The sound of sizzling chicken skewers on the grill fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around and tease their taste buds. That’s the moment I first discovered the joy of Chicken Spiedini—a dish that effortlessly transforms a simple dinner into a delightful feast. With its crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy interior, each bite bursts with flavor, complemented by a luscious garlic butter sauce that takes it to new heights.
Amidst the chaos of everyday life, I found this gem when I was in search of a quick yet impressive meal that would break the monotony of our weeknight routines. Chicken Spiedini is not only easy to whip up, but it also impresses friends and family with its vibrant presentation, perfect for any occasion—from casual cookouts to special get-togethers.
So whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone bored with fast food, let me guide you through this sensational recipe that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of culinary magic to your dinner table in just 30 minutes.
Why will you love Chicken Spiedini?
Unmatched Flavor: This recipe delivers a delightful burst of lemon and garlic that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, this dish impresses with both taste and eye-catching presentation.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with your favorite sides, from a fresh salad to grilled veggies, making it a hit at any meal.
Easy to Master: Even if you’re a beginner, this simple recipe allows you to shine like a pro in the kitchen!
Chicken Spiedini Ingredients
• Gather the essentials to create this flavorful Chicken Spiedini!
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken breasts – boneless and skinless for easy grilling.
- Salt – to taste; enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper – adds a touch of spice for depth.
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil – keeps the chicken tender and juicy while grilling.
- ¼ cup dry white wine – infuses a subtle richness and acidity.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – brightens the dish with zesty freshness.
For the Coating
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs – contributes a crispy texture and delicious flavor.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- ½ cup butter – provides richness and a luxurious finish.
- 4 cloves garlic – minced for an aromatic kick.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – complements the garlic for a vibrant sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – finely chopped for a pop of color and freshness.
Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s dive into the magic of preparing this exquisite Chicken Spiedini!
How to Make Chicken Spiedini
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Cut Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces, then season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their flavor.
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Marinate Chicken: In a medium glass bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dry white wine, and lemon juice. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, cover, and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
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Coat Chicken: After marinating, use tongs to lift the chicken pieces from the marinade, placing them on a plate. Dredge the chicken in Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is fully coated for that crispy, golden crust.
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Skewer Chicken: Take 4 to 5 pieces of the breadcrumb-coated chicken and slide them onto skewers, making sure they fit snugly without crowding.
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Grill Chicken: Lightly spray your grill or grill pan with cooking oil and heat it on medium-high. Add the skewers and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn golden brown, then flip them and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
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Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until it’s fragrant and slightly golden.
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Finish the Dish: Remove the saucepan from heat and gently stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Drizzle this delectable garlic butter sauce over the Chicken Spiedini, serving warm with your favorite side for a complete meal.
Optional: Serve with a fresh salad for a refreshing complement!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Spiedini Variations
Feel free to explore exciting twists on traditional Chicken Spiedini to match your cravings and dietary needs!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a delightful heat that wakes up the taste buds. This is perfect for spice lovers looking to elevate their dish!
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Herb-Infused: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano in the marinade to infuse rustic flavors that evoke the joys of a Tuscan kitchen. The aromatic twist enhances that fresh, homemade feel!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers to make this dish celiac-friendly while keeping the crunch intact. Enjoy deliciousness without the worry!
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Zestier Lemon: Increase the lemon juice in both the marinade and garlic butter sauce for extra zing. This adds a refreshing brightness that dances on your palate, perfect for sunny days.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese with the breadcrumbs for a savory flavor boost. The cheese melts slightly during cooking, creating a deliciously rich crust.
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Veggie Twist: Alternate between chicken pieces and colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for a vibrant, healthful addition. Not only do they add crunch, but they also make for a beautiful presentation!
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Soy Sauce Marinade: For a savory Asian flair, replace the white wine with soy sauce or teriyaki sauce in the marinade. The umami taste will surprise and delight your guests!
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Mediterranean Style: Incorporate olives and sun-dried tomatoes into the garlic butter sauce for a Mediterranean twist that makes your taste buds sing! This variation brings the essence of Mediterranean summers to your dinner table.
Expert Tips for Chicken Spiedini
Marinate Time Matters: Always allow your chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, but preferably up to 12 hours. This enhances the flavor of your Chicken Spiedini.
Coat Generously: Ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated in breadcrumbs to achieve that perfect crispy texture when grilled.
Watch the Heat: Cooking your skewers on medium-high heat is essential. Too low and they’ll dry out; too high, and they might burn.
Rest Post-Cooking: Let your Chicken Spiedini rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Dress It Up: Feel free to customize the garlic butter sauce with additional herbs or spices for a personal touch. Your guests will love the flavor boost!
What to Serve with Chicken Spiedini?
There’s nothing like the enticing aroma of freshly grilled chicken to inspire a full meal that pleases the senses and warms the heart.
- Creamy Potato Salad: A cool, creamy side balances the savory spices of the Chicken Spiedini perfectly, adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Grilled Asparagus: The charred, tender asparagus enhances the flavors of the chicken while offering a burst of freshness to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: Bright and crisp with zesty dressing, this classic salad anchors the meal with its refreshing crunch, perfectly accompanying the main dish.
- Garlic Bread: Golden and crispy, this bread helps soak up the luscious garlic butter sauce, making every bite even more indulgent.
- Roasted Vegetables: A vibrant medley of seasonal veggies elevates the meal with sweet caramelization, adding both color and health benefits.
- Lemon Rice: Fluffy, zesty lemon rice pairs wonderfully, acting as a soft background to the beautifully skewered flavors of Chicken Spiedini.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of dry white wine complements the wine used in the marinade, enhancing the dining experience with its crisp acidity.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich and airy chocolate mousse provides a sweet finish, contrasting beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, this colorful mix of fruits cleanses the palate and offers a sweet contrast to the meal.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Spiedini
Fridge: Keep your Chicken Spiedini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooked Chicken Spiedini in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, drizzling with a bit of olive oil to revive moisture.
Marinated Chicken: If you have leftover marinated chicken that hasn’t been cooked, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 12 hours prior to grilling for flavors to develop.
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Spiedini is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 12 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Simply follow the first two steps of the recipe and place the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can coat the chicken with breadcrumbs and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the skewers as directed, and prepare the garlic butter sauce fresh for an unbelievably delicious finish. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free weeknight dinner with just as much flavor and charm!
Chicken Spiedini Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken breasts for Chicken Spiedini?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts that feel firm and look pink. Avoid any with dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. If you’re in a pinch, thawed frozen chicken works well too.
How should I store leftover Chicken Spiedini?
You can store your Chicken Spiedini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing, as this helps maintain its delicious flavor and moisture.
Can I freeze Chicken Spiedini?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked Chicken Spiedini in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
What should I do if the chicken is dry after cooking?
Very! If your Chicken Spiedini turns out dry, make sure you’re not overcooking it next time—check for doneness at 165°F with a meat thermometer. Additionally, letting it rest for a few minutes after grilling is essential so the juices redistribute, keeping every bite succulent.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Spiedini?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, be cautious with the breadcrumbs, which may contain gluten, or the white wine in the marinade. For gluten-free options, try substituting with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always keep an eye on dietary restrictions when serving!
Can I use different marinades for Chicken Spiedini?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with marinades! You can substitute the dry white wine with chicken broth or apple cider vinegar. Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can elevate the flavor further. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor adventures!
Savor This Chicken Spiedini with Zesty Garlic Butter Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces, then season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their flavor.
- In a medium glass bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dry white wine, and lemon juice. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, cover, and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
- After marinating, use tongs to lift the chicken pieces from the marinade, placing them on a plate. Dredge the chicken in Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is fully coated for that crispy, golden crust.
- Take 4 to 5 pieces of the breadcrumb-coated chicken and slide them onto skewers, making sure they fit snugly without crowding.
- Lightly spray your grill or grill pan with cooking oil and heat it on medium-high. Add the skewers and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn golden brown, then flip them and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until it's fragrant and slightly golden.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gently stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Drizzle this delectable garlic butter sauce over the Chicken Spiedini, serving warm with your favorite side for a complete meal.