Chicken skewers

Chicken Skewers – a Delicious and Versatile Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of flavors and delicious textures! Today, I present to you a simple and quick recipe, perfect for summer evenings or any occasion when you want to impress friends and family. Chicken skewers are not only tasty but also very easy to customize according to your preferences. Moreover, they are ideal for grilling but can also be cooked in the oven or on a stovetop. Let’s get started!

Ingredients needed:

- 600 g chicken breast (fillets, skinless)
- 200 g bacon (ideally with a strip of meat)
- 1 large onion (or 2 small, preferably red)
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one green, for color contrast)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for marinating and brushing)
- 4-6 wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning)

Preparing the skewers:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing all the vegetables. Cut the chicken breast into cubes of about 1.5 cm, and the bacon into thin slices. If you prefer, you can use smoked bacon for a richer flavor. Cut the onion into 4 if small or 8 if large, and cut the bell pepper into 1.5 – 2 cm cubes. The cherry tomatoes can remain whole.

2. Assembling the skewers:
Take a skewer and start assembling the ingredients, alternating between onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, bacon, and meat cubes. Repeat the sequence until the skewer is full, leaving a little space between ingredients to allow heat circulation. Finally, place a piece of onion at the tip of the skewer for an attractive look.

3. Seasoning:
Sprinkle salt and pepper on the skewers to taste. If desired, you can add a little olive oil for extra flavor and to prevent the meat from sticking to the grill.

4. Cooking the skewers:
Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 30 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is well cooked and all the ingredients are browned. The flavors combine perfectly, and the bacon will give a special flavor to the meat.

5. Serving:
Serve the skewers hot, directly from the grill, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill for a refreshing contrast. You can also add a side of rice or baked potatoes for a complete lunch.

Useful tips:

- You can replace the chicken breast with pork or beef, and the bacon with pancetta, to change the flavor profile of the skewers.
- Add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even herbs (oregano, basil) to the marinade for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can use fresh pineapple or peaches on your skewers, which caramelize beautifully on the grill.

Nutrition and calories:
Chicken skewers are a healthy choice, rich in protein and low in calories (approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of bacon used). Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables provide a boost of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. 30 minutes before cooking, let them reach room temperature.

- What is the best cooking method?
Grilling is preferred for its flavor, but the skewers can also be cooked in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius or on a stovetop.

- What drinks pair well with the skewers?
A dry white wine or a pale lager are excellent choices to accompany chicken skewers. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, lemonade or iced mint tea are refreshing choices.

I encourage you to try this chicken skewers recipe, customize it to your taste, and enjoy pleasant moments with your loved ones. Cooking is an art form, and skewers are an excellent way to experiment and share the joy of a meal! Enjoy your meal!