There’s something about firing up the grill on a summer afternoon, isn’t there? The sizzle of chicken skewers hitting the grates—it’s like a little culinary symphony. These easy grilled chicken skewers are perfect for those impromptu backyard gatherings when you want something simple yet irresistibly tasty. Oh, and if the grill runs out of gas mid-cook (been there, done that), just pop them in the oven—they’re forgiving like that.
Steps
- Place the boneless chicken breasts inside a resealable plastic bag, then sprinkle them with meat tenderizer. Add the Italian-style salad dressing, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Remove any excess air, seal the bag, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Prepare your outdoor grill by preheating it to medium heat and lightly oiling the grate to prevent sticking.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill the chicken on the preheated grill for approximately 5 to 10 minutes on each side, until the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for safety.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 teaspoon meat tenderizer
- ½ cup Italian-style salad dressing
Nutritional Values
Calories: 872 | Total Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 272mg | Sodium: 2748mg | Total Carbohydrate: 12g | Total Sugars: 8g | Protein: 108g | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 4mg | Potassium: 1260mg
FAQ
- How long should I marinate the chicken for optimal flavor?
- It is recommended to marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken effectively.
- What is the ideal grilling time for chicken skewers?
- The chicken should be cooked on the preheated grill for about 5 to 10 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for safe consumption.
- Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, chicken tenderloins can be used as an alternative. They might require less grilling time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- What can I add to the marinade for extra flavor?
- For enhanced taste, consider adding soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce to the Italian-style dressing. This variation has been praised for adding depth to the marinade.
- Is it possible to bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling?
- Certainly. If grilling is not an option, you can bake the skewers in the oven. This method still yields delicious results, especially if outdoor grilling is not feasible.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce into the marinade along with the Italian-style salad dressing.
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning.
- To make appetizer-sized portions, try cutting the chicken into smaller pieces and using shorter skewers.
- In case of bad weather, you can bake the skewered chicken in the oven as an alternative to grilling.
Equipment
- Skewers (Wooden or Metal)
- Instant-read thermometer
- Outdoor grill (if you don’t already have one)
