Chicken Spiedini – A Flavorful Italian-American Dish

Chicken Spiedini is a beloved Italian-American dish that showcases skewered and grilled or baked marinated chicken. The word « spiedini » comes from the Italian word spiedo, meaning « spit » or « skewer, » reflecting the dish’s traditional preparation method. While its origins can be traced back to Italy, where various meats and seafood are cooked on skewers, Chicken Spiedini became particularly popular in Italian-American communities, especially in the Midwest, with Kansas City being a notable hotspot for this dish.

Traditionally, the chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian herbs, then breaded and grilled to perfection. Variations may include a light breadcrumb coating or a drizzle of amogio sauce, a tangy garlic-lemon butter sauce that enhances its rich flavor. Today, Chicken Spiedini is a favorite at Italian restaurants and home kitchens alike, celebrated for its juicy, aromatic, and slightly crispy texture.

What is Chicken Spiedini?

Origin of the Dish

Chicken Spiedini is an Italian-American dish with roots in Italy’s long-standing tradition of skewered meats, known as spiedini. The term comes from the Italian word spiedo, meaning “spit” or “skewer,” a cooking method commonly used for meats like lamb, beef, and seafood. When Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, Chicken Spiedini emerged as a unique variation, particularly in the Midwest.

Kansas City is often credited with popularizing Chicken Spiedini, thanks in part to chef Jasper Mirabile Sr., who introduced the dish at his restaurant, Jasper’s, in the 1980s. His version—marinated, breaded, and grilled chicken skewers—quickly became a regional favorite and helped establish Spiedini as a signature Italian-American dish.

Traditional vs. Modern Variations

Traditionally, Chicken Spiedini consists of marinated chicken pieces skewered and coated in seasoned breadcrumbs before being grilled or baked. A classic marinade includes olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian herbs, enhancing the dish’s bold and zesty flavors. It is often served with amogio sauce—a tangy garlic-lemon butter sauce that complements the crispy, golden-brown breading.

Modern variations have introduced creative adaptations to the dish. Some versions stuff the chicken with cheese or wrap it in bacon for added richness. Others substitute the traditional breadcrumb coating with panko for extra crunch. While grilling remains the most authentic cooking method, some people opt for air frying or baking for a healthier alternative. Additionally, Chicken Spiedini is sometimes served over pasta, salads, or even in sandwiches, making it a versatile dish that continues to evolve while staying true to its Italian-inspired roots.

Key Ingredients of Chicken Spiedini

Chicken Selection (Breast vs. Thigh)

The choice of chicken is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in Chicken Spiedini. Traditionally, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used because they provide a lean, firm texture that holds up well on skewers. However, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative, offering more juiciness and richer flavor due to their higher fat content. While chicken breasts give a cleaner, milder taste, thighs stay moist even after grilling or baking, making them a great choice for those who prefer a more succulent bite.

Marinade Essentials (Olive Oil, Garlic, Lemon Juice)

A flavorful marinade is key to infusing the chicken with moisture and depth. The classic marinade for Chicken Spiedini includes:

• Olive oil – Acts as the base, ensuring the chicken remains tender and doesn’t dry out during cooking.
• Garlic – Adds a robust, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Lemon juice – Provides acidity, which helps tenderize the chicken and balances the richness of the oil and garlic.

Other common additions include Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and parsley), red pepper flakes for a slight kick, and white wine for extra depth of flavor. Marinating the chicken for at least an hour (or overnight for a more intense taste) helps achieve the best results.

Breadcrumbs and Seasoning Options

After marinating, the chicken is traditionally coated in seasoned Italian breadcrumbs, which create a crispy, golden crust when grilled or baked. Some variations use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. To elevate the flavor, the breadcrumbs are often mixed with:

• Grated Parmesan cheese for a savory, nutty taste.
• Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for seasoning.
• Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano to enhance the Italian-inspired profile.

For a lighter version, some recipes skip the breadcrumb coating altogether, allowing the marinated chicken to develop a natural char on the grill.

Skewers: Wooden vs. Metal

The type of skewer used can impact both the cooking process and presentation:

• Wooden skewers (typically bamboo) are affordable and disposable but must be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
• Metal skewers are reusable, conduct heat more efficiently for even cooking, and don’t require soaking. However, they can get extremely hot, so handling them with care is essential.

Both options work well, but metal skewers are preferred for frequent grilling, while wooden skewers are convenient for casual cooking.

By carefully selecting these key ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic Chicken Spiedini that balances tradition with personal preference.

How to Make Chicken Spiedini at Home

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken – Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces (about 1 to 1.5 inches).
2. Make the Marinade – In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). You can also add a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
3. Marinate the Chicken – Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor).
4. Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating – In a shallow dish, combine Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko), grated Parmesan cheese, and extra herbs or spices of choice.
5. Coat the Chicken – Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and roll each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
6. Skewer the Chicken – Thread the coated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
7. Cook the Chicken – Choose your preferred cooking method:
   • Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
   • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Air Frying: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
8. Serve and Enjoy – Drizzle with amogio sauce (a lemon-garlic butter sauce) or serve alongside a fresh salad, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Marination

• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more natural citrus flavor.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is ideal for deeper flavor absorption.
• For extra tenderness, add a small amount of Greek yogurt or buttermilk to the marinade.

Cooking Techniques: Grilling, Baking, or Air Frying

• Grilling provides the most authentic, smoky flavor with a slightly crispy exterior.
• Baking is convenient and results in juicy chicken with a crispy breadcrumb coating.
• Air frying offers a quicker, healthier alternative while maintaining crispiness.

Popular Chicken Spiedini Variations

Classic Italian-Style Spiedini

The traditional version consists of marinated and breaded chicken skewers, grilled or baked until golden brown. It is often served with a side of amogio sauce, a tangy garlic-lemon butter sauce that enhances the dish’s flavors.

Spiedini with Cheese Stuffing

A modern twist on the classic, this variation involves stuffing the chicken pieces with mozzarella, provolone, or fontina cheese before breading and skewering. The result is a deliciously melty, cheesy center with a crispy exterior.

Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options

For a gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds. A low-carb adaptation skips the breading altogether, letting the marinated chicken cook directly on the grill or in an air fryer for a lighter, keto-friendly dish.

Each variation of Chicken Spiedini brings its own unique flavors and textures, making it a versatile dish for different dietary preferences and tastes.

How to Make Chicken Spiedini at Home

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken – Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized cubes.
2. Marinate – In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Prepare the Breadcrumbs – Mix Italian-style breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley.
4. Coat the Chicken – Remove the chicken from the marinade and roll each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
5. Skewer the Chicken – Thread the coated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers.
6. Cook the Chicken – Choose your preferred cooking method:
   • Grilling – Cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
   • Baking – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Air Frying – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket midway.
7. Serve – Plate the Chicken Spiedini and drizzle with amogio sauce, lemon butter, or garlic aioli.

Tips for Marination

• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for better flavor.
• Marinate for at least one hour, but avoid marinating for over 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.
• Add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.

Cooking Techniques: Grilling, Baking, or Air Frying

• Grilling creates the most authentic, smoky flavor.
• Baking is a great hands-off method, perfect for batch cooking.
• Air frying offers a crispy texture with less oil.

Popular Chicken Spiedini Variations

Classic Italian-Style Spiedini

Traditional Chicken Spiedini features marinated and breaded chicken grilled to perfection, often served with a light lemon-butter sauce.

Spiedini with Cheese Stuffing

For a richer version, some recipes include a mozzarella or provolone cheese filling inside each piece of chicken before skewering and breading.

Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options

• Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
• Skip the breading entirely and grill the marinated chicken for a lighter, gluten-free take.

Best Sides and Sauces for Chicken Spiedini

Traditional Pairings (Pasta, Roasted Vegetables)

• Pasta – Serve over angel hair or linguine with a light olive oil and garlic sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the dish well.

Sauces: Amogio Sauce, Lemon Butter, Garlic Aioli

• Amogio Sauce – A zesty mix of garlic, lemon, butter, and herbs.
• Lemon Butter Sauce – A simple yet flavorful sauce made with butter, lemon juice, and garlic.
• Garlic Aioli – A creamy, garlicky dip that pairs beautifully with crispy Chicken Spiedini.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Spiedini

How to Prevent Dry Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Avoid overcooking by monitoring internal temperature.

Ideal Cooking Temperatures

• Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Skewer Placement for Even Cooking

• Leave a small gap between each piece of chicken on the skewer to ensure even cooking.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Health Benefits of Chicken Spiedini

Protein Content and Nutritional Value

• Chicken Spiedini is high in lean protein, making it a great option for muscle building and weight management.
• Using olive oil provides healthy fats and antioxidants.

Healthier Cooking Methods

• Grilling and air frying reduce the need for excess oil.
• Skipping the breading lowers carbs and calories while keeping the flavor intact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Spiedini

Over-Marinating the Chicken

• Marinating for too long (over 24 hours) can break down the meat too much, making it mushy.

Using the Wrong Type of Breadcrumbs

• Fine Italian-style breadcrumbs provide the best texture; panko works well for extra crunch, but avoid overly coarse breadcrumbs.

Cooking at Incorrect Temperatures

• Cooking at too high a heat can burn the breadcrumbs before the chicken is fully cooked.
• Cooking at too low a temperature can result in dry, overcooked chicken.

By following these tips and techniques, you can master the art of making delicious, restaurant-quality Chicken Spiedini at home!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to marinate Chicken Spiedini?

The best way to marinate Chicken Spiedini is to use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and parsley), salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, but for deeper flavor, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acidity in the lemon juice can break down the chicken too much, making it mushy.

Can Chicken Spiedini be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Chicken Spiedini ahead of time by marinating the chicken and assembling the skewers a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also freeze uncooked spiedini for up to 3 months—just thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.

How do I store and reheat Chicken Spiedini?

• Storage: Place leftover Chicken Spiedini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  • Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use short bursts of 30 seconds to prevent drying out.

Can I make Chicken Spiedini without breadcrumbs?

Yes! To make a breadcrumb-free version, simply marinate the chicken and grill or bake it without coating it in breadcrumbs. This is a great option for gluten-free or low-carb diets. You can also use crushed pork rinds or almond flour as a keto-friendly alternative to breadcrumbs.

What is the difference between Chicken Spiedini and traditional kebabs?

While both dishes involve skewered meats, they have key differences:

• Chicken Spiedini is Italian-American, typically breaded, marinated in lemon-garlic flavors, and served with a sauce like amogio or lemon butter.
• Traditional kebabs (like Mediterranean or Middle Eastern kebabs) are usually marinated in spices and cooked without breading. They may also use a mix of meats like lamb or beef.

Is Chicken Spiedini keto-friendly?

The classic version with breadcrumbs is not keto-friendly, but you can make a keto version by skipping the breading or using crushed pork rinds or almond flour as a substitute. Pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to keep it low-carb.

What is the origin of Chicken Spiedini?

Chicken Spiedini originates from Italian-American cuisine, inspired by the Italian dish spiedini, which involves skewered and grilled meats. It became especially popular in the Midwest United States, particularly in Kansas City, thanks to chef Jasper Mirabile Sr., who introduced a marinated and breaded version at his restaurant in the 1980s.

What is Spiedini in English?

The Italian word spiedini translates to « skewers » in English. It refers to a method of cooking where small pieces of meat, seafood, or vegetables are threaded onto skewers and grilled or roasted.

Which is the tastiest chicken dish in India?

India has many delicious chicken dishes, but some of the most popular and flavorful include:

• Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) – Creamy, tomato-based curry with tender chicken.
• Chicken Tikka Masala – Grilled, spiced chicken in a rich, flavorful sauce.
• Tandoori Chicken – Yogurt-marinated, spice-infused roasted chicken.
• Chicken Biryani – Fragrant, spiced rice dish with marinated chicken.

What is the difference between Spiedini and Speducci?

• Spiedini refers to Italian-style skewered meats, often breaded and marinated.
• Speducci (or Arrosticini) is an Abruzzese specialty from Italy, featuring skewered lamb or mutton, simply seasoned and grilled over an open flame.

Both are delicious, but Speducci is more common in Southern Italy and focuses on lamb, while Spiedini is broader and includes different meats and cooking styles.

Conclusion

Chicken Spiedini is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the essence of Italian-American cuisine to your table. Whether you prefer it grilled, baked, or air-fried, this dish offers a perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and zesty flavors. Pairing it with classic sides like roasted vegetables or a comforting chicken orzo bake enhances the meal, while a drizzle of amogio sauce or garlic butter adds an extra burst of flavor.

If you’re a fan of exploring different chicken recipes, you might also enjoy trying Polish chicken for a rich, homestyle dish or crown fried chicken for a crispy, indulgent variation. For those who appreciate creamy and comforting meals, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is another excellent option to add to your recipe collection.

Chicken Spiedini is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings family and friends together over delicious, homemade food. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.