Chicken Scarpariello Skewers: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Chicken Scarpariello Skewers: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the heart of a bustling Italian-American kitchen! Imagine succulent, bite-sized pieces of chicken, marinated in a symphony of sweet and tangy flavors, then perfectly grilled and threaded onto skewers for easy enjoyment. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience.

Chicken Scarpariello, traditionally a skillet dish, boasts a rich history rooted in the resourceful kitchens of Italian immigrants. The name itself, meaning “shoemaker’s style,” hints at its humble origins, suggesting a dish crafted from whatever ingredients were readily available. It was a way to create a flavorful and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Over time, this dish has evolved, and our skewer version offers a modern, fun twist on a beloved classic.

What makes Chicken Scarpariello Skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes. The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, thanks to the marinade, and the slight char from the grill adds a delightful smoky element. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly versatile – perfect for a summer barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or even an elegant appetizer. Plus, the skewer presentation makes it fun and easy to eat! So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let’s create some culinary magic together!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
• 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Marinating the Chicken and Vegetables:

This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it! The marinade infuses the chicken and vegetables with tons of flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of the olive oil, red wine vinegar, white wine, minced garlic, rosemary, sage, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This is your flavorful marinade!
2. Add the cubed chicken thighs, bell pepper pieces, and onion wedges to the bowl.
3. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! I usually aim for at least 4 hours.

Assembling the Skewers:

Now comes the fun part – putting together the skewers! Get creative and alternate the chicken and vegetables for a visually appealing and delicious result.

1. Remove the chicken and vegetables from the refrigerator.
2. Thread the chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and onion onto the soaked wooden skewers. Alternate the ingredients to create a colorful and balanced skewer. Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. I usually aim for about 5-6 pieces of chicken per skewer, along with a good mix of peppers and onions.
3. Repeat until all the chicken and vegetables are used.

Cooking the Chicken Scarpariello Skewers:

You have a couple of options for cooking these skewers: grilling or pan-frying. I’ll give you instructions for both, so you can choose your preferred method.

Grilling Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
3. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. Remove the skewers from the grill and set aside.

Pan-Frying Instructions:

1. Heat the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully place the skewers in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly browned. Again, ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the skewers from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Scarpariello Sauce:

This is where the magic happens! The Scarpariello sauce is what truly makes this dish special. It’s tangy, savory, and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice.

1. In the same skillet (or a clean skillet if you prefer), add the chicken broth and butter.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits are called fond, and they add a ton of flavor to the sauce!
3. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes, depending on your preference.

Serving the Chicken Scarpariello Skewers:

Now it’s time to plate up and enjoy your delicious Chicken Scarpariello Skewers!

1. Arrange the cooked skewers on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the Scarpariello sauce generously over the skewers.
3. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! These skewers are fantastic on their own, or you can serve them with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a lot of heat, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade and sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Sweeten it up: For a slightly sweeter sauce, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce while it’s simmering.
• Add peppers: Feel free to use other types of peppers, such as poblano peppers or banana peppers, in addition to or instead of the bell peppers.
• Add mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms would be a great addition to the skewers. Add them to the marinade along with the other vegetables.
• Use different cuts of chicken: While I prefer chicken thighs for their flavor and tenderness, you can also use chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, just like the thighs.
• Make it ahead: You can marinate the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
• Serving suggestions: These skewers are delicious served with a side of creamy polenta, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.
• Storage: Leftover Chicken Scarpariello Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Scarpariello Skewers! I hope you love them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Chicken Scarpariello Skewers are so much more than just a quick weeknight meal; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. The combination of sweet peppers, tangy vinegar, savory sausage, and perfectly grilled chicken creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold, vibrant flavors and appreciates the simplicity of a well-executed dish.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a casual backyard barbecue, a fun appetizer for a party, or even a sophisticated addition to a summer buffet. The skewers are easy to handle, making them ideal for serving to a crowd, and the vibrant colors are visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to any table. Plus, the recipe is easily adaptable to your own preferences. Don’t like spicy sausage? Use sweet Italian sausage instead! Want to add more vegetables? Zucchini, onions, or even cherry tomatoes would be fantastic additions.

Speaking of serving suggestions, the possibilities are endless! I personally love serving these skewers with a side of creamy polenta or a simple orzo salad. The richness of the polenta complements the tangy sauce beautifully, while the orzo provides a light and refreshing contrast. You could also serve them with crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving them over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.

Here are a few variations to consider:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
* Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken and sausage with firm tofu and vegetarian sausage.
* Use different peppers: Experiment with different colored bell peppers or add some spicy banana peppers for a unique twist.
* Add some sweetness: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the marinade can enhance the sweet and savory flavors.
* Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the marinade for a brighter flavor.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Chicken Scarpariello Skewers for yourself. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Please share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy grilling! I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your household. Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it! Your feedback helps others discover this delicious dish.