Ah, chicken spiedini! Just the mention of it can make taste buds tingle with anticipation. Whether you first discovered it at a local Italian restaurant or saw it popping up on social media, one thing is certain: this dish holds a special place in many hearts. Let me take you on a journey to explore this delightful dish, the love it evokes, and how to make it right in your own kitchen.
What is Chicken Spiedini?
For those unfamiliar, chicken spiedini originates from Italy, specifically the Abruzzo region. Simply put, spiedini refers to skewered meat, often grilled to perfection. In this case, we’re talking about chicken. Imagine tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of flavors, skewered, grilled, and served alongside your favorite sides.
The magic lies not just in the chicken itself but in the process. Skewering chicken allows it to cook evenly, and each bite is infused with the spices and herbs used in the marinade. You get this delightful charred flavor from grilling that is hard to resist. Perfect for family gatherings, summertime barbecues, or even a cozy dinner at home, chicken spiedini is versatile and delicious.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spiedini
Let’s be honest, this isn’t just any chicken dish. You’ll love chicken spiedini for several reasons:
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a burst of flavor. The marinade typically includes herbs, garlic, and lemon, elevating the chicken to new heights.
Easy to Prepare: You don’t need to be an experienced chef to whip this up. The marinade comes together in minutes, and with a bit of prep, the cooking part is a breeze.
Crowd-Pleaser: Chicken spiedini is a hit with almost everyone. Serve it at a gathering, and it’ll likely steal the show, leaving guests asking for seconds.
Healthy Option: Grilled chicken is generally lower in fat than fried alternatives and packed with protein.
Customizable: You can mix and match ingredients in the marinade or try different dipping sauces, bringing a personal touch to each batch.
The Ingredients
To make chicken spiedini, you’ll need a thoughtful selection of ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
Chicken Breast: 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces.
Olive Oil: 1/3 cup, for marinading the chicken and keeping it moist.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for that aromatic twist.
Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed to add tanginess.
Italian Herbs: 1 tablespoon, this could be a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavors.
Wooden Skewers: Soak in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill.
Now that you have the ingredients, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into preparing this dish!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Once cut, place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. The aroma at this stage is fantastic!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces. Toss everything well, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—though a few hours is even better for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water (if using) to prevent them from burning during grilling. This is a crucial step. Nobody wants charred skewers ruining their meal.
Step 5: Skewer the Chicken
Once marinated, it’s time to skewer the chicken. Thread 4 to 5 pieces onto each skewer. Don’t overcrowd them; leave a bit of space for heat circulation.
Step 6: Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing hot. For gas grills, just turn on the burners and let them heat up.
Step 7: Grill the Spiedini
Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side. Flip them halfway to get an even char. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes. Then, serve hot, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to take your chicken spiedini to another level:
Marinate Longer: If you have time, let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours or overnight. This intensifies the flavors significantly.
Use Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the marinade for an extra zing.
Try Other Meats: While chicken is traditional, beef or shrimp spiedini can be equally delightful.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Marinara, pesto, or even tzatziki can complement the flavors beautifully.
Experiment with Veggies: Adding veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the skewers can enhance the presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional aspect of what you’re eating is essential. Here’s a general breakdown per serving of chicken spiedini (assuming 5 servings from the recipe):
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on portion sizes and any accompanying dips or sides.
Can I Store Chicken Spiedini?
Absolutely! If you have leftovers, these can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh off the grill. Reheat gently to maintain moisture without drying it out.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Spiedini?
Pairing options are abundant! Here are a few ideas that complement the flavors beautifully:
Garlic Bread: A simple side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and tangy dressing perfectly balance the chicken.
Pasta Salad: A light Italian pasta salad with fresh veggies can work wonders.
Roasted Vegetables: Their natural sweetness and crunch can enhance the dish’s savory nature.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: A classic summertime side that adds a pop of sweetness.
Variations
When it comes to chicken spiedini, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fun variations you can try:
Lemon Herb Chicken Spiedini: Add more lemon zest and fresh herbs like dill to the marinade for a refreshing twist.
Spicy Chicken Spiedini: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the marinade for a kick.
Balsamic Glazed Spiedini: Use balsamic vinegar in place of lemon juice for a sweeter, tangy flavor.
Italian Sausage & Chicken Mix: Combine chunks of chicken and slices of Italian sausage on the skewers for a meat lover’s delight.
Pesto Chicken Spiedini: Marinate in a basil pesto sauce instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken spiedini stands as a delicious emblem of Italian-inspired cuisine, bringing together flavors and community. From its marinated beginnings to its satisfying char on the grill, it offers a burst of joy in every bite.
Savvy kitchen enthusiasts can adapt and experiment with this dish, showcasing personal tastes while enjoying the process. Next time you fire up your grill, consider serving up some flavorful chicken spiedini, and watch as it transforms your meal into a memorable occasion. Mangia!
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Chicken Spiedini Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
For those unfamiliar, chicken spiedini originates from Italy, specifically the Abruzzo region. Simply put, spiedini refers to skewered meat, often grilled to perfection. In this case, we’re talking about chicken. Imagine tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of flavors, skewered, grilled, and served alongside your favorite sides.
The magic lies not just in the chicken itself but in the process. Skewering chicken allows it to cook evenly, and each bite is infused with the spices and herbs used in the marinade. You get this delightful charred flavor from grilling that is hard to resist. Perfect for family gatherings, summertime barbecues, or even a cozy dinner at home, chicken spiedini is versatile and delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
-
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Once cut, place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
-
In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. The aroma at this stage is fantastic!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
-
Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces. Toss everything well, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—though a few hours is even better for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Skewers
-
While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water (if using) to prevent them from burning during grilling. This is a crucial step. Nobody wants charred skewers ruining their meal.
Step 5: Skewer the Chicken
-
Once marinated, it’s time to skewer the chicken. Thread 4 to 5 pieces onto each skewer. Don’t overcrowd them; leave a bit of space for heat circulation.
Step 6: Heat the Grill
-
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing hot. For gas grills, just turn on the burners and let them heat up.
Step 7: Grill the Spiedini
-
Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side. Flip them halfway to get an even char. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Step 8: Serve Hot
-
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes. Then, serve hot, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 493kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 27g42%
- Saturated Fat 10.9g55%
- Trans Fat 1.5g
- Cholesterol 210mg70%
- Sodium 232mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
- Protein 60g120%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some handy tips to take your chicken spiedini to another level:
Marinate Longer: If you have time, let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours or overnight. This intensifies the flavors significantly.
Use Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the marinade for an extra zing.
Try Other Meats: While chicken is traditional, beef or shrimp spiedini can be equally delightful.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Marinara, pesto, or even tzatziki can complement the flavors beautifully.
Experiment with Veggies: Adding veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the skewers can enhance the presentation and flavor.
