Chicken Spiedini : How to Make This Italian Grilled Delight

Introduction

chicken spiedini is a flavorful Italian dish that will elevate your grilling game. This classic recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated in savory herbs, garlic, and lemon. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a delicious dinner. The dish is easy to prepare and grills beautifully on skewers. In this post, we’ll show you how to make Chicken Spiedini at home, guiding you through the marinade process and grilling techniques. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet elegant Italian delight!

1. What is Chicken Spiedini?

1.1 What Makes Chicken Spiedini Unique?

A Brief History of Spiedini in Italian Cuisine

Spiedini, which means “skewers” in Italian, has deep roots in the country’s culinary traditions. The name comes from the verb spiedare, meaning “to skewer.” This dish has been a part of Italian cooking for centuries, especially in regions like Tuscany and Sicily. Originally, spiedini featured various meats, but chicken spiedini (spiedini di pollo) has become a popular choice. As a result, it offers a lighter alternative to heavier meats like beef or pork.

Moreover, spiedini is tied to the rustic charm of Italian grilling, often done over open flames. Italians have long enjoyed grilling meats, particularly during festivals and family gatherings. This method reflects the Mediterranean love for fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s all about simple preparation that brings out the natural flavors of the food.

Ingredients That Make Chicken Spiedini Stand Out

What makes Chicken Spiedini special lies in its ingredients. Let’s explore the key components that make this dish so delicious:

• Chicken Breast: First and foremost, chicken breast is the star of the dish. It’s boneless, skinless, and easy to skewer. When cut into cubes, it cooks evenly, resulting in tender, juicy bites.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is another essential ingredient. Not only does it tenderize the chicken, but it also adds a rich, fruity flavor. Furthermore, it helps keep the chicken moist during grilling, ensuring the perfect texture.
• Herbs and Seasonings: The dish relies heavily on fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. These herbs add an aromatic depth that enhances the overall flavor. In addition, garlic and lemon zest bring an extra layer of freshness and zest.
• Lemon and Vinegar: Lemon juice and zest are key for adding brightness and acidity. They balance the richness of the olive oil and elevate the flavors. Occasionally, balsamic vinegar is included, providing a subtle tang that complements the grilled chicken.
• Skewers: Skewers play an important role in ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. Additionally, they allow you to add vegetables like peppers, onions, and zucchini, which add flavor and color to the dish.

Ultimately, the beauty of Chicken Spiedini lies in how these simple ingredients come together. Grilling the chicken imparts smoky, savory, and tangy flavors that bring the dish to life. The result is a flavorful, Italian-inspired meal that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking.

1.2 Why Chicken Spiedini is a Crowd-Pleaser

One of the reasons Chicken Spiedini is such a crowd-pleaser is its irresistible combination of flavors. The grilled chicken, paired with Italian herbs and a tangy marinade, creates a dish that satisfies a variety of tastes and preferences. Here’s a closer look at what makes Chicken Spiedini so universally loved:

A Flavorful Marinade that Delights the Senses

At the heart of Chicken Spiedini’s appeal is its marinade. Made with a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, the marinade imparts layers of flavor to the chicken. The olive oil serves as a base, infusing the chicken with a rich, slightly fruity taste. Garlic adds depth, while lemon juice and zest introduce a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness. The addition of Italian herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano lends the dish its signature aroma, filling the air with an irresistible scent as it grills.

Moreover, the marinade doesn’t just add flavor—it also tenderizes the chicken, ensuring each bite remains juicy and moist. This balance of savory, tangy, and herby flavors makes Chicken Spiedini both complex and comforting, striking a chord with nearly everyone who tries it.

Grilled to Perfection for a Smoky, Savory Flavor

Grilling plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavors of Chicken Spiedini. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the chicken’s exterior, creating a slightly crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The smoke from the grill infuses the chicken with a subtle smokiness that complements the marinade’s richness. This smokey flavor, combined with the savory seasoning, creates a well-rounded taste that appeals to meat lovers and those who enjoy a lighter, flavorful option.

Versatility That Fits Any Occasion

Another reason Chicken Spiedini is a hit at any gathering is its versatility. The dish is easy to make in large batches, making it perfect for parties, barbecues, or family meals. The skewered format also makes it convenient for guests to grab and go, which is ideal for outdoor events and casual dining. Furthermore, you can customize the skewers with additional vegetables such as peppers, onions, and zucchini. These veggies not only enhance the flavor profile but also add vibrant colors to the dish, making it visually appealing as well.

Additionally, Chicken Spiedini pairs well with a wide range of sides. Whether you serve it with a fresh Italian salad, grilled vegetables, or even a side of pasta, it complements many different flavors and textures, making it easy to serve as part of a larger meal.

Health-Conscious Yet Flavorful

Chicken Spiedini is also a great option for those who are looking for a healthier yet satisfying meal. Chicken breast is lean, making it a lower-fat alternative to other meats like beef or pork, while still providing plenty of protein. The marinade’s use of olive oil offers healthy fats, which are a key part of the Mediterranean diet. This makes Chicken Spiedini not only a delicious choice but also a nutritious one. It’s a dish that satisfies the cravings for flavor without feeling heavy, which is often appreciated by guests who are looking to enjoy a lighter meal without sacrificing taste.

A Dish That Brings People Together

Finally, Chicken Spiedini’s charm lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether served at a large gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish sparks conversation and creates memorable experiences. The communal nature of sharing skewers and the joy of grilling outdoors evoke feelings of warmth and togetherness. It’s the kind of dish that gets people talking, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company.

2. How to Make Chicken Spiedini at Home

2.1 Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Chicken Spiedini at home, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. These come together to create a marinade that enhances the chicken and gives it a mouthwatering taste. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients, along with some optional items that can elevate the dish further.

Essential Ingredients:

• Chicken Breast: The star of the dish is boneless, skinless chicken breast. It’s lean, easy to cut into cubes, and grills beautifully. Chicken breast absorbs the marinade well, making it juicy and flavorful once grilled. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, though breast meat is the most common choice for spiedini.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is an essential ingredient in the marinade. It helps tenderize the chicken while adding a rich, fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with the herbs and spices. Olive oil also ensures the chicken remains moist while grilling, preventing it from drying out. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
• Garlic: Garlic is a key ingredient in creating depth of flavor. Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant, savory note to the marinade that complements the chicken perfectly. You can adjust the amount of garlic depending on how strong you want the flavor to be. It’s one of those ingredients that infuses the chicken with a punch of taste and aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and brightness to the dish. It’s often used as a garnish but also plays a role in the marinade. Parsley’s mild, fresh flavor balances the richness of the olive oil and garlic, giving the dish a more vibrant, herbal taste.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Lemon is a key component of the marinade. The zest adds a fragrant, citrusy note that infuses the chicken with a refreshing zing. The lemon juice brings a balancing acidity that helps tenderize the chicken while brightening up the overall flavor. The combination of zest and juice provides a tangy, lively contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
• Italian Herbs: A blend of fresh or dried Italian herbs is essential to achieving the classic spiedini flavor. Common herbs used in Chicken Spiedini include oregano, rosemary, and thyme. These herbs add aromatic depth and a Mediterranean flair to the chicken. You can use fresh herbs if available, but dried herbs are perfectly fine and easy to use as well.

Optional Ingredients to Elevate Your Chicken Spiedini:

• Balsamic Vinegar: While not always included in the traditional marinade, balsamic vinegar can be a great addition to the dish. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the olive oil and enhancing the flavor profile. It also provides a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is an optional ingredient that can be sprinkled on the chicken or mixed into the marinade. It adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. If you want a richer, more savory finish, consider adding Parmesan to the skewers just before grilling. Alternatively, you can serve the spiedini with a sprinkle of cheese after cooking.
• Skewers: To make Chicken Spiedini, you’ll need skewers, either wooden or metal. Wooden skewers are a classic choice, but if you use them, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are more durable and reusable. The skewers are essential for holding the chicken (and vegetables, if you include them) while grilling, ensuring even cooking.

Optional Vegetables for Skewering:

While chicken is the main ingredient, adding vegetables to your skewers can enhance the flavor and make the dish more colorful and appealing. Popular choices include:

Onions: Grilled onions become soft and sweet, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. They work particularly well with the smoky notes from the grill.

Bell Peppers: Sweet, crunchy, and slightly smoky when grilled, bell peppers complement the chicken’s flavor perfectly. They also add a pop of color to the dish.

Zucchini: Zucchini becomes tender and slightly caramelized when grilled, providing a subtle sweetness and a nice contrast to the chicken.

2.2 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Chicken Spiedini at home is straightforward and fun. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, flavorful dish ready to impress your guests or enjoy as a weeknight dinner. Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare and cook this Italian grilled delight:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by preparing the marinade, which will infuse your chicken with all the delicious flavors of Italian herbs, garlic, and lemon.

• Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, and your choice of Italian herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano). Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Whisk to Combine: Use a whisk or a spoon to mix the ingredients well until they form a cohesive marinade. The olive oil should blend smoothly with the herbs and citrus to create a rich, fragrant mixture.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Next, you’ll prepare the chicken breast to absorb all the delicious marinade flavors.

• Cut the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. This ensures they cook evenly on the grill.
• Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated with the mixture. You can either stir the chicken gently in the bowl or use your hands (wearing gloves, if desired) to massage the marinade into the chicken.
• Let It Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you have more time, marinating overnight will allow the flavors to intensify and really penetrate the chicken. For best results, don’t skip this step, as the marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

While the chicken marinates, prepare your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, there’s no need to soak them.

• Skewer the Chicken: Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to skewer the pieces. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. If you’d like, you can alternate chicken with vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for added flavor and color.
• Arrange the Skewers: Lay the skewers on a plate or tray, ready to be grilled. Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly spaced so they cook uniformly.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Now, get your grill ready for the perfect sear. Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot enough to sear the chicken and give it a nice char, but not so hot that it burns the outside before the inside cooks through.

• Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil or use a grill spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. This step is crucial to ensure smooth flipping and easy removal of the skewers.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Spiedini

Now it’s time to cook the chicken! Place the skewers on the preheated grill, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This allows the heat to circulate evenly and ensures a good sear on all sides.

• Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken spiedini for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should develop a nice golden-brown crust with grill marks, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
• Optional: Add Vegetables: If you’ve included vegetables on the skewers, make sure they cook through as well. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini may need a few extra minutes depending on their size and thickness.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken spiedini is done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful.

• Serve Immediately: After the resting period, carefully slide the chicken off the skewers and arrange it on a platter. Serve with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even pasta.

Step 7: Optional Garnishes

To finish off your Chicken Spiedini, you can add some optional garnishes to elevate the presentation and flavor:

Drizzle with Balsamic Vinegar: For an added layer of flavor, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.

Sprinkle with Fresh Herbs: A light sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note.

Grate Parmesan Cheese: If you like a richer flavor, you can grate some Parmesan cheese over the grilled chicken just before serving.

3. Tips for Perfect Chicken Spiedini Every Time

3.1 Grilling Tips for Maximum Flavor

Grilling is an art, and when it comes to making Chicken Spiedini, there are a few key tips that will help you achieve maximum flavor and tenderness. By following these expert grilling tips, you’ll be able to enhance the taste, texture, and overall quality of your spiedini. Here’s how you can take your grilling game to the next level:

1. Preheat the Grill Properly

Before you even think about placing the skewers on the grill, it’s essential to preheat your grill. A hot grill ensures that your chicken gets the perfect sear and avoids sticking to the grates.

• Ideal Temperature: For Chicken Spiedini, aim for medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down to a steady, glowing red heat before you start cooking. On a gas grill, simply turn on the burners to medium-high and let it heat up for 10-15 minutes.
• Test the Heat: If you’re unsure of the temperature, you can test the heat by holding your hand over the grill grates. At medium-high heat, you should feel the heat after a couple of seconds but be able to keep your hand there for 2-3 seconds before it gets too hot.

2. Oil the Grill Grates

To prevent your chicken from sticking to the grill, oil the grill grates before cooking. This is especially important when grilling lean meats like chicken breast, which can easily stick if the grates are too dry.

• How to Oil the Grates: Use a pair of tongs to hold a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil or cooking spray, and carefully wipe down the grates. Be cautious of flare-ups, as oil can ignite when it hits the heat.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers

When arranging your chicken spiedini on the skewers, it’s tempting to pack the pieces in tightly, but it’s better to leave some space between them. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent the chicken from searing properly.

• Leave Some Space: Space between the chicken cubes allows the heat to circulate evenly around each piece, which results in a more consistent cook. If you’re adding vegetables to the skewers, make sure to alternate them with the chicken pieces for even cooking and better flavor balance.

4. Maintain Consistent Heat

Maintaining a consistent temperature on the grill is key to cooking chicken evenly without burning it. Fluctuations in heat can cause certain areas to cook too fast, while others remain undercooked.

• Adjust the Heat if Needed: If the chicken starts to char too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Conversely, if the grill is too cool and the chicken isn’t browning, increase the heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you can adjust the heat by moving the coals around or adding more charcoal to boost the temperature.

5. Avoid Constant Flipping

While it’s tempting to flip the chicken every minute, it’s best to let it cook undisturbed on one side for a few minutes. This allows the chicken to form a nice crust, and flipping too often can cause it to dry out.

• Flip Once or Twice: For even grilling, turn the skewers once or twice during the cooking process. You’ll know the chicken is ready to flip when it naturally releases from the grill grates. If you try to flip it too soon, the chicken may stick or tear.

6. Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To ensure your chicken spiedini is perfectly cooked, invest in a meat thermometer. This will take the guesswork out of grilling and help you avoid overcooking or undercooking your chicken.

• Ideal Temperature: Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to check for doneness. Keep in mind that the chicken will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the grill, so it’s okay if it’s just a few degrees under the target temperature when you take it off the heat.

7. Create a Two-Zone Heat for Indirect Cooking

If you’re grilling thicker cuts of chicken or vegetables along with your spiedini, it can be helpful to set up a two-zone heat method on your grill. This method uses one side of the grill for direct heat and the other for indirect heat.

• How to Set Up Two-Zone Heat: On a gas grill, simply turn on one side of the burners and leave the other side off. On a charcoal grill, move the coals to one side. This way, you can sear the chicken over the direct heat and then move it to the cooler side to finish cooking through without burning the outside.

8. Rest the Chicken After Grilling

After you’ve finished grilling your Chicken Spiedini, don’t skip the resting period. Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.

• How to Rest: Remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a clean plate or cutting board. Tent loosely with foil to retain some warmth while the chicken rests.

9. Optional: Add Extra Flavor with Wood Chips or Herbs

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding wood chips or herbs to your grilling setup. Soaked wood chips can create a smoky aroma that will infuse your chicken spiedini, adding depth and richness to the flavor.

Herb Sprigs: For an additional herbal touch, you can place fresh herb sprigs like rosemary or thyme on the grill grates. The herbs will release aromatic oils that subtly flavor the chicken.

How to Use Wood Chips: Soak wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before placing them in a smoker box or wrapping them in aluminum foil with holes poked in it. Place the packet directly on the grill grates, allowing the wood to smolder and release its smoky essence.

3.2 Serving Suggestions

Chicken Spiedini is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and accompaniments, making it perfect for a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or even a special occasion. The vibrant, herbaceous flavors of the grilled chicken work wonderfully with fresh, light dishes as well as rich, comforting sides. Here are some excellent serving ideas to complete your meal and create a well-rounded dining experience:

1. Fresh Green Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad is a great way to balance the savory richness of Chicken Spiedini. The lightness of fresh greens helps cut through the richness of the grilled chicken, while the bright flavors complement the dish perfectly.

• Suggested Salads: Consider a Mediterranean-style salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and red onions. Dress it with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, a simple arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and a lemon vinaigrette works beautifully.
• Add-ons: You can also sprinkle some feta cheese, crumbled goat cheese, or toasted pine nuts on top for extra texture and richness.

2. Grilled Vegetables

If you love grilling, why not extend that to your side dishes? Grilled vegetables are a perfect complement to Chicken Spiedini. They echo the smoky, charred flavors of the chicken and add a hearty, nutritious touch to your meal.

• Suggested Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, and red onions are all fantastic choices. Cut them into large chunks, brush them with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of herbs before grilling them alongside your chicken.
• Tip: For a Mediterranean flair, drizzle the grilled vegetables with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley once they’re off the grill.

3. Pasta Dishes

Pasta is a classic Italian side that pairs wonderfully with chicken spiedini. Whether you opt for a light, fresh pasta dish or a more substantial one, the options are endless. The slight acidity of pasta can complement the richness of the grilled chicken and bring out its flavors.

• Light Pasta Options: A simple spaghetti aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and olive oil), or pasta with a fresh tomato and basil sauce, is a perfect light option. You can also consider a lemon and garlic spaghetti that mimics the citrus notes of the marinade.
• Heavier Pasta: If you’re looking for something heartier, a creamy pasta, such as fettuccine Alfredo or a carbonara, would pair beautifully with the grilled chicken. The rich sauce will provide a comforting contrast to the herb-infused chicken.

4. Roasted Potatoes or Potato Salad

For a more substantial side, roasted potatoes or a classic potato salad make an excellent pairing. Potatoes have a satisfying texture that complements the tender chicken and can easily be seasoned to match the flavors of the spiedini.

• Roasted Potatoes: Roast baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. The crispy edges and soft interior create a perfect contrast with the grilled chicken.
• Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad with mustard, fresh herbs, and a light vinaigrette also complements the spiedini. You could also make a Mediterranean-style potato salad with olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes.

5. Rice or Couscous

Rice and couscous are both great carb-based sides that pair well with grilled chicken. They are light, fluffy, and absorb any juices or sauces you serve with the dish.

• Rice: A lemon-infused rice pilaf with herbs like parsley or dill complements the bright, zesty flavors of Chicken Spiedini. You could also opt for a simple garlic butter rice for a richer pairing.
• Couscous: Couscous is another versatile option. Try serving it with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice, along with chopped herbs such as mint and parsley, for a refreshing side. Couscous also works well with roasted vegetables or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.

6. Flatbreads or Pita

For a more casual and hands-on dining experience, serve your Chicken Spiedini with warm flatbreads or pita bread. These can be used to scoop up pieces of chicken, dip in sauces, or wrap around the meat for a fun, sandwich-like meal.

• Serving Suggestion: Serve the flatbread alongside a garlicky tzatziki sauce, a yogurt-based dip that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and adds a refreshing contrast to the flavors. You can also try serving with a roasted red pepper dip or a spicy harissa sauce for extra kick.

7. Sauces and Dips

A flavorful sauce or dip can take Chicken Spiedini to the next level by adding an extra layer of flavor. There are several options you can serve with this dish, depending on your taste preferences.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt-based dip with cucumbers, garlic, and dill is a classic Mediterranean choice that pairs perfectly with the herbs and spices in Chicken Spiedini.
• Pesto: A fresh basil pesto made with olive oil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan is another great option. It adds a rich, herby note that complements the grilled chicken beautifully.
• Lemon Garlic Aioli: For an extra indulgence, consider a lemony aioli made with mayonnaise, garlic, and a touch of lemon juice. It’s creamy, tangy, and enhances the chicken’s flavor.

8. Wine Pairings

To complete your meal, pair your Chicken Spiedini with a light, refreshing wine. The grilled flavors and aromatic herbs in the chicken work well with white wines and even some reds, depending on your preferences.

Red Wines: If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir or a Chianti will pair well with the chicken spiedini. The subtle tannins and bright acidity in these wines balance the richness of the dish.

White Wines: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the chicken’s citrusy, herby flavors. A dry Rosé also works beautifully, adding a fruity and floral note that enhances the grilled taste.

Conclusion

Chicken Spiedini is a delightful and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. With its tender, herb-infused chicken, bright citrus marinade, and that irresistible smoky char from the grill, it’s no wonder this dish has earned its place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or just craving a flavorful meal, Chicken Spiedini offers a simple yet satisfying experience that will please everyone.

From the carefully selected ingredients and the easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions to the grilling tips and serving suggestions, making Chicken Spiedini at home is an enjoyable process that results in a dish bursting with flavor. The flexibility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, whether you want to add vegetables to the skewers, pair it with a variety of sides, or experiment with different marinades and dips.

By following the grilling tips and serving ideas provided, you can ensure that each bite of Chicken Spiedini is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled. The dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, hearty pasta, or even a light rice dish, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and bring the vibrant flavors of Chicken Spiedini to your next meal. This easy-to-make Italian grilled chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite, impressing your guests with its delicious taste and beautiful presentation. Bon appétit!

FAQs:

1. Where did Chicken Spiedini originate?

Chicken Spiedini is a traditional Italian dish that originates from the region of Southern Italy. The word “spiedini” translates to “skewers” in Italian, referring to the method of cooking small pieces of meat, typically chicken, on a skewer. While it’s popular in Italy, it has also become a favorite in Italian-American cuisine, especially in regions with large Italian communities. This dish is often grilled, giving it a delicious smoky flavor, and is enjoyed for its simplicity and versatility.

2. How to reheat Chicken Spiedini?

Reheating Chicken Spiedini is easy, and there are a few methods you can use to preserve its juicy tenderness and grilled flavor:

• In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken spiedini on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This method helps maintain the chicken’s texture.
• On the Grill: If you want to keep the grilled flavor intact, you can reheat the chicken spiedini on the grill. Place the skewers over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
• In the Microwave: Although not ideal for preserving texture, you can microwave the chicken spiedini by placing it in a microwave-safe dish and covering it loosely with a paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until the chicken is hot.

3. What is Chicken Amaggio?

Chicken Amaggio, also known as Pollo Amaggio, is a dish that is closely related to Chicken Spiedini. It typically involves marinating the chicken in a flavorful mixture of herbs, garlic, olive oil, and lemon before grilling or pan-frying it. While Chicken Amaggio is not as widely known as spiedini, it shares a similar concept of marinated and grilled chicken. Some variations may include a breading or stuffing, making it slightly different in preparation, but the focus on flavorful, tender chicken remains the same.

4. How many calories are in Chicken Spiedini?

The calorie content of Chicken Spiedini can vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used. On average, one skewer of Chicken Spiedini (about 3-4 ounces of chicken) contains approximately 200-250 calories. This count can be higher or lower depending on whether you include additional ingredients like oil, marinade, or cheese. To keep the dish lighter, opt for a simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, and serve it with fresh vegetables or a light side dish. For a more accurate calorie count, it’s best to calculate based on the specific ingredients you use.