Chicken Scrapariello Skewers
Chicken Scrapariello is an Italian-American classic known for its zesty combination of chicken, vinegar, peppers, and herbs. This skewer version transforms it into a fun, grillable dish with chunks of marinated chicken, sweet and spicy peppers, and savory sausage — all on a stick.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinate Time (optional): 30 minutes–4 hours
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 35–60 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 8 skewers)
Ingredients:
For the Skewers:
1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
8 oz Italian-style vegan or chicken sausage, sliced into chunks
1 cup mini sweet peppers or bell peppers, halved or thickly sliced
½ red onion, cut into chunks
Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if wooden)
For the Marinade:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Thread chicken, sausage, peppers, and onions onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
4. Cook the Skewers:
Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake skewers on a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with rice, salad, or grilled flatbread.
Notes:
- Use bone-in sausage rounds if you like extra juiciness.
- Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts when grilled.
- You can cook in a cast iron pan if not using a grill or oven.
Tips:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Add cherry peppers for traditional Scrapariello heat.
Frequently asked questions FAQs:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can marinate and assemble skewers a day in advance. Store covered in the fridge.
Q: Can I use just vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Substitute tofu or just load up on veggies and sausage for a vegetarian version.
Q: What goes well on the side?
A: Serve with lemon herb rice, grilled potatoes, couscous, or a chopped Mediterranean salad.
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~390
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 620mg