Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini: A Skewered Sensation!

Chicken spiedini, those delightful Italian skewers, get a zesty upgrade with this lemon garlic butter rendition! Imagine tender, juicy chicken, marinated in a bright and savory sauce, then grilled or pan-fried to golden perfection. This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or even an elegant appetizer. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this culinary masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavor Explosion:** The lemon garlic butter marinade infuses the chicken with a vibrant, tangy, and savory flavor that is simply irresistible.
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** Serve it as a main course with your favorite sides, as an appetizer for parties, or even as a delicious addition to salads or wraps.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Both kids and adults love the delicious flavor and fun presentation of these chicken skewers.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different herbs, spices, or vegetables to the skewers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and refrigerator.

* **Chicken:** 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.
* **Lemon:** 2 lemons, one for zest and juice, the other for slicing (optional, for grilling).
* **Garlic:** 4-6 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Butter:** 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
* **Fresh Parsley:** 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat).
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
* **Wooden Skewers:** 12-15 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning (if grilling).

Equipment Needed

* **Mixing Bowl:** For marinating the chicken.
* **Whisk:** For combining the marinade ingredients.
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping the chicken and lemon.
* **Knife:** For cutting the chicken and lemon.
* **Grater or Zester:** For zesting the lemon.
* **Garlic Press (optional):** For mincing the garlic.
* **Grill or Skillet:** For cooking the spiedini.
* **Tongs:** For turning the spiedini while cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the mixing bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat the chicken evenly, ensuring each piece is covered in the flavorful mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Step 3: Assemble the Spiedini

Remove the chicken from the refrigerator. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Aim for about 4-5 chicken cubes per skewer.

Step 4: Cook the Spiedini

You have two options for cooking the spiedini: grilling or pan-frying. Choose the method that best suits your preference and available equipment.

**Grilling:**

* Preheat your grill to medium heat.
* Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
* Place the chicken spiedini on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
* If desired, place lemon slices on the grill alongside the spiedini during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor and presentation.

**Pan-Frying:**

* Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Place the chicken spiedini in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
* Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken spiedini are cooked through, remove them from the grill or skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini!

Tips and Variations

* **Use Chicken Thighs:** For a richer and more flavorful spiedini, substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Cut the thighs into 1-inch cubes and marinate as directed.
* **Add Vegetables:** Thread vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers along with the chicken for a more complete and colorful meal.
* **Spice it Up:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier kick.
* **Herb Variations:** Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in the marinade. Fresh herbs are always best, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
* **Honey Garlic Butter:** Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the spiedini during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the skewers just before cooking.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini with a variety of sides, such as rice, couscous, quinoa, roasted vegetables, salads, or crusty bread. They are also delicious in wraps, pitas, or over pasta.

## Serving Suggestions

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire you:

* **Main Course:** Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. A simple salad and some crusty bread complete the meal.
* **Appetizer:** Serve on a platter with a dipping sauce, such as tzatziki, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
* **Salad Topping:** Slice the cooked chicken spiedini and add them to a fresh salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
* **Wrap or Pita Filling:** Fill wraps or pitas with the chicken spiedini, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
* **Pasta Dish:** Toss the cooked chicken spiedini with your favorite pasta and a light sauce for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
* **Rice Bowl:** Serve the spiedini over a bed of rice with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, and sour cream.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 35-40 grams
* Fat: 20-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams

*Please note that nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.*

## Storage Instructions

Leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or skillet until warmed through.

## Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini is a delicious, easy, and versatile recipe that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this skewered sensation! Your family and friends will thank you for it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?**

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. Thawing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight is the safest and best method.

**Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?**

A: While fresh lemon juice is always preferred for its brighter and more vibrant flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for.

**Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while grilling?**

A: To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure to marinate it for at least 30 minutes, but preferably longer. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), but don’t go beyond that.

**Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?**

A: While this recipe is specifically for chicken, you can adapt it to be vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Marinate the tofu or vegetables in the lemon garlic butter marinade and grill or pan-fry as directed.

**Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?**

A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

**Q: What other sauces can I serve with these spiedini?**

A: There are many delicious sauces that pair well with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini. Some popular options include tzatziki sauce, ranch dressing, aioli, honey mustard, or a spicy chili sauce.

**Q: Can I use different types of oil for the marinade?**

A: Yes, you can use different types of oil for the marinade. Olive oil is a great choice for its flavor and health benefits, but you can also use avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil.

**Q: How do I prevent the wooden skewers from burning on the grill?**

A: To prevent the wooden skewers from burning, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This will help them stay moist and prevent them from catching fire on the grill.

**Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?**

A: Yes, you can use different types of cheese instead of Parmesan. Romano cheese or Asiago cheese would be good substitutes. You can also use a sprinkle of feta cheese after the spiedini are cooked.

**Q: Is it necessary to use red pepper flakes in the marinade?**

A: No, the red pepper flakes are optional. If you don’t like spicy food, you can omit them from the marinade altogether. If you enjoy a little heat, you can add more red pepper flakes to taste.