Mediterranean chicken skewers

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers - A Culinary Journey into the Heart of Flavors

If you are a fan of skewers, get ready to discover a recipe that will transform a simple meal into a true feast of flavors! Mediterranean chicken skewers are not only quick and easy to prepare, but they are also incredibly tasty, bringing the flavors of the sun and sea directly to your table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (optional but recommended)
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 pieces of chicken breast (about 500g)
- 1 handful of fresh basil
- 1 bunch of fresh mint
- 1 bunch of fresh sage
- 1/2 teaspoon ground rosemary
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 bell pepper (red or orange)
- Palm or olive oil for greasing the grill

Preparing the skewers:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water, then dry it with a paper towel. Cut it into strips about 2-3 cm wide, enough to be easily handled on the skewers.

2. Marinating the meat: In a blender, add the fresh basil, mint, and sage. Blend until you have a fine paste. Add the olive oil, lime juice, salt, pepper, and ground rosemary. Mix well until it becomes a homogeneous marinade. This flavorful mixture will give the chicken a special taste with fresh and aromatic notes.

3. If you have time, let the chicken marinate: Place the chicken strips in a bowl and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is essential to allow the meat to absorb the delicious flavors.

4. Preparing the skewers: Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to prepare the skewers. Cut the bell pepper into cubes similar in size to the chicken. Alternate on each skewer a piece of chicken with a cube of bell pepper. This will not only add color but also a crunchy texture that will beautifully contrast with the juicy meat.

5. Cooking the skewers: Preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature. Grease the grill with a little palm or olive oil to prevent the skewers from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the chicken is well cooked and has a nicely browned crust. At the end, check if the chicken is cooked through using a meat thermometer - the internal temperature should be 75°C.

6. Serving: Once the skewers are ready, place them on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve them warm, alongside a fresh green salad, a serving of basmati rice, or a crispy baguette to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Practical tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, add a few slices of lemon to the grill next to the skewers.
- If you want a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or marinated tofu cubes.
- You can experiment with different herbs and spices, adapting the recipe to your taste.

Nutritional benefits: Mediterranean chicken skewers are an excellent source of lean protein, and fresh herbs add not only flavor but also antioxidants. Olive oil is known for its cardiovascular benefits, while lime provides a significant amount of vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Turkey is a healthy alternative and can be prepared in the same way.
- How can I check if the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 75°C.
- What drinks pair well with these skewers? We recommend a dry white wine, a refreshing lemonade, or even a citrus-flavored cocktail.

These Mediterranean chicken skewers are not just a meal, but a culinary experience full of flavor and joy. With every bite, you will feel as if you have traveled to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Enjoy your meal!