Exotic skewers

Exotic Skewers with Chicken Breast and Dried Apricots

If you're looking for a recipe for exotic skewers that will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of sunshine to your table, you've come to the right place! These skewers with chicken breast, dried apricots, and red onion are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Plus, you can pair them with various sides, turning every meal into a memorable culinary experience.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 12 hours (ideal for a more intense flavor)
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 12-13 hours (including marinating time)
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 100 ml coconut milk (for a creamy and exotic flavor)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for an umami taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to help with browning)
- 1 tablespoon Chinese spices (an aromatic blend that will elevate the dish)
- 200 g dried apricots (sweet and juicy, perfectly balanced with the meat)
- 1 red onion (for a contrast of textures and flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Marinade:
In a large bowl, cut the chicken breast into cubes about 2-3 cm. This will allow them to marinate evenly and cook more easily on the skewers. Add the coconut milk, soy sauce, olive oil, and Chinese spices. Mix well to coat all the chicken pieces. This mixture will add a deep flavor and a silky texture to the meat.

2. Marinating:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 12 hours. This is the essential step, as it allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you have time, you can let the meat marinate for up to 24 hours for an even more intense flavor.

3. Preparing the Skewers:
Once the chicken has marinated, start preparing the skewers. Cut the red onion into large pieces, about 3 cm, to have a pleasant texture after cooking. Begin alternating the marinated chicken cubes, dried apricots, and pieces of red onion on the skewers. I suggest starting with a piece of meat, followed by an apricot and a piece of onion, repeating until all ingredients are used.

4. Cooking the Skewers:
Preheat the grill to medium heat. You can use an electric grill, a grill pan, or a charcoal grill, depending on your preference. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning. The meat should be fully cooked, and the onion pieces should become slightly caramelized.

5. Serving:
Once the skewers are ready, serve them hot alongside a side of wild rice, which will add a touch of nutrition and a pleasant texture. You can drizzle everything with a little soy sauce or a drop of olive oil if you desire an extra note of flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These skewers pair excellently with a fresh vegetable salad or a mango salsa. If you want to explore other flavors, you can also add bell peppers or pineapple to the skewers. Additionally, you can replace the chicken breast with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, necessary for muscle recovery. Coconut milk adds healthy fats, while dried apricots are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a healthy diet. A serving of skewers contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the chosen sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe works great with pork, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How can I tell if the chicken is cooked?
To check, cut a piece of meat; if the juices run clear and the meat is not pink, it is done.

What sides pair well?
Besides wild rice, you can also opt for quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Personal Story

When I discovered this recipe, I was immediately drawn to the unusual combination of ingredients. On my first attempt, I invited friends over for a relaxing dinner, and it was a total success! The aroma of the caramelized meat combined with the sweetness of the apricots was a revelation. Every time I prepare these skewers, I remember that evening filled with laughter and stories.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for exotic skewers too! Feel free to put your personal touch by adding your favorite ingredients or experimenting with various sides. Bon appétit!