Chicken and vegetable skewers

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers on the Grill

Dear friends, after the Easter feast, it's time to return to lighter and healthier dishes. Today, I propose a delicious recipe for chicken and vegetable skewers, perfect for a quick dinner or a lunch outdoors. This recipe was inspired by my daughter, who had a brilliant idea: to use rosemary sticks to add a special flavor to the skewers. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 1 red onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1-2 tomatoes
- Rosemary sticks (about 8-10)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, thyme, paprika (to taste)

Preparing the Skewers

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing and drying the chicken breast. Cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm, so it cooks evenly. Place the chicken cubes in a large bowl.

2. Marinating: Add salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, lemon juice, and olive oil over the chicken breast. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential, as marinating allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the spices and become juicier.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the chicken marinates, clean and wash the vegetables. Cut the red onion into quarters, the bell pepper into large pieces, and the tomatoes in half. These vegetables will not only add flavor to the skewers but will also contribute to a colorful and appetizing appearance.

4. Assembling the skewers: Now it's time to assemble the skewers! Take the rosemary sticks and, if they are very long, you can cut them to the desired size. Start alternating pieces of chicken with vegetables on the rosemary sticks. I encourage you to be creative! You can start with a piece of chicken, followed by a piece of onion, then the bell pepper, and so on. This will not only make the skewers more attractive, but the taste will also be delightful.

5. Grilling: Preheat a non-stick grill over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning them on all sides to brown evenly. It is important not to overcook them, as the chicken can dry out. Check if they are well-cooked; the juice that comes out of the meat should be clear.

6. Serving: Once the skewers are ready, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps redistribute the juices in the meat. Serve the skewers hot, alongside a fresh salad or a side of rice. You can also add a little yogurt sauce or tzatziki salad for a refreshing taste.

Practical Tips

- Choosing ingredients: Always use fresh chicken breast for the best results. You can replace the chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetable varieties: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant, depending on your preferences. Each vegetable adds a different flavor and texture to the skewers.
- Rosemary sticks: If you don't have rosemary sticks, you can use regular wooden skewers, but remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes before use to avoid burning on the grill.

Nutritional Benefits

These chicken and vegetable skewers are not only delicious but also very healthy. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables provide a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, olive oil is rich in healthy fats, which can help maintain heart health. A serving of skewers (about 2-3 skewers) contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the vegetables chosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use pork, lamb, or even fish. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat chosen.

- How can I customize the marinade? You can add herbs like oregano, basil, or even crushed garlic for an extra flavor boost.

- What drinks pair well with these skewers? I recommend a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. A craft beer can also be an excellent choice!

Personal Note

This recipe for chicken and vegetable skewers is ideal not only for a quick dinner but also for an outdoor party. I fondly remember the evenings spent in the garden, when friends and family gathered around the grill, savoring every bite. Each serving of skewers is not just a delicious dish but also a reason to create beautiful memories with loved ones.

I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious recipe for chicken and vegetable skewers on the grill! Bon appétit!