Chicken Spiedini

Chicken Spiedini is a beloved Italian inspired dish that brings together juicy, marinated chicken, crispy breading, and the tangy brightness of lemon butter sauce. These skewers are easy to prepare, making them perfect for a casual family dinner or a backyard cookout. The flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs make every bite irresistibly delicious!

What makes this dish even better? It’s versatile! Whether you grill, bake, or air fry it, you’ll get a perfectly crisp, juicy result every time. Serve it with a side of pasta, fresh salad, or even some roasted veggies for a complete meal. Try it once, and it’ll be a new favorite in your kitchen!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Marinade and Chicken:

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup white wine (or chicken stock)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

• Olive oil, for grilling

For the Breading:

• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup freshly grated Pecorino cheese

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• ⅓ cup olive oil

• 5 tablespoons butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup white wine

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, wine, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 20-30 minutes. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water during this time.

2. Prepare the breading: In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, lemon zest, Parmesan, and Pecorino cheese.

3. Coat the chicken: Once marinated, toss the chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

4. Assemble the skewers: Thread several pieces of breaded chicken onto each skewer.

5. Grill the skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the grate with olive oil. Grill the skewers for 5 minutes per side, flipping once, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

6. Prepare the sauce: While the chicken is grilling, heat olive oil and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in white wine, cook for 1-2 minutes, then stir in lemon zest and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Serve: Drizzle the chicken spiedini with the lemon butter sauce and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 590 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Chicken Spiedini: A Flavorful Italian-Inspired Dish

Introduction

Chicken Spiedini is an Italian American classic that has won over the hearts (and taste buds) of many. This dish features tender chicken pieces, marinated to perfection, coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, and grilled or baked until golden and juicy. What makes it truly special is the signature lemon butter sauce that enhances the dish with its tangy, garlicky goodness.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a dish to impress guests, or a flavorful addition to your barbecue menu, Chicken Spiedini is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized in various ways to suit your preferences.

In this article, we’ll dive into the history of Chicken Spiedini, its origins, different cooking methods, variations, serving suggestions, and why it has become such a popular dish.

The Origins of Chicken Spiedini

The term “Spiedini” comes from the Italian word “spiedo,” which means skewer or spit. In traditional Italian cuisine, Spiedini refers to a variety of skewered meats, often grilled over an open flame. While the original versions in Italy primarily featured lamb, beef, or pork, Italian immigrants in the United States adapted the dish using chicken, which was more readily available and suited American palates.

Chicken Spiedini, as we know it today, was popularized in the Midwest, particularly in Kansas City, where it became a beloved restaurant dish. It is often associated with Jasper’s Restaurant, a well known Italian eatery that introduced this dish to a wider audience. Since then, Chicken Spiedini has become a staple in Italian American households and restaurants across the country.

Why Chicken Spiedini is So Popular

1. Bursting with Flavor

Chicken Spiedini is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, white wine, garlic, and seasonings, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat. The breadcrumb coating adds texture and a savory kick, while the lemon butter sauce provides the perfect balance of richness and acidity.

2. Easy to Make

Unlike many Italian dishes that require long hours of preparation, Chicken Spiedini is relatively quick and simple to prepare. The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process whether grilling, baking, or air frying is straightforward.

3. Versatile Cooking Methods

Chicken Spiedini can be grilled, baked, air fried, or even pan-fried, making it adaptable for different kitchen setups and preferences. No matter which method you choose, the result is always tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

From casual family dinners to holiday feasts or summer barbecues, Chicken Spiedini fits any setting. Its elegant presentation and bold flavors make it an excellent dish for entertaining guests.

5. Great for Meal Prep

If you love prepping meals in advance, Chicken Spiedini is a great option. You can marinate the chicken overnight, making it even more flavorful and allowing you to cook it quickly when ready. Leftovers also reheat well, making them perfect for meal planning.

Different Ways to Cook Chicken Spiedini

1. Grilled Chicken Spiedini (Most Traditional)

Grilling is the most authentic and flavorful way to cook Chicken Spiedini. The high heat caramelizes the breadcrumbs, giving the skewers a crispy, smoky exterior while keeping the inside moist and juicy.

Pro Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

2. Baked Chicken Spiedini

Baking is a convenient and foolproof way to prepare Chicken Spiedini. Simply place the skewers on a baking sheet and cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. This method ensures even cooking without the need for flipping or monitoring a grill.

3. Air-Fried Chicken Spiedini

For a healthier alternative, try air frying! The air fryer crisps up the breadcrumbs beautifully while using minimal oil. Cook the skewers at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

4. Pan-Seared Chicken Spiedini

If you don’t have a grill or air fryer, a cast-iron skillet or non stick pan works great too! Sear the skewers over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, then finish in the oven if needed.

Variations of Chicken Spiedini

One of the best things about Chicken Spiedini is how customizable it is. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Spicy Chicken Spiedini

For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the marinade. You can also drizzle with spicy honey or chili oil before serving.

2. Cheesy Chicken Spiedini

Mix shredded mozzarella, fontina, or provolone into the breadcrumb coating for a melty, cheesy twist.

3. Mediterranean Chicken Spiedini

Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding oregano, sun dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese into the mix. Serve with tzatziki sauce instead of lemon butter.

4. Herb-Crusted Chicken Spiedini

Use a combination of fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme in the breadcrumb mixture for a more herbaceous flavor.

5. Low-Carb or Keto Chicken Spiedini

Swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Spiedini pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• Pasta: Serve over angel hair pasta or fettuccine with extra lemon butter sauce.

• Salad: A fresh arugula or Caprese salad complements the dish perfectly.

• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts work great.

• Rice or Risotto: A side of garlic parmesan rice or creamy risotto adds an elegant touch.

• Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Spiedini is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors, making it a must-try for any home cook. Whether grilled, baked, or air fried, it delivers juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy, flavorful crust. The lemon butter sauce takes it to the next level, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

With its versatility, ease of preparation, and restaurant-quality taste, Chicken Spiedini is the perfect addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and discover why so many people love this Italian inspired favorite!