Chicken Spiedini, an Italian-American favorite, is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken skewered and grilled or baked to perfection. The dish originated from the traditional Italian “spiedini,” which refers to meat cooked on a skewer. This Chicken Spiedini recipe is juicy, tender, and infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or serving a crowd at gatherings. Paired with your favorite pasta or salad, it brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether you’re using chicken breast or thigh, this dish can easily be adapted with your favorite seasonings or sides.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Chicken: Chicken breasts are ideal for this dish, but chicken thighs work well too for more juiciness.
- Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Panko can be substituted for a crunchier texture.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can be swapped with dried ones if necessary.
- Lemon: Adds a fresh, zesty touch. Substitute with lime if needed.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add cubed chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will infuse the chicken spiedini with rich flavors and make it juicy.
- Skewer the chicken:
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Be sure to evenly distribute the chicken for consistent cooking. You can alternate with veggies like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and color.
- Prepare the breading mixture:
- Combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a shallow bowl. Coat each chicken skewer in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Preheat the grill or oven:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, or set your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Lightly oil the grates or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Grill or bake the skewers:
- Place the skewers on the grill, turning occasionally, or bake in the oven. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve with a drizzle of sauce:
- For a final touch, drizzle the chicken spiedini with lemon juice or a light marinara sauce for extra flavor. Pair it with a side of pasta, rice, or fresh salad.
Pro Tips
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Ensure chicken pieces are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Marinate the chicken longer for more intense flavor—overnight if possible!
Chicken Spiedini Recipe
Description
Chicken Spiedini is a delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring marinated, skewered chicken coated in breadcrumbs and grilled or baked to perfection. Perfect for any meal
Ingredients
Instructions
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
