crockpot or large wide casserole
• Refrigerate extra portions and bake fresh the next day
• Pairs well with Bulgur Pilaf, Soup, and Buğu Kebabı

Ingredient List and Measurements

Ingredient	Quantity
Eggplants	4-5 medium-size
Water	4 cups
Salt	1 tbsp
Vegetable Oil	About 1 cup
Chicken Breast	1 big piece
Onion	1 medium
Sweet Green Peppers	2-3 pieces
Red Bell Pepper	1/2 piece
Garlic Cloves	To taste
Ripened Tomatoes or Tomato Paste	1 tbsp
Red Pepper Flake, Paprika, Oregano, Black Pepper	1 tsp (each, to taste)
Shredded Kashar or Mozzarella Cheese	1-1½ cups
Small Earthenware Crockpot or Large Casserole	As needed

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Kebab Casserole with Eggplant & Mushrooms

Preparing the Eggplants:

Before cooking, the eggplants must be prepared correctly to bring out their best flavor. Start by washing them, cutting the stems, and peeling partially in strips. Then, dice them into 2cm cubes and place them in a big bowl with 4 cups water and salt. Add the pieces and let them wait for 20 minutes or more to remove any bitter taste.

• Squeeze excess juice, then move them to a strainer and pat dry with a kitchen towel. This step can be done in the morning if you plan to cook in the afternoon.
  
• In a wide big pan, heat vegetable oil about 3cm high, then fry in portions, making sure you’re not overcrowding the pan.
  
• Cook until they turn soft with a partially golden color, then transfer to a plate lined with a kitchen towel to rid excess oil.
  
• Soaking in salty water helps the eggplants soak much oil while frying, giving them a light texture.

Cooking the Chicken Base:

To build a flavorful base, start by heating 4-5 tbsp olive oil in a big wide pan. Dice the onion and saute until soft.

• Cut the chicken breast into big cubes and add it to the onions. Stir and cook until it turns a golden color on all sides.
  
• Dice green peppers and red peppers to a similar size as the chicken pieces. If using frozen, take the red peppers from the freezer.
  
• Mix in chopped garlic, sliced mushrooms, and cook for 4 minutes, then add grated tomatoes or tomato paste. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  
• Sprinkle in seasonings, salt, and gently stir everything to blend the flavors.
  
• Finally, toss in the fried eggplants and give it a final stir to combine all the ingredients.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole:

• Preheat the oven to 200C degree for the best results.
• Fill the individual earthenware guvech cups with the chicken base mixture, or use a big casserole to portion later.
• Top the dish with shredded kashar or mozzarella cheese to add a creamy texture.
• Bake until the cheese turns a golden color and the dish starts bubbling with rich flavors.

Serving Suggestions & Garnish Ideas:

Once the Chicken Kebab in Guvech with Eggplant & Mushrooms is baked, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up slightly. For an authentic touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Serving it with a side of thick yogurt, Turkish bread, or pide makes the meal even more satisfying. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or sumac can add an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor:

For a richer taste, consider roasting the eggplants before frying. This adds a smoky depth to the dish. If time allows, marinate the chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, and a pinch of oregano for 30 minutes before cooking. If using a covered guvech, slow-cook the dish at 180C for a more tender and flavorful result. You can also broil the dish for the last 2 minutes to get an extra golden crust on the cheese.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines:

This dish is ideal for meal prep, as the flavors become richer overnight. Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 180C for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the eggplants to become soggy and the cheese to lose its texture.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations:

If kashar cheese isn’t available, use cheddar, gouda, or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add chili powder. You can also swap chicken breast for chicken thighs for a juicier texture. If you want a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with extra mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas while keeping the seasoning the same.

Frequently Asked Questions?

What is Guvech, and why is it used in this recipe?

Guvech is a traditional earthenware pot used in Turkish cuisine for slow-cooking dishes. It enhances flavors by evenly distributing heat, making the chicken, eggplants, and mushrooms tender and rich in taste.

Can I make this dish without a Guvech?

Yes! If you don’t have a Guvech, you can use a regular oven-safe casserole dish. However, using a Guvech adds a deeper, more authentic flavor.

Do I have to fry the eggplants before adding them to the dish?

Frying the eggplants gives them a richer texture, but you can roast them instead for a healthier option. Roasting enhances their smoky flavor while reducing oil absorption.

Which type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Kashar cheese is traditionally used, but you can substitute it with mozzarella, gouda, or even a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a unique twist.

Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the dish juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content.

What can I serve with Chicken Kebabs in Guvech?

This dish pairs well with bulgur pilaf, Turkish bread, thick yogurt, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to maintain texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with extra mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas while keeping the seasonings the same.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder to enhance the heat level.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare and refrigerate it overnight. Baking it fresh the next day enhances the flavors even more.

Conclusion

Chicken Kebabs in Guvech with Eggplant and Mushrooms is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Turkish cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, smoky eggplant, and earthy mushrooms, all slow-cooked in a traditional guvech, creates a rich and satisfying meal. Whether prepared for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and comforting texture. With its versatility, easy preparation, and the ability to be stored for later, it’s a perfect addition to any meal plan. Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy a true taste of Turkey!