Zesty Chicken Skewers and Charred Peppers Recipe with Fresh Herb Drizzle

Succulent chicken skewers dance with charred peppers in a vibrant culinary symphony that promises pure delight.

Grilled ingredients mingle under a verdant herb-infused vinaigrette, creating layers of complex flavors.

Mediterranean influences shine through each carefully seasoned bite.

Tender meat transforms when kissed by flames, developing a smoky exterior that contrasts beautifully with bright, zesty sauce.

Fresh herbs scattered across the plate whisper stories of summer gatherings and spontaneous outdoor cooking.

Marinades unlock secret dimensions of taste, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Ingredients for Chicken Skewers with Charred Peppers and Vinaigrette

• Olive Oil: A smooth base that helps distribute flavors and promotes even cooking.
• Basil, Oregano: Fresh herbs that provide aromatic and vibrant Mediterranean-style seasoning.
• White Vinegar, Red Wine Vinegar: Tangy liquids that balance and brighten the overall flavor profile.
• Honey: Natural sweetener that helps caramelize the chicken and balance acidity.
• Garlic: Adds robust and pungent flavor to the marinade.
• Chili Flakes: Provides a subtle heat and spicy kick.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that intensify the dish's taste.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky dimension to the chicken.

• Chicken: The primary protein that serves as the main ingredient of the skewers.
• Peppers: Colorful vegetables that provide sweetness and charred texture.

• Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy Greek-style sauce with a cool and tangy profile.
• Mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce with a fresh citrus note.
• Feta Cheese: Provides a salty and creamy element to the dish.

• Rice: Serves as the base for serving the skewered chicken and peppers.

How to Prepare Chicken Skewers and Charred Peppers

Step 1: Whip Up Herbaceous Vinaigrette

Grab a glass jar or mixing bowl.

• Olive oil
• Fresh basil
• Dried oregano
• Red wine vinegar
• White wine vinegar
• Minced garlic
• Honey
• Red chili flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper

Shake or whisk everything together until the ingredients meld into a vibrant, aromatic dressing.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

• Half of the prepared vinaigrette
• Smoked paprika

Gently coat the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, creating beautiful kebab-style portions.

Step 3: Char Colorful Peppers

Fire up the grill to medium-high heat.

Roast peppers until their skin becomes beautifully blackened and blistered.

Transfer grilled peppers to a covered bowl and let them steam for 10 minutes.

Carefully peel off the charred skin, remove seeds, and slice into strips.

Bathe the pepper slices in the remaining vinaigrette.

Step 4: Grill Chicken to Perfection

Place chicken skewers on the grill.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating occasionally to ensure even charring and thorough cooking.

Look for a golden-brown exterior and completely cooked interior.

Step 5: Create Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

• Tzatziki sauce
• Mayonnaise
• Fresh lemon juice
• Crumbled feta cheese

Mix until smooth and well-combined.

Step 6: Assemble Mediterranean Feast

Layer a serving bowl with rice.

Arrange grilled pepper strips and chicken skewers on top.

Add generous dollops of the creamy feta sauce.

Drizzle with additional Tzatziki for extra flavor.

Tips for Juicy Chicken Skewers with Herb Vinaigrette

• Let chicken soak in half the vinaigrette for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance taste and tenderness.
• Rotate peppers frequently on the grill to achieve even charring without burning, creating a smoky, sweet flavor profile.
• Allow grilled chicken skewers to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to retain juices and ensure optimal moisture.
• Blend tzatziki sauce ingredients thoroughly to develop a creamy, tangy complementary sauce that elevates the entire dish.
• Use fresh basil and oregano for brighter, more vibrant flavors compared to dried herbs in the vinaigrette.

Flavor Variations for Chicken Skewers with Peppers

• Mediterranean Lamb Skewers: Replace chicken with marinated lamb, using similar spices and grilling technique for a rich, robust flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Tofu Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu, marinate in same vinaigrette, and grill for a plant-based alternative with similar charred texture.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients like vinegars and sauces are certified gluten-free, serving over quinoa instead of rice for celiac-friendly meal.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Substitute rice with roasted cauliflower rice, maintaining all original flavors while reducing carbohydrate content for keto dieters.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Skewers and Peppers

• Mediterranean Feast Platter: Create a vibrant spread with warm pita bread, crisp cucumber salad, and kalamata olives surrounding the skewers for a full Mediterranean dining experience.
• Picnic Perfect Packaging: Pack skewers, peppers, and sauce separately in compartmentalized containers for an easy outdoor meal that stays fresh and delicious during travel.
• Flavor Boost Bar: Set up a small station with extra herbs, crumbled feta, chopped nuts, and lemon wedges so guests can customize their chicken skewers with additional zesty toppings.
• Leftover Magic Transformation: Slice remaining chicken and peppers into a wrap or salad the next day, using the vinaigrette as a quick dressing for an instant lunch upgrade.

How to Store Chicken Skewers with Peppers

• Store chicken skewers and peppers in airtight containers separately for up to 3-4 days. Keep sauce in a sealed jar in the refrigerator.
• Wrap cooled chicken skewers and peppers individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Place chicken skewers on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to prevent drying. Add splash of water to maintain moisture.

FAQs

• How do I ensure the chicken is properly marinated?

Let the chicken sit in half the vinaigrette with smoked paprika for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps create a more tender and flavorful result.

• Can I use different types of peppers for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with bell peppers, poblano, or even jalapeños. Choose peppers that char well and complement the chicken’s flavor profile. Different peppers will add unique taste and color to the dish.

• What's the best way to get perfect char marks on the chicken?

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and don’t move the skewers too often. Let each side cook for 3-4 minutes without constant flipping. This technique helps create beautiful grill marks and seals in the chicken’s moisture.

Why Chicken Skewers with Charred Peppers Are Great

• Boost Flavor Complexity: Packed with multiple layers of taste from smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and tangy vinaigrette, this recipe delivers a punch of exciting culinary dimensions.
• Master Quick Grilling Techniques: Simple step-by-step process allows home cooks to confidently grill chicken and vegetables with professional-level charring and presentation.
• Create Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep with adaptable ingredients that can be easily substituted or modified to suit different preferences.
• Elevate Healthy Eating: Combines lean protein, grilled vegetables, and fresh herbs for a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste or excitement.

Chicken Skewers and Charred Peppers with Herbaceous Vinaigrette Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-inspired chicken skewers dance with charred peppers in this herb-infused culinary journey. Bold flavors and simple ingredients merge seamlessly, promising a delightful meal that transports you to sunny coastal landscapes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds chicken breasts or thighs
• 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese

Herbs and Spices:

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons honey
• Chili flakes (to taste)
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Liquid and Supplementary Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 6 cloves garlic (3 sliced and 3 chopped)
• 3 bell peppers
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pepperoncini (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Craft a vibrant vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, fresh basil, oregano, red and white wine vinegars, minced garlic, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper in a glass container until thoroughly blended.
2. Marinate chicken pieces with half the prepared vinaigrette and a sprinkle of smoked paprika, ensuring each morsel is generously coated. Carefully thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers.
3. Expose bell peppers to medium-high grill heat, rotating until exterior develops a deep charred complexion. Transfer grilled peppers to a sealed container and allow to steam for 10 minutes. Delicately remove skin, extract seeds, and slice into elegant strips. Immerse sliced peppers in remaining vinaigrette.
4. Position chicken skewers on grill, cooking approximately 10-12 minutes at 375°F. Rotate periodically to achieve uniform charring and complete internal cooking.
5. Construct a creamy sauce by blending tzatziki, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice. Fold crumbled feta cheese into the mixture for added texture and tang.
6. Assemble dish by spreading a foundation of rice, artfully arranging charred pepper strips and grilled chicken skewers. Garnish with strategic dollops of feta sauce and a final drizzle of tzatziki.

Notes

• Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness, allowing herbs and spices to penetrate deeply.
• Use wooden skewers soaked in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning during grilling, ensuring even cooking and preventing charred edges.
• Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, maintaining the same marinade and grilling technique for plant-based protein.
• Control spice levels by adjusting chili flakes or using milder alternatives like smoked paprika for those with sensitive palates.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 410 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 370 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg