Flame-Kissed Chicken Skewers

Prepare to delight your taste buds with the **easiest Chicken Spiedini** recipe, a true celebration of vibrant Italian flavors. These exquisite Italian chicken skewers are crafted from incredibly tender and juicy chicken pieces, bathed in a simple yet powerfully aromatic marinade. Grilled to absolute perfection, they offer an unforgettable taste experience that is both incredibly satisfying and wonderfully healthy. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short, or whenever you crave a fuss-free yet utterly delicious meal, these chicken skewers are a culinary triumph.

What Exactly is Chicken Spiedini? Understanding the Italian Delight

The term “Spiedino” in Italian directly translates to **meat skewer**, with “spiedini” being its plural form. Thus, “Chicken Spiedini” is a charming blend of Italian and English, essentially meaning **chicken skewers**. While some variations of this dish, particularly in the US, might feature breaded chicken often served with various dipping sauces, our traditional approach to Italian chicken skewers focuses on purity of flavor.

True to authentic Italian grilling, this recipe champions succulent, grilled chicken, enhanced by nothing more than a few essential herbs and a touch of lemon. You won’t find any breadcrumbs here, making these skewers not only significantly lighter and healthier but also remarkably simpler and quicker to prepare. This focus on natural ingredients allows the inherent deliciousness of the chicken and the fresh herb marinade to truly shine through.

I wholeheartedly adore this recipe, especially when paired with a vibrant assortment of grilled vegetables and a refreshing side of arugula. Its versatility means you can enjoy these skewers year-round – fire up your outdoor grill when the sun is beaming, or opt for the convenience of your indoor broiler (or grill pan) during any season.

Why This Chicken Spiedini Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

This particular Chicken Spiedini recipe stands out for its unparalleled ease, incredible flavor, and healthful qualities, making it an ideal choice for any home cook. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire:

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, these skewers are perfect for busy schedules. The simple marinade comes together in minutes.
• Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of fresh rosemary, dried oregano, and bright lemon zest infuses the chicken with an authentic Italian taste that is both robust and refreshing.
• Tender & Juicy Texture: Properly marinated and quickly grilled, the chicken remains incredibly tender and bursting with juices, avoiding any dryness.
• Healthy & Light: By skipping the breadcrumbs, this recipe offers a lighter, low-carb alternative without compromising on flavor, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the smoky char of an outdoor grill or the quick convenience of an indoor broiler or grill pan, these skewers cook beautifully using multiple methods.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From a casual family dinner to a festive backyard BBQ, Chicken Spiedini is always a crowd-pleaser that looks as impressive as it tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The chicken can be marinated in advance, making weeknight cooking even faster. Leftovers are also delicious and easy to reheat.

Crafting the Perfect Marinade: Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

The secret to truly sensational Chicken Spiedini lies in its deceptively simple yet incredibly effective marinade. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with an irresistible Italian essence:

• Chicken Breasts: We opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures quick and even cooking, resulting in perfectly tender bites. You could also use chicken thighs for an even juicier result, though cooking times might vary slightly.
• Fresh Rosemary: Finely chopped fresh rosemary contributes a fragrant, slightly piney, and earthy note that is quintessential to Italian cuisine. Its robust flavor pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Dried Oregano: This classic Italian herb brings a warm, aromatic, and slightly bitter undertone that complements the rosemary and lemon, adding depth to the marinade.
• Lemon Zest: The bright, citrusy oils from the lemon zest are paramount. They cut through the richness of the olive oil and herbs, adding a vibrant freshness that truly elevates the dish. Don’t skip this for maximum flavor!
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential. It acts as the carrier for all the flavors, helps to tenderize the chicken, and prevents it from sticking to the grill.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors and ensuring the chicken is perfectly seasoned throughout. Always season generously to taste.

This combination creates a marinade that penetrates the chicken quickly, delivering a burst of authentic Mediterranean flavor in every bite.

Essential Prepping for Perfect Skewers

Proper preparation is key to ensuring your Chicken Spiedini turns out perfectly. One critical step, especially if you’re using wooden skewers, is pre-soaking them.

If you’re opting for **wooden skewers**, it’s absolutely essential to **soak them in water for at least 30 minutes** before you start cooking. Failure to do so will result in the skewers charring and burning on the grill, which is not only frustrating but can also affect the taste of your delicious chicken. The water absorption prevents them from igniting or scorching under high heat.

Of course, if you’re using **metal skewers**, you can conveniently skip this soaking step and proceed directly to marinading your chicken, saving you a bit of time.

For ultimate convenience, you can easily prep this dish in advance. Marinate the chicken and thread it onto your skewers, then store them covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and means you’ll have a meal ready to go the moment you’re ready to cook, making it perfect for efficient meal planning.

How to Make Chicken Spiedini – Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to create your own mouth-watering Chicken Spiedini:

If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in a tray of water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. (Refer to photo 1 for visual guidance).

Begin by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubed pieces. This even sizing is crucial for consistent cooking. Place the cubed chicken into a large mixing bowl.

Next, add all the marinade ingredients: the finely chopped fresh rosemary, dried oregano, vibrant lemon zest, and olive oil. Season generously with a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly until every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the aromatic marinade. (Refer to photos 2-3 for visual guidance on chicken preparation and marinating). You can use the chicken immediately for a quick meal, or for deeper flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the chicken to marinate.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your broiler (or grill) to high. Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your prepared wooden or metal skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Place the threaded skewers on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. (Refer to photo 5 for guidance on threading).

Place the baking tray with the chicken skewers on a high shelf directly under the hot broiler. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the first side to brown beautifully. Then, carefully turn the skewers over and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, cooked through, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). (Refer to photo 6 for guidance on broiling).

Once cooked, transfer the hot chicken skewers to a serving plate. Finish them with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice, which brightens the flavors even further. Serve immediately with your chosen sides.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

These Italian chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. I particularly enjoy serving them alongside fresh **grilled vegetables** such as zucchini, eggplant (also known as courgette or aubergine), or vibrant bell peppers. A generous handful of fresh **arugula** (rocket), drizzled with a little olive oil and lemon juice, and lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, creates a perfect healthy and nutritious accompaniment that adds a peppery bite.

Here are a few other fantastic ideas that would complement your Chicken Spiedini beautifully:

• Italian Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic: Crispy, aromatic potatoes are a hearty and flavorful choice.
• Italian Farro Salad: A light and wholesome grain salad with fresh herbs and vegetables.
• Creamy White Bean Mash with Rosemary and Lemon: A comforting and savory alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Classic Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing contrast.
• Easy Green Bean Salad with Mustard and Garlic Dressing: A bright and tangy green bean salad adds a lovely crunch.
• Simple Pasta Salad: Toss cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, olives, feta, and a light vinaigrette.
• Quinoa or Couscous: A quick and healthy base, especially when mixed with chopped herbs and lemon.

Flavor Variations to Inspire Your Creativity

Feel free to experiment with the marinade to customize your Chicken Spiedini:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle warmth, or a finely minced fresh chili for more heat.
• Garlic Lover’s Dream: Include 1-2 cloves of minced garlic in the marinade for an extra layer of savory depth.
• Herb Variations: Swap out or add other fresh herbs like thyme, marjoram, or finely chopped parsley for a different aromatic profile.
• Smoky Undertones: A dash of smoked paprika can lend a beautiful color and a hint of smoky flavor, especially if you’re cooking indoors.
• Sweet & Tangy: A teaspoon of balsamic glaze or a touch of honey can add a pleasant sweet and tangy note to the marinade.

Adding Vegetables to Your Skewers

For a complete meal all on one stick, consider adding vegetables directly to your skewers alongside the chicken. Bell peppers (various colors), red onion wedges, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini chunks work wonderfully. Ensure the vegetables are cut into pieces roughly the same size as the chicken for even cooking. Just make sure not to overcrowd the skewers to allow for proper cooking and browning.

Mastering the Grill: Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Spiedini

Whether you’re using an indoor broiler, a grill pan, or an outdoor barbecue, a few key tips will ensure your chicken spiedini is cooked to perfection every time.

Indoor Broiling (Grilling)

• High Heat is Key: Ensure your broiler is fully preheated to high. This intense heat is what creates that desirable browned exterior and keeps the inside juicy.
• Rack Position: Place your baking tray on a high shelf, close enough to the heating element to get good browning without burning. Typically, 4-6 inches from the heat source is ideal.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give your skewers some space on the tray. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of grilling it, preventing proper browning.
• Monitor Closely: Broilers cook very quickly. Keep a close eye on the chicken and turn the skewers promptly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Check for Doneness: The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The best way to confirm doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer; chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Outdoor Grilling (BBQ)

• Clean and Oiled Grates: Always start with clean grill grates to prevent sticking. Lightly oil them before placing the skewers.
• Direct Heat: For quick-cooking items like chicken skewers, direct heat is usually best. Aim for medium-high heat.
• Cooking Time: On an outdoor grill, the skewers will need approximately 3-4 minutes per side, turning frequently, until all sides are nicely browned and the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
• Achieve Grill Marks: For those beautiful char marks, avoid moving the skewers too much. Let them cook for a few minutes per side before turning.
• Prevent Flare-ups: If you’re using chicken thighs (which have more fat) or if oil drips, you might get flare-ups. Move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill momentarily if this happens.

Meal Prep & Storage: Enjoying Spiedini Beyond Dinner

This Chicken Spiedini recipe is wonderfully adaptable for meal prepping and has excellent storage capabilities, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness over several days.

Marinating in Advance

• Optimal Flavor: You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for a deeper infusion of flavor, I recommend marinating for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
• Overnight Prep: For maximum convenience, you can marinate the chicken overnight (up to 12-18 hours). Any longer than this, especially with lemon zest, can start to break down the chicken’s texture too much.
• Ready to Skewer: Once marinated, you can even thread the chicken onto skewers and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling, making your cook time almost zero!

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Cooked Chicken Spiedini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  • Broiler/Grill: For a quick reheat and to regain some crispness, place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can sometimes dry out chicken. If using, heat in short bursts until just warm to avoid overcooking.
• Enjoy Cold: Leftover chicken spiedini is also delicious cold, sliced into salads or served in wraps.

Freezing Options

• Uncooked, Marinated Chicken: You can freeze the marinated, unskewered chicken in an airtight freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before threading onto skewers and cooking as directed.
• Cooked Skewers: Cooked chicken spiedini can also be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat using one of the methods above.

More Delicious Italian Recipes You Might Like

• Pistachio Crusted Chicken with Arugula Salad
• Involtini alla Palermitana (Sicilian Beef Involtini)
• Eggplant Parmigiana (Parmigiana di Melanzane)
• Stuffed Pork Tenderloin with Prosciutto & Pistachios
• Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Garlic and Pancetta

If you’ve tried this **Chicken Spiedini Recipe** or any other recipe on the blog, please let me know how you got on in the comments below – I love hearing from you! You can also **Follow me** on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST to see more delicious food and what I’m getting up to.

Step By Step Photos Above

Most of our recipes come with step by step photos, helpful tips and tricks to make it perfectly first time and even video!

Chicken Spiedini – Italian Chicken Skewers

★
5 from 6 votes

By Emily

Prep:
10 minutes mins

Cook:
10 minutes mins

Total:
20 minutes mins

Servings:
4 servings

Pin

The easiest Chicken Spiedini made with tender and juicy chicken and a simple flavour packed marinade. These Italian chicken skewers are grilled to perfection and taste incredible, so easy and healthy they’re perfect for whipping up when you’re short on time or want a fuss-free dinner!

Equipment

• 4 wooden skewers (or metal skewers)
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking tray
• Broiler (or outdoor grill/grill pan)

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• Zest of 1 whole lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin recommended
• Salt and pepper, to season generously
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, for serving

Instructions

• If using wooden skewers, immerse them in a tray of water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking. Skip this step if using metal skewers.
• Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubed pieces. Place the chicken cubes into a large mixing bowl.
• Add the finely chopped fresh rosemary, dried oregano, lemon zest, olive oil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the bowl with the chicken. Stir vigorously until all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated with the aromatic marinade. You can proceed to cook immediately, or for enhanced flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
• Preheat your broiler (or grill) to a high setting. Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto your prepared skewers (wooden or metal). Place the threaded skewers onto a baking tray.
• Position the baking tray on a high shelf under the broiler. Cook for 5 minutes until the chicken starts to brown. Carefully turn the skewers over and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, completely cooked through, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the chicken skewers from the broiler. Serve them immediately on a plate with a refreshing squeeze of fresh lemon juice and your favorite grilled vegetables or other suggested sides.

Video

Notes

• Cutting the chicken: Ensure you cut the chicken into even, 1-inch pieces. This uniformity is crucial for consistent cooking, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are dry.
• Variations: This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to play around with different herbs and spices in the marinade. Consider adding minced garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or even a touch of smoked paprika for a different depth of flavor.
• Outdoor grilling: If you’re lucky enough to be grilling outdoors during the warmer months, these skewers are fantastic on a BBQ. The direct heat and smoky flavor from charcoal or gas grills will add another dimension of deliciousness. On a BBQ, they will typically need around 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the heat of your grill, until cooked through.
• Leftovers: Any leftover cooked Chicken Spiedini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or under the broiler until piping hot throughout. Alternatively, they are also delicious enjoyed cold, perhaps sliced over a fresh salad.
• Freezing: These skewers are also freezer-friendly. You can freeze the chicken either before cooking (after marinating, unskewered) or after they’ve been cooked and cooled. Make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

Helpful Info for All Recipes

• I always use extra virgin olive oil in all of my recipes unless stated otherwise. Its robust flavor and quality are unmatched.
• When I use canned or jarred tomatoes of any kind, I always recommend Cirio or Mutti brands for the best results and flavor. Their consistent quality makes a real difference.
• All vegetables are assumed to be medium-sized unless specifically stated otherwise in the ingredient list.
• All recipes on this site are tested and developed using a fan (convection) oven, which often cooks food more evenly and sometimes faster than conventional ovens.
• Find out more about how nutrition is calculated and why it should be used as an approximation.
• Check out our must-have Italian Pantry Staples to stock your kitchen for authentic Italian cooking.
• You can also find all our Essential Kitchen Tools for Italian Cooking to ensure you have everything you need for success.

Nutrition

Calories: 325kcal |
Carbohydrates: 1g |
Protein: 48g |
Fat: 13g |
Saturated Fat: 2g |
Cholesterol: 145mg |
Sodium: 844mg |
Potassium: 852mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 118IU |
Vitamin C: 5mg |
Calcium: 34mg |
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. It can vary based on specific brands and exact measurements of ingredients used.