Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, fun, and easy to make? Look no further! These Chicken on a Sticks are a fantastic solution for a quick weeknight meal or a fun appetizer for your next gathering. They're incredibly versatile, healthy, and bursting with flavor – the perfect example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12-15 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to ensure they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor absorption. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken is well marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the prepared skewers. You can arrange them in any pattern you like – simple alternating cubes or more creative designs.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your grill, broiler, or oven to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C).
- Grilling: Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred.
- Broiling: Place the skewers on a broiler pan and broil for 4-5 minutes per side, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Baking: Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
A food thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safely cooked.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These Chicken on a Sticks are fantastic on their own or served with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. They're also great for meal prepping – simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken on a Stick:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When grilling or broiling, ensure there's enough space between the skewers to allow for even cooking.
- Use metal skewers: If you prefer, metal skewers eliminate the need for pre-soaking.
- Adjust the marinade: Feel free to customize the marinade to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or substitute teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Vegetable skewers: Add bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
- Honey-Garlic Glaze: For an extra layer of flavor, brush the skewers with a honey-garlic glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe for Chicken on a Stick provides a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, blending ease, flavor, and nutrition into one delicious package. Enjoy!