These Baked Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a delicious and hearty meal perfect for any day of the week. Marinated chicken fillets, paired with fresh vegetables, are wrapped in smoky bacon and baked to perfection. The blend of spices adds a flavorful kick that complements the juicy chicken and tender veggies. This recipe is easy to prepare, visually appealing, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone!
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Active Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes (including marinating and baking)
Ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 3 chicken fillets (approx. 500 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Vegetables:
- 2 onions, cut into chunks
- 2 tomatoes, cut into chunks
- 6 potatoes, cut into chunks
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 300 g (10.5 oz) smoked cooked bacon, cut into strips
- Wooden skewers
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Baking Supplies:
- 3 pieces of baking foil
- 2 pieces of baking paper
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken fillets into bite-sized pieces.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper.
- Cover with cling film and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cut the onions, tomatoes, and potatoes into chunks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetables with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of dried garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme.
- Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Preheat your oven to 240°C (464°F).
- Alternate threading the marinated chicken, onion, tomato, and potato chunks onto the wooden skewers.
- Wrap each skewer with a strip of smoked bacon.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Place a piece of baking paper on top of a piece of baking foil for each skewer.
- Place the assembled skewers on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Skewers:
- Place the skewers in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of green salad, tzatziki, or garlic sauce.
- Pair with a light quinoa or couscous salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Prevent Burning: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning in the oven.
- Even Cooking: Cut all ingredients into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: A lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair.
- Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Spices: Enhance flavor while providing anti-inflammatory properties.
Dietary Information:
- High Protein: Great for those looking for a protein-rich meal.
- Gluten-Free: Suitable for a gluten-free diet when using certified gluten-free ingredients.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 850mg
Storage:
- Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Quick: Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Bursting with Flavor: A blend of spices and herbs brings out a delicious taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
- Versatile: Can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal.
Conclusion:
This Baked Chicken and Vegetable Skewers recipe is a wonderful option for a delicious and healthy meal. With its simple preparation and a mouthwatering combination of flavors, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy the smoky aroma and juicy tenderness that these skewers bring to your table, leaving everyone satisfied and eager for more!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables for the skewers?
- Yes, you can add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Can I grill these skewers instead of baking them?
- Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble them a few hours before and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- What can I use instead of bacon?
- Use turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit for a lighter option.
- How do I prevent the vegetables from overcooking?
- Cut vegetables into larger chunks to ensure they don’t overcook before the chicken is done.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets?
- Yes, chicken thighs will provide a juicier result; just adjust cooking time as needed.
- How do I store leftover skewers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I make this recipe spicy?
- Yes, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- What can I serve with these skewers?
- Serve with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
- Marinating enhances flavor but can be skipped if short on time.