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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Position chicken skewers on grill, cooking approximately 10-12 minutes at 375°F. Rotate periodically to achieve uniform charring and complete internal cooking.
- Construct a creamy sauce by blending tzatziki, mayonnaise, and fresh lemon juice. Fold crumbled feta cheese into the mixture for added texture and tang.
- 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