Balsamic Chicken Skewers Recipe – American Special
Balsamic Chicken Skewers are a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the rich tang of balsamic vinegar with tender, grilled chicken for a deliciously savory bite. Marinated in a sweet and tangy balsamic dressing with garlic and herbs, these skewers are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights, weekend BBQs, or casual gatherings. The grilling process adds a smoky char, while the marinade infuses the chicken with deep, savory flavor, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Serve with fresh veggies, a side salad, or a light grain like couscous for a healthy and satisfying meal!
- Prep Time30 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time40 min
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- For the Balsamic Marinade:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the cubed chicken breast in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to let the chicken absorb the flavors.
Prepare the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced out (about 4-5 pieces per skewer).
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Grill the Skewers:
Brush the grill with a little oil to prevent sticking.
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the grill marks are nice and charred.
Optionally, during the last minute of cooking, brush the skewers with a little extra marinade for more flavor.
Serve:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil or other fresh herbs if desired.
Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
Recipe Notes :
Marinate Time:Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) for the best flavor.
Chicken Choice:Use chicken breasts for leaner skewers, or chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful pieces.
Grill Tips:Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, and soak wooden skewers for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning.
Vegetables:Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for added flavor and color.
Make Ahead:Prepare the skewers and marinate overnight for extra convenience and flavor.
