Easy Chicken Spiedini Recipe to Try Today
If you’ve ever craved a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken with vibrant herbs and a touch of zest, you’re going to love this easy Chicken Spiedini recipe. Perfect for any meal, this recipe delivers tender, grilled skewers bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or preparing an impressive appetizer for guests, Chicken Spiedini brings a fresh, exciting twist to your table with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: The marinade requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time, so you can have dinner ready in no time.
- Juicy, Tender Chicken Every Time: The marinade’s acidity and herbs work together to keep the meat moist and flavorful even after grilling.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend barbecue, this Chicken Spiedini fits right in and impresses.
- Healthy and Light: Using lean chicken breast and fresh herbs makes this dish a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Customizable Flavors: You can easily tweak the recipe with different spices or vegetables on the skewers to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Spiedini recipe keeps the ingredient list simple, focusing on fresh components that enhance taste, texture, and color effortlessly. Each element plays its part in creating that classic Italian-inspired flavor everyone loves.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor while tenderizing the meat for juicy skewers.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic intensifies the savory notes.
- Dried Oregano: Provides a classic Mediterranean herb flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds a gentle spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped for garnish and a fresh color pop.
- Wooden or Metal Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning if using on a grill or broiler.
Variations for Chicken Spiedini
Feel free to make this Chicken Spiedini recipe your own! It’s wonderfully adaptable based on what you have in your kitchen, dietary preferences, or the flavor profiles you enjoy most. Here are some simple but tasty variations to try.
- Herb Mix Swap: Replace oregano with rosemary or thyme for an earthier aroma and flavor twist.
- Spicy Version: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika to introduce a smoky heat.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Thread cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onions between chicken pieces for extra color and nutrition.
- Greek Style: Incorporate a sprinkle of crumbled feta and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce when serving.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Make Chicken Spiedini
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined. This marinade will infuse the chicken with bright, savory notes while tenderizing it.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, then place them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for maximum juiciness.
Step 3: Thread Chicken onto Skewers
Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto your soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers, ensuring the chunks are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and has appealing grill marks.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once off the grill, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the skewers for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or sauces.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Spiedini
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading.
- Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t Overcook: Chicken cooks quickly; remove the skewers as soon as the internal temperature reaches 165°F for juicy results.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor much better than bottled.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling to seal in the juices.
How to Serve Chicken Spiedini
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to Chicken Spiedini. For added zest, sprinkle a little lemon zest or drizzle extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair Chicken Spiedini with light Mediterranean sides like a crisp green salad, grilled vegetables, or a fluffy couscous salad with tomatoes and cucumbers to create a balanced meal bursting with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of dipping sauces like tzatziki, marinara, or a tangy balsamic glaze for a visually inviting and interactive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chicken Spiedini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful for easy next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, remove the chicken from the skewers, seal tightly in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken while preserving its tender texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay moist and tender, adding a richer flavor to your Chicken Spiedini.
Do I need to soak metal skewers before grilling?
No, soaking is only necessary for wooden or bamboo skewers to prevent burning during cooking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours, to maintain the perfect texture without becoming mushy.
Can I make Chicken Spiedini indoors?
Yes! You can grill the skewers on a grill pan or use the broiler setting in your oven for similar results if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
What sides go well with Chicken Spiedini?
Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, rice pilafs, or light pasta salads all complement this dish beautifully for a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Spiedini is truly one of those recipes that combines simplicity with incredible flavor and versatility. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, these skewers deliver juicy, tender chicken that’s perfect any day of the week. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a celebration with every bite!
