Savory Grilled Chicken Spiedies
Originating from the Italian-American communities in Upstate New York, Chicken Spiedies are delectable skewers of marinated chicken grilled to perfection. These flavorful kebabs are not only a cherished part of local culture but are also an excellent choice for any outdoor gathering or tailgate party. The tangy marinade is infused with aromatic herbs and spices, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. While chicken is the star of the show, you can also experiment with lamb, pork, beef, or even venison for a unique twist. The robust combination of tender meat and fresh vegetables makes these skewers versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or served in a fresh salad. Perfect for sharing with friends, these scrumptious skewers are sure to impress your guests!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
bay leaves
2 (crumbled)
oregano
2 teaspoons
basil
1 teaspoon
tarragon
1/2 teaspoon
rosemary
1/2 teaspoon
garlic cloves
8 small (minced)
lemon juice
1/2 cup
salad oil or fruity olive oil
1/2 cup
red wine vinegar
3/4 cup
pepper
1 teaspoon
salt
3 teaspoons (or to taste)
boneless skinless chicken breasts
3 lbs (cut into cubes)
bell peppers
3 (cut into 1 inch pieces (any color))
onions
2 (cut into 1 inch pieces)
Italian rolls or Italian bread
16 (optional for serving)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into approximately 1.5-inch cubes suitable for skewering.
2
In a nonmetallic dish, combine the marinade ingredients: crumbled bay leaves, oregano, basil, tarragon, rosemary, minced garlic, lemon juice, salad or olive oil, red wine vinegar, pepper, and salt. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3
Add the chicken cubes into the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For optimal flavor, marinate for up to 5 days, checking and stirring daily.
4
Cut the bell peppers and onions into skewer-sized pieces, roughly 1 inch in size.
5
Skewer the marinated chicken and vegetables alternately onto skewers, creating a vibrant array of colors and flavors.
6
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8 to 10 minutes, occasionally brushing with the marinade and turning them every few minutes for even cooking. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) without overcooking.
7
Please do not reuse any remaining marinade on the finished skewers due to the risk of bacteria from the raw chicken.
8
To serve, hold an Italian roll in one hand and slide the skewer out, leaving the delicious filling inside. Enjoy them directly from the skewer or as a tasty addition to a fresh salad. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chicken Spiedies?
Chicken Spiedies are delectable skewers of marinated chicken grilled to perfection, originating from Italian-American communities in Upstate New York.
Where did this recipe originate?
This dish originates from the Italian-American communities located in Upstate New York.
What size should the chicken cubes be?
The chicken breasts should be cut into approximately 1.5-inch cubes suitable for skewering.
What ingredients are in the spiedie marinade?
The marinade consists of crumbled bay leaves, oregano, basil, tarragon, rosemary, minced garlic, lemon juice, salad or olive oil, red wine vinegar, pepper, and salt.
What kind of oil is best for the marinade?
You can use either salad oil or a fruity olive oil for the marinade.
How long should the chicken marinate?
The chicken should marinate for at least 24 hours, but for optimal flavor, it can marinate for up to 5 days.
Should the marinade be stored in a specific type of container?
Yes, the chicken and marinade should be combined in a nonmetallic dish.
How often should the marinating chicken be stirred?
The chicken should be stirred occasionally throughout the marinating process to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
What vegetables are included on the skewers?
Bell peppers of any color and onions are used on the skewers.
What size should the vegetables be cut?
The bell peppers and onions should be cut into roughly 1-inch pieces.
Can I use meats other than chicken?
Yes, you can experiment with lamb, pork, beef, or even venison for a unique twist.
How should the skewers be assembled?
Skewer the marinated chicken and vegetable pieces alternately to create a vibrant array of colors and flavors.
What is the recommended grill temperature?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
How long do the spiedies need to grill?
Grill the skewers for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them every few minutes.
Should I use the marinade while grilling?
Yes, you should occasionally brush the skewers with the marinade during the first few minutes of cooking.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is it safe to reuse the marinade as a sauce after grilling?
No, do not reuse any remaining marinade on the finished skewers due to the risk of bacteria from the raw chicken.
How are spiedies traditionally served?
They are traditionally served by holding an Italian roll and sliding the meat and vegetables off the skewer into the bread.
What type of bread is recommended for serving?
Italian rolls or fresh Italian bread are recommended for serving.
Can I serve spiedies without bread?
Yes, they can be enjoyed directly from the skewer or as a tasty addition to a fresh salad.
How long can leftovers be kept?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
What aromatic herbs are featured in this recipe?
The recipe features bay leaves, oregano, basil, tarragon, and rosemary.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 8 small minced garlic cloves.
How much chicken does this recipe require?
You will need 3 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts.
What are the flavor characteristics of the marinade?
The marinade is tangy and infused with aromatic herbs and spices.
Is this recipe good for large groups?
Yes, these scrumptious skewers are perfect for sharing with friends and are great for outdoor gatherings or tailgate parties.
What acidity is used in the marinade?
The marinade uses both lemon juice and red wine vinegar.
How many bell peppers and onions are used?
The recipe uses 3 bell peppers and 2 onions.
Does the recipe specify a certain color of bell pepper?
No, you can use any color of bell pepper.
How many Italian rolls should I prepare?
The recipe suggests having 16 Italian rolls or pieces of Italian bread ready for serving.