Irresistibly Crispy & Tender Chicken Spiedini: Your Guide to Authentic Italian Skewers
Prepare for a culinary journey with our incredibly flavorful Chicken Spiedini! These delicious Italian chicken skewers are made from succulent chicken thighs, marinated in a vibrant mix of fresh lemon and aromatic garlic, then expertly breaded and grilled to achieve an irresistible crispy perfection. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors with every bite, making it an instant family favorite.
Imagine serving these golden-brown skewers alongside our Crispy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes and fresh Sautéed Rapini with Garlic. This combination creates a perfect, wholesome summer meal that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coasts of Italy. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, Chicken Spiedini offers a delightful and satisfying experience.

Craving more delicious grilled recipes? You’ll love our juicy Big Fat Greek Chicken Burger or the authentic taste of Italian Ring Sausage (Chevalatta). Explore these and more for your next grilling adventure!
What is Chicken Spiedini?
Spiedini, derived from the Italian word “spiedo,” meaning “spit” or “skewer,” refers to small pieces of meat or vegetables threaded onto a skewer and then cooked. Traditionally, in regions like Abruzzo, Italy, spiedini are made with lamb (arrosticini) or veal, often with bay leaves and breadcrumbs, and grilled over an open flame. Our Chicken Spiedini recipe takes this classic Italian street food concept and adapts it using tender chicken thighs, making it accessible and incredibly flavorful for a modern palate. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the essence of Italian grilling, delivering a dish that’s both rustic and refined.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Spiedini Recipe
Our Chicken Spiedini recipe stands out for its unique combination of textures and flavors. You’ll experience the most incredibly tender chicken coupled with an irresistible crunchy exterior, a characteristic hallmark of perfectly prepared Italian street food. A final squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the entire dish, creating a balanced and zesty finish.
The secret to the chicken’s exceptional tenderness and rich flavor lies in our meticulously crafted marinade. By allowing the chicken to soak in a mixture of vibrant lemon juice, pungent fresh garlic, and rich olive oil, the flavors deeply penetrate the meat. This process not only infuses the chicken with an incredible depth of taste but also helps to tenderize it, much like our popular Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. For the best results, we emphasize marinating the chicken for at least an hour, allowing these wonderful flavors to fully develop.
Following the marinade, we dredge the chicken skewers in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. This step is crucial for creating that coveted crispy crust and golden char once the skewers hit the grill. The breadcrumbs form a protective layer that crisps beautifully, locking in moisture and adding a delightful textural contrast. The final touch of a fresh lemon squeeze just before serving is non-negotiable – it elevates the flavors, adding a bright, acidic counterpoint to the savory chicken and crispy breading. If you’re looking for a delicious skewer recipe without the breadcrumbs, be sure to try our savory Garlic Parm Chicken Skewers.
Key Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

- Chicken Thighs: This is arguably the most crucial ingredient for achieving the desired tenderness. Chicken thighs are naturally more moist and flavorful than chicken breasts due to their higher fat content, which helps them stay juicy during grilling. This mimics the traditional tenderness of veal and sheep used in classic spiedini. If you prefer white meat, we highly recommend trying our Cast Iron Chicken Breast recipe, which is specifically designed to keep chicken breast moist and flavorful.
- Breadcrumbs: For that ultimate crispiness and golden-brown crust, Panko breadcrumbs are your best friend. Their larger, flakier texture absorbs less oil and results in a significantly crunchier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. While regular Italian seasoned breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute, for truly superior texture, panko is highly recommended.
- Dijon Mustard: Often overlooked, Dijon mustard plays a vital role as an emulsifier and binder in our marinade. It helps to effectively bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken, ensuring an even coating that sticks throughout the grilling process. Beyond its functional role, Dijon also adds a subtle tangy depth to the marinade, complementing the lemon and garlic beautifully.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Essential for both the marinade and a final squeeze over the cooked skewers. It tenderizes the chicken, adds a bright, acidic flavor, and cuts through the richness of the breading.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic forms the aromatic backbone of the marinade, infusing the chicken with its pungent, savory notes. Always use fresh for the best flavor!
- Olive Oil: The base of our marinade, olive oil helps to carry the flavors, keeps the chicken moist, and aids in caramelization during grilling.
- Parmesan Cheese: Mixed with the breadcrumbs, Parmesan adds a salty, umami-rich flavor and contributes to the golden crust.
- Fresh Parsley: A pop of fresh green and herbaceous flavor in the breading mixture, adding an aromatic touch.
*Please see the full recipe card below for precise measurements and detailed ingredient information.
How to Make Chicken Spiedini: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Marinade. Begin by mincing your fresh garlic very finely, almost to a paste, to ensure its potent flavor is evenly distributed. In a medium bowl, whisk together the freshly minced garlic with lemon juice, high-quality olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the marinade is a cohesive mixture. This vibrant marinade will infuse your chicken with incredible taste.

Step 2: Season the Chicken. Take your boneless chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut them into approximately 1-inch uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Generously season both sides of the chicken pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is important for building flavor from the inside out.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken. Add the seasoned chicken thigh pieces to the bowl with your prepared marinade. Toss gently to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours for maximum flavor absorption. Just like with our Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, proper marination is key to incredibly tender and flavorful results.

Step 4: Prepare the Breading Mixture. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your breading. On a large, shallow plate or baking dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and finely chopped fresh parsley. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined. This mixture will give your spiedini their signature golden, crunchy crust.

Step 5: Skewer the Chicken. Once the marinating time is complete, remove the chicken from the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken thigh pieces onto your skewers. Try to pack the chicken pieces relatively close together without squishing them, ensuring they cook evenly and retain their shape on the skewer. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 6: Bread the Skewers. Carefully transfer the skewered chicken onto the plate containing your breadcrumb mixture. Gently roll and toss the skewers, ensuring each piece of chicken is thoroughly and evenly coated with the breading. Press lightly if needed to help the breadcrumbs adhere. This step guarantees a consistently crispy exterior.

Step 7: Grill to Perfection. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Before placing the chicken, it is crucial to thoroughly spray or brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the breadcrumbs from sticking and tearing off, which can ruin that beautiful crust. Place the breaded chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, turning them until all sides are golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). This usually takes about 12-16 minutes in total. The internal temperature is key for food safety and ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
Once cooked, transfer the irresistible Chicken Spiedini to a serving platter. Give them a generous squirt of fresh lemon juice – this Mediterranean dish truly shines with that final acidic burst! Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors. Grilling recipes like Chicken Spiedini or our succulent Grilled Stuffed Pork Chops are the perfect way to savor the summer. For a complete and refreshing meal, serve alongside a vibrant Orzo and Garbanzo Bean Salad, or perhaps a simple fresh green salad.
Expert Tips for Success
- Optimal Marination Time: While a minimum of 15 minutes will impart some flavor, aim for 1-4 hours in the refrigerator. This longer marination period allows the lemon and garlic to truly penetrate the chicken, resulting in significantly more tender and flavorful skewers.
- Prevent Sticking on the Grill: This tip is paramount for maintaining that beautiful breadcrumb crust. Always spray your grill grates generously with cooking spray or brush them with oil *just before* placing the spiedini on the grill. This creates a non-stick surface, preventing the delicate breadcrumbs from sticking to the grates and tearing off when you flip them.
- Prepare Ahead for Convenience: Chicken Spiedini are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the skewers a day in advance. Marinate the chicken, then thread it onto skewers and dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Store the breaded skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld even further and makes grilling a breeze on busy days.
- Use Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are a great reusable alternative and don’t require soaking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Cook the skewers in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the grill. Overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature and steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing a crispy crust.

Beyond the Grill: Alternative Cooking Methods
While grilling truly brings out the best in Chicken Spiedini, imparting a smoky flavor and perfect char, there are excellent alternative cooking methods that yield delicious results, especially if you don’t have access to a grill or prefer indoor cooking:
Air Fryer: For an incredibly crispy result with less oil, the air fryer is a fantastic option. Preheat your air fryer to a high temperature, around 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Arrange the breaded spiedini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for optimal airflow. Cook for 8 minutes, then carefully flip them. Continue cooking for another 8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) and the breading is golden and crisp. This method produces results reminiscent of our Air Fryer Garlic Parm Wings – wonderfully crunchy!
Cast Iron Skillet: A heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet is perfect for achieving a beautiful sear and crispy exterior indoors. Heat your cast iron skillet to medium-high heat on the stovetop. Add a tablespoon or two of olive oil, ensuring the bottom is well coated. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the breaded chicken skewers in the skillet, leaving enough space between them. Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through to 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). The cast iron’s even heat distribution ensures a great crust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Spiedini
While our recipe features succulent chicken thighs for their incredible tenderness and flavor, Spiedini is traditionally a broader term for skewers. In Italy, particularly in the Abruzzo region, spiedini are most famously made with small cubes of lamb or veal (sometimes pork), often interspersed with bay leaves and breadcrumbs, and grilled. The use of chicken thighs in this recipe beautifully mimics the tender texture of the traditional meats, offering a delicious and widely accessible alternative.
Spiedini holds a rich culinary history, with its roots deeply embedded in Italy, especially in the central region of Abruzzo, where it’s a beloved street food. These grilled skewers, known locally as arrosticini when made with lamb, are a staple of festive gatherings and casual dining. Interestingly, Spiedini also enjoys immense popularity in places like Kansas City, MO, where Italian-American communities have embraced and adapted the dish, making it a regional favorite with unique variations. It’s a testament to the universal appeal of simple, delicious grilled meat.
Chicken Spiedini is the quintessential summertime dish for me, offering a fantastic main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. To truly embrace its Italian essence, consider serving it alongside a vibrant Italian Pasta Salad, or for a touch of elegance, some perfectly Steamed Artichokes. Other delightful options include a refreshing Italian Green Bean Salad, offering a crisp counterpoint to the rich chicken, or for a unique Southern-Italian twist, crispy Fried Green Tomatoes. Don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine or a light lager to complete the perfect Mediterranean meal!

Watch the Video: How to Make Chicken Spiedini
More Irresistible Summer Recipes
Looking for more culinary inspiration to brighten your summer days? Here are some other fantastic recipes perfect for warm weather gatherings and weeknight meals:
- Grilled Shrimp Salad with Mango Lime Dressing
- Mediterranean Chicken Wrap
- Goat Cheese Burger with Fig Jam
- Eggplant Caprese Grilled Cheese
We hope you love this Chicken Spiedini recipe as much as we do! Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment and a star rating in the recipe card below. Your feedback means the world to us and helps other home cooks discover delicious meals. Feel free to share your culinary creations with us on Instagram and tag @vindelgiudice.
📖 Recipe

Chicken Spiedini
Vincent DelGiudice
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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1 grill
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1 large bowl
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skewers
Ingredients
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3-4 lbs boneless chicken thighs -
salt and pepper
Marinade
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⅓ cup olive oil -
3 tablespoon lemon juice -
½ teaspoon salt -
2 cloves garlic, minced -
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
Breadcrumb Mixture
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1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs -
⅓ cup parmesan cheese -
1 tablespoon garlic powder -
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped -
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined to create your marinade.
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Season boneless chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Cut the chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch squares. Add the chicken to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 1-3 hours.
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On a large plate, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, fresh parsley, and salt for your breading mixture. Once the chicken is done marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers. Toss the skewered chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly covered on all sides.
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Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly spray or brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken skewers on the grill, turning them every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), which should take about 12-16 minutes total.
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Remove the cooked Chicken Spiedini from the grill, place them on a serving plate, and finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For the most flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, and preferably 1-4 hours.
- Always spray or brush the grill grates with oil right before placing the spiedini to prevent the breadcrumbs from sticking.
- To save time, prepare the breaded skewers a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
- If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 39g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19g
Trans Fat: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 739mg
Potassium: 409mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 325IU
Vitamin C: 5mg
Calcium: 90mg
Iron: 2mg
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