Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini Recipe

Name: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup white wine, such as pinot grigio; 3 Tablespoons lemon juice, plus 1 teaspoon zest, divided; 1 teaspoon lemon zest, divided; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced, divided; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon oregano; 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 1 teaspoon pepper, divided; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces; 2/3 cup italian breadcrumbs; 2/3 cup panko; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 6 6-8 inch skewers; cooking spray; 4 Tablespoons butter; 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
3 tablespoons lemon juice, divided
1 teaspoon lemon zest
4 cloves garlic, finely minced, divided
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
2 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
2/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs
2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
6 (6 to 8 inch) skewers
Olive oil cooking spray
4 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Directions

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, lemon zest, 1/2 of the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
In a shallow dish, combine the remaining salt and pepper with the breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and toss it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Thread the chicken onto the skewers and lightly coat them with olive oil cooking spray.
Preheat your air fryer to 390F (198C). Place the skewers in the air fryer and cook for about 12 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave on high for about 10 seconds. Add the remaining minced garlic, stir in the remaining lemon juice, and mix in the fresh parsley.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and drizzle the melted butter mixture over the skewers just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	636
Total Fat	41g (53% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	13g (63% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	212mg (71% Daily Value)
Sodium	1170mg (51% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	21g (8% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (5% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	43g (86% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	3mg (3% Daily Value)
Calcium	146mg (11% Daily Value)
Iron	3mg (17% Daily Value)
Potassium	524mg (11% Daily Value)

The History of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini has its roots in Italian culinary tradition, specifically from Sicily, where spiedini refers to small skewered meats often grilled over an open flame. Originally, spiedini were made with beef or lamb, seasoned simply with olive oil, herbs, and sometimes citrus to enhance flavor. As Italian immigrants spread across the globe, local adaptations emerged, substituting chicken for red meats due to availability, affordability, and a preference for lighter protein. Over time, the addition of garlic butter and a touch of lemon became a signature style, blending rich, savory notes with bright, tangy freshness.

Regional Variations

Across Italy, spiedini are prepared differently depending on the region. In northern Italy, a more delicate marinade with white wine and herbs is common, reflecting the lighter cuisine of the area. Southern Italy, particularly Sicily, favors bold flavors, incorporating garlic, chili flakes, and lemon zest to complement the Mediterranean climates abundant citrus and fresh produce. In modern American adaptations, the dish is often baked or air-fried instead of grilled, making it accessible for home cooks without outdoor equipment while retaining its characteristic crisp exterior and juicy interior.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While spiedini may resemble other skewered dishes like kebabs or satay, the flavor profile sets it apart. Unlike Middle Eastern or Southeast Asian skewers, Italian spiedini focus on aromatic herbs, Parmesan, and citrus rather than heavy spice pastes or peanut-based sauces. Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini distinguishes itself further by the buttery drizzle and breadcrumb coating, offering a contrast between crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, creating a uniquely Italian balance of textures and flavors.

Serving Occasions

This dish is versatile in its presentation. Traditionally, it is served as a main course during family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or festive occasions. In contemporary settings, it is popular at casual dinner parties, served alongside roasted vegetables, arugula salads, or risotto. The skewered format makes it ideal for both plated meals and buffet-style serving, allowing guests to enjoy a finger-friendly dish without compromising on flavor sophistication.

Interesting Facts

Spiedini literally means little spikes in Italian, referring to the skewers used to cook the meat.
Originally, the skewers were often made of sugarcane or hardwood, which subtly infused the meat with flavor during grilling.
The combination of garlic and lemon has been a hallmark of Mediterranean cooking for centuries, prized for enhancing taste without overpowering natural meat flavors.
Modern adaptations, like air-frying, maintain crispness while reducing the need for excessive oil, reflecting evolving health-conscious cooking trends.
The dishs popularity in the United States grew alongside Italian-American cuisine, often appearing in cookbooks and social media as an approachable yet elegant recipe.

AI Audio version of the recipe is available!

You can listen to this recipe in AI audio format. Simply click the play button below to listen to the content in a format that suits you best. It’s a great way to absorb information on the go!

FAQ about Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Spiedini Recipe

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 1 hour in advance. This will enhance the flavor, but make sure to store it in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the breadcrumbs mixture ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the skewers just before cooking for the freshest results.

If you don’t have skewers, you can still prepare this recipe by simply placing the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet or air fryer tray. Just be sure to flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure it crisps up evenly.

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven to retain its crispiness.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken spiedini. Place the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, cook in the air fryer or oven until heated through and crispy.

You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option. Additionally, try different seasonings or herbs like Italian seasoning, rosemary, or thyme. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic or lemon juice.

Yes, you can make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before drizzling it over the chicken.

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is cooked through and safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the center of the chicken pieces.

Yes, you can bake the chicken spiedini in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them in a skillet with a little oil, turning occasionally for even cooking.

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, pasta, or rice. You can also serve it with a simple lemon vinaigrette or a creamy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Yes, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade to give it a spicy kick. Adjust the heat level to your personal preference.

Comments

Kathleen Parker

10/22/2023 10:19:42 PM

Great recipe! I was a bit worried it would be too tangy with the lemon, but it turned out just right. You can also choose to pan fry it or bake it in a 350-degree oven for 20-30 minutes, just make sure to use a thermometer to check for doneness.

Mark Smith

04/14/2024 12:17:52 AM

This is my first review on this website, but I wanted to share my thoughts because there are so few reviews here, which can be intimidating when trying out new recipes. I must say, this dish was absolutely delightful! It reminded me a lot of the Chicken Piccata recipe from Barefoot Contessa that I often make for special occasions. However, this recipe is a much quicker version that still delivers amazing flavor. I skipped skewering the chicken to save time, and I'll definitely do the same when I make it again.

Rachel Johnson

04/20/2023 05:43:50 PM

This dish is a keeper! It was absolutely delicious! I baked it in a 425-degree oven for approximately 30 minutes.

Dennis Torres

04/30/2023 08:50:37 PM

I've tried this recipe twice, once with chicken breast and then with chicken thighs. Surprisingly, it turned out much better with chicken thighs, which I usually don't prefer. Since I no longer have an air fryer (I've had 3 die on me), I cooked them in my convection oven on a rack over a sheet pan. Just like the author mentioned, if you don't give this a try, you're missing out! This recipe uses ingredients commonly found in my pantry and fridge, with the only added necessity being chicken thighs. Absolutely delicious!

Sarah Clark

06/06/2024 12:14:47 PM

I used whole chicken tenders instead of thigh pieces and the dish turned out absolutely delicious! No need for skewers, cooking time remained the same, and the chicken was crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. I will definitely be making this recipe again!

Richard Campbell

12/06/2024 02:32:04 AM

Wow, this dish turned out to be absolutely delightful! I made a few adjustments since I didn't have panko breadcrumbs and was too exhausted to thread the chicken onto skewers, so I simply arranged the pieces on a baking sheet. Other than that, I stuck to the recipe. Additionally, I used the Air Fry function in my oven instead of a countertop appliance. The entire family was pleasantly surprised by how tasty it was. This recipe is definitely going into our regular meal rotation. It may involve several steps, but the end result is definitely worth it!

Charles Adams

10/04/2024 08:49:43 PM

This recipe is delicious, but I have to deduct a star because the preparation time is incredibly unrealistic unless you have a team of prep cooks to help clean and cube the chicken, skewer it, prepare the marinade, batter the chicken, and get everything ready. There's no way one person can do all this in 15 minutes. 45 minutes is a much more realistic estimate, and you won't be rushed trying to get it into the air fryer within that time frame. Despite the time constraints, the taste is fantastic.

Kenneth Wright

02/11/2025 05:01:20 PM

Review Rewritten: I absolutely loved this delicately flavored main dish! It was crispy, tender, and light. The garlic butter drizzle and parsley were essential additions that brought out all the flavors. I decided to add a teaspoon of paprika to the marinade, which worked really well. If you don't have an air fryer, you can still make this in the oven with the convection setting. Just remember to cook it a bit longer, rotate the pan halfway through, and it will turn out just as delicious!

Melissa King

10/05/2022 08:44:09 AM

My husband came across this recipe on Facebook and I decided to give it a try. I usually like to do some research before trying out a new recipe, and I learned that traditionally, this dish is made with thinly sliced beef that is rolled up. I found a recipe for that version and it turned out pretty good. I even made homemade Italian breadcrumbs for it, which I ended up using for a few other recipes, including this one. Although the recipe sounded promising, I faced a few challenges. Firstly, my air fryer was too small to accommodate the skewers, so I had to bake the dish in the oven instead. I started baking at 400°F in convection mode, similar to the air fryer instructions. I used metal skewers placed on a casserole dish with some cubed potatoes, rotating them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Surprisingly, after 30 minutes, the chicken wasn't cooked through, so I had to increase the temperature to 425°F and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the chicken reached an internal temperature of 165°F. While the flavor was enjoyable, I found the lemony taste a bit overpowering, and my husband agreed that it was too strong for his liking. Additionally, I discovered that I'm not a fan of cooking chicken thighs this way as the cooking method didn't allow them to tenderize enough. Unfortunately, this dish didn't become a favorite in our household.

Frank Sanchez

09/09/2023 01:44:37 PM

My Sicilian grandmother always made Spedini with beef, so that's the version I'm most familiar with. I decided to try making it with pre-cubed Purdue chicken breasts instead. The recipe turned out great, although it was a bit too lemony for my taste. I'll adjust the amount of lemon next time I make it.

Katherine Thomas

11/15/2024 10:36:45 PM

Review rewritten: Amazing! We absolutely adored it, and my husband insisted that we must make it again. His Italian and Sicilian relatives used to prepare these frequently, but adding lemon really elevated the dish beyond just being breaded. I plan to add a bit more lemon next time as I absolutely loved that touch, and reduce the garlic in the sauce; my husband adores garlic, but it was a tad overpowering for me. Nonetheless, everything else was fantastic. While mine didn't crisp up well in the air fryer, a quick stint under the broiler for a few minutes did the trick to achieve a toasty, golden brown finish. It was simply perfect! Plus, it was such a joy to eat. Thanks a bunch!

Samantha Moore

02/04/2024 06:15:40 PM

My husband, who is usually hard to please and overly critical, actually said it might be the best thing he's ever eaten! The kids loved it too! I used chicken tenders cut into chunks and accidentally over-marinated them for about 6 hours due to a scheduling error. Instead of skewering them, I just baked them in a glass dish in the air fryer, flipping them halfway through. I followed the recipe exactly, except for the marinating time, and the dish turned out incredibly delicious! Thank you so much!

Debra Cruz

08/29/2023 11:55:58 AM

Simple and tasty! I enjoyed it on a bed of arugula topped with shaved parmesan cheese and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

James Harris

12/19/2023 11:37:40 AM

I substituted Italian seasoning for panko breadcrumbs and baked the dish in the oven at 350 degrees for 40 minutes, flipping it halfway through. It turned out wonderfully, and my husband loved it! He said it's a recipe worth keeping!

Timothy Hall

09/14/2024 07:42:36 PM

Review: Absolutely fantastic! 🌟👌

William Carter

05/22/2023 01:03:55 AM

Enjoyable recipe to prepare with my wife and me!!!

Charles Martin

08/11/2024 06:26:21 AM

Amazing!!! I loved it, but I wish there was more garlic butter parsley drizzle. Next time, I'll double the sauce. Excellent!

Sarah Scott

04/27/2025 04:24:02 PM

Great taste

Virginia Roberts

08/13/2024 01:03:18 PM

Simple and tasty

Susan Rodriguez

06/22/2023 07:48:26 AM

A tasty way to liven up chicken dishes! I swapped the wine for chicken broth and my 11-year-old absolutely enjoyed it!

audio version

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Pretzel Crust Pizza Recipe

View Recipe

Roasted Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce Recipe