Easy Chicken Spiedini Recipes to Try Now
If you’re searching for an effortless yet mouthwatering dish to whip up for dinner or a weekend barbecue, look no further than Chicken Spiedini. These juicy, flavorful skewers are perfect for grilling or baking, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken pieces marinated with herbs, lemon, and a touch of garlic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes are simple to follow and promise a dinner everyone will rave about.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Chicken Spiedini comes together fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Bold Flavors: A tangy lemon marinade paired with garlic and herbs provides a fresh, vibrant taste that’s hard to beat.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you want to grill, bake, or broil, Chicken Spiedini suits any kitchen setup.
- Healthy and Light: Lean chicken breast skewers are a protein-packed option that won’t weigh you down.
- Great for Gatherings: Perfect party food, easy to serve, and fun to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Spiedini recipe relies on simple ingredients that come together beautifully, creating a balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each adds a distinctive touch, from the zestiness of lemon to the earthiness of fresh herbs.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy meat that cooks evenly on skewers.
- Lemon juice and zest: Adds essential brightness and natural acidity to tenderize the chicken while enhancing its taste.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the marinade with a rich, aromatic depth that’s unmistakably delicious.
- Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and parsley delivers authentic Mediterranean flair.
- Olive oil: Provides moisture and helps seal in flavors while giving the chicken a beautifully golden finish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all the ingredients and balance the overall dish.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Needed to thread the chicken pieces for easy handling on the grill or oven.
Variations for Chicken Spiedini
One of the best things about Chicken Spiedini is how customizable it is to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices, marinades, or add-ons to keep this classic exciting every time you make it.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to your marinade for a bold, spicy spin.
- Herb Swap: Replace Italian herbs with fresh cilantro and lime for a Mexican-inspired twist.
- Vegetable Boost: Alternate chicken chunks with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini slices for color and texture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade for those sensitive to gluten.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Serve Chicken Spiedini with a side of fresh green salad or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
How to Make Chicken Spiedini
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized pieces, about one inch, to ensure they cook uniformly on the skewers.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly to blend all the flavors.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and toss them gently to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor and tenderness.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between them to allow even cooking and a nice char from the heat source.
Step 5: Cook the Spiedini
Grill the chicken skewers over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes or broil for about 10 minutes, flipping once.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, let the Chicken Spiedini rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Garnish as desired and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spiedini
- Even Pieces: Cut chicken into uniform sizes to ensure it cooks evenly without drying out.
- Marinate Longer: For more intense flavor, marinate your chicken overnight in the fridge.
- Pre-soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers so heat can circulate properly.
- Rest After Cooking: Let the meat rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy and tender.
How to Serve Chicken Spiedini
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the brightness of the dish right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair Chicken Spiedini with classic Mediterranean side dishes such as a crisp Greek salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or a light couscous salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the skewers on a wooden board alongside dipping sauces like tzatziki, garlic aioli, or spicy harissa. You can also slide the chicken off the skewers onto a bed of grilled vegetables for a colorful, inviting platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Spiedini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled promptly maintains freshness and food safety.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Chicken Spiedini by wrapping the skewers tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and thaw safely in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm Chicken Spiedini gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or on the stovetop in a pan over medium-low heat to retain moisture and avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and offer a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a little longer to cook through.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning and ensures safety during cooking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
The minimum marinating time is 30 minutes, but for best flavor penetration and tenderness, marinate for 1 to 2 hours or even overnight in the fridge.
Can I cook Chicken Spiedini indoors?
Definitely! You can bake or broil Chicken Spiedini in your oven if grilling outside isn’t an option, and they will still turn out delicious.
What can I freeze Chicken Spiedini in?
Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, wrapping the skewers individually or in small batches to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Spiedini is a true winner for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful meals that are quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. With endless variations and easy cooking methods, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill or preheat the oven, and enjoy these tender, vibrant Chicken Spiedini recipes right now!
