Are you craving a taste of Italy without the hassle of a complicated recipe? Then look no further! Carmine's Spiedini Alla Romana, or Roman-style skewers, are the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious weeknight dinner. This recipe delivers authentic Italian flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a satisfying and healthy meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking. Next, chop the bell peppers and red onion into similarly sized pieces. Soaking the skewers prevents them from burning during cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and then sprinkle generously with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the chicken and vegetables onto the soaked wooden skewers. Try to create a visually appealing mix of colors and ingredients on each skewer.
Step 4: Cook the Spiedini
Preheat your grill, broiler, or oven to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If grilling, cook the spiedini for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. If broiling, place the skewers on a baking sheet and broil for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. If using the oven, bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the spiedini from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These delicious skewers are fantastic on their own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping in any leftover marinade.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spiedini Alla Romana:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If grilling or broiling, ensure there's enough space between the skewers to allow for even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Adjust the marinade: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Use different vegetables: Zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant are all great additions to these skewers.
Variations:
- Shrimp Spiedini: Substitute shrimp for chicken for a lighter and quicker meal.
- Vegetarian Spiedini: Omit the chicken and load up on your favorite vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy and healthy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy your delicious homemade Carmine's Spiedini Alla Romana!