Paprika Chicken Skewers Recipe
Introduction
Delight your taste buds and elevate your next gathering with these vibrant Paprika Chicken Skewers, a dish that effortlessly marries succulent chicken with the sweet crunch of bell peppers, all brought together with the robust flavor of paprika. Perfect for parties or casual dinners, these skewers are sure to impress your guests while being incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) | 2 cups, chopped into small chunks |
Red bell pepper (capsicum) | 1, cubed |
Yellow bell pepper (capsicum) | 1, cubed |
Green bell pepper (capsicum) | 1, cubed |
Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
Paprika powder | 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste) |
Salt | To taste |
Whole black peppercorns | 1 teaspoon, freshly ground (adjust to taste) |
Extra virgin olive oil | As required |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 280 |
Protein | 25g |
Total Fat | 15g |
Saturated Fat | 3g |
Cholesterol | 70mg |
Carbohydrates | 9g |
Dietary Fiber | 2g |
Sugars | 3g |
Sodium | 500mg |
Preparation Steps
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Prep the Skewers: Start by soaking wooden skewers in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes. This will prevent them from burning during cooking.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken with the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure that each piece of chicken is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for about 2 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it more flavorful and tender.
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Prepare the Peppers: While the chicken marinates, take the cubed bell peppers and place them in a separate bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to combine, ensuring that the peppers are evenly coated.
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Assemble the Skewers: Once the chicken is done marinating, take the soaked wooden skewers and begin threading the chicken and bell pepper pieces alternately. Start with a piece of chicken, followed by a piece of red pepper, then yellow, green, and repeat until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at each end for easy handling.
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Cooking the Skewers: Preheat your oven to broil. Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Broil the skewers in the oven for about 20-30 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes. Brush the skewers with additional olive oil each time you turn them to keep them moist and ensure even cooking.
Alternatively, you can cook the skewers on a skillet or grill. If using a skillet, heat it over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Cook the skewers, turning occasionally and brushing with oil, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
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Serving Suggestions: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the oven or skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve your Paprika Chicken Skewers warm, as a delightful appetizer, alongside other enticing dishes such as Garlic Chicken Cheese Balls, Cheesy Garlic Broccoli Nuggets, or Loaded Baked Potato French Fries for a truly festive spread.
Conclusion
These Paprika Chicken Skewers are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious addition to any table. The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic spices makes for a dish that is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your culinary adventure and share the love with friends and family through these delectable skewers!