Introduction:
Craving a tasty and fun-to-eat meal that’s perfect for both kids and adults? Look no further than Aunt Tanya’s Breaded Chicken Skewers. These skewers are easy to make and combine juicy chicken breast pieces with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb coating. Whether for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these skewers are sure to be a hit.
Overview of the Recipe:
Aunt Tanya’s Breaded Chicken Skewers are a simple yet delightful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces, a crunchy coating, and zesty lemon. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and can be served as a main course or appetizer. The process involves coating the chicken in seasoned flour, eggs, and a Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, then searing and baking them to perfection.
History and Origin:
Chicken skewers have a long history across various cultures, from Middle Eastern kebabs to Asian satay. Breaded chicken, popularized in Western cuisine, adds a delicious twist to traditional skewers. Aunt Tanya’s version likely evolved from these global influences, creating a family-friendly dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Skewers:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Set Up Breading Stations:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers.
- Dredge each chicken skewer in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Dip the floured skewers into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat the skewers with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Sear the Chicken Skewers:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Skewers:
- Transfer the seared skewers to a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve the skewers hot with lemon wedges.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving:
This recipe serves four people and is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. It makes a fantastic main dish or an impressive appetizer for gatherings.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
Pair Aunt Tanya’s Breaded Chicken Skewers with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For beverages, a glass of iced tea or a citrusy lemonade complements the dish well.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Spicy Breaded Chicken Skewers: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Chicken Skewers: Mix dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and basil into the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Gluten-Free Chicken Skewers: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Health Benefits:
- Chicken Breast: High in protein and low in fat, making it a lean source of essential nutrients.
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Parsley: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Notes:
- For even cooking, ensure chicken pieces are cut uniformly.
- Soaking wooden skewers helps prevent burning during cooking.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
Q: Can I prepare the skewers in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the skewers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? A: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion:
Aunt Tanya’s Breaded Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that brings together the best of breaded chicken and convenient skewers. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for family meals, parties, or any occasion that calls for a tasty and satisfying dish. With its crispy coating and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful crunch and savory taste of these breaded chicken skewers, and savor the flavors of this beloved dish