What are Grilled Chicken Spiedies?
A Binghamton Specialty
In the heart of New York’s Southern Tier region, specifically in Binghamton, there exists a culinary treasure that has become an integral part of the community’s identity – Grilled Chicken Spiedies. This local specialty has been delighting taste buds for generations with its unique blend of flavors and textures.
The origins of Grilled Chicken Spiedies can be traced back to Italian immigrants who arrived in Binghamton in the early 20th century, bringing with them their rich culinary traditions. These Italian influences merged with local tastes, giving birth to a distinct and mouth-watering dish that is quintessentially Binghamton.
At its core, Grilled Chicken Spiedies consist of marinated chicken cubes, typically made from breast or thigh meat, which are then skewered on bamboo spits. These spits are the namesake “Spiedie,” a term that has become synonymous with the dish in Binghamton.
The marinade is where the magic happens – a harmonious balance of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and often other ingredients such as paprika, oregano, or cayenne pepper. This aromatic mixture not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The traditional way to serve Grilled Chicken Spiedies is on a bun, similar to a sandwich, often accompanied by sliced red onions, tomato, and a sprinkle of parsley. The bun acts as a vessel for the flavorful chicken, allowing each bite to be savored with every component melding together in perfect harmony.
The preparation method for Grilled Chicken Spiedies is an art form in itself, passed down through generations of local cooks who take great pride in their craft. It’s not uncommon to see clusters of grills fired up on street corners or in community gatherings, as people gather to share stories and savor the taste of these beloved skewers.
For those new to Grilled Chicken Spiedies, be prepared for an immersive experience that will awaken your senses and leave you craving more. Whether it’s at a local restaurant, food truck, or backyard cookout, this Binghamton specialty is sure to captivate your taste buds and become a cherished memory.
Grilled chicken spiedies are a classic dish from upstate New York, specifically from Binghamton area. This tasty treat is a staple at local festivals and backyard barbecues.
Grilled chicken spiedies are a beloved dish originating from upstate New York, particularly popularized in the Binghamton area.
This flavorful culinary delight has become an integral part of local festivals and backyard gatherings, where it’s often served as a crowd-pleasing snack or meal.
At its core, grilled chicken spiedies are essentially skewers of marinated chicken breast, typically cut into bite-sized pieces and cooked to perfection over an open flame.
The name “spiedie” is derived from the Italian word “spezzato,” which means “cut up,” a nod to the dish’s origins among local Italian-American communities in Binghamton.
The marinade used for spiedies typically includes a blend of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and a variety of herbs and spices that add depth and complexity to the chicken.
Once marinated, the chicken is skewered onto wooden sticks or metal rods, which are then grilled over medium-high heat until cooked through and lightly charred.
The finished spiedies can be served hot off the grill, often garnished with fresh parsley or basil, and accompanied by a side of crusty bread or a salad to round out the meal.
In addition to its delicious flavor, grilled chicken spiedies have also become an iconic symbol of local culture in Binghamton, with many residents claiming them as their own unique culinary tradition.
Whether you’re attending a summer festival or hosting your own backyard barbecue, grilled chicken spiedies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and a taste of the authentic flavors of upstate New York.
Served in Skewers
Grilled Chicken Spiedies, a beloved dish from Eastern New York, are skewered pieces of marinated chicken breast or thighs, typically grilled over an open flame and served on a bun. The name “Spiedie” is believed to have originated from the Italian word “spiedo,” meaning spit.
The dish has its roots in the Italian-American community of Endwell, New York, where it was created by local meat markets as a convenient and affordable meal for workers at the nearby Endicott Johnson shoe factory. The original Spiedies consisted of thinly sliced chicken cooked on skewers and served with a variety of toppings.
Traditionally, Grilled Chicken Spiedies are made with boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips and marinated in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and oregano. The marinade helps to tenderize the meat and add flavor, while also providing a nice char on the outside when grilled.
Once marinated, the chicken is threaded onto skewers, often along with onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables, depending on personal preference. The skewers are then grilled over direct heat, typically using charcoal or gas grills, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
The finished Grilled Chicken Spiedies are usually served on a bun, often topped with additional ingredients such as marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onions. Some variations may include a side of Italian dressing or a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar for added flavor.
While the traditional recipe remains popular in its native region, Grilled Chicken Spiedies have also gained popularity across the United States, with many restaurants and home cooks experimenting with different marinades and topping combinations to create their own unique versions of this classic dish.
In addition to its delicious flavor, Grilled Chicken Spiedies are also a convenient meal option for outdoor gatherings or events, as they can be easily prepared in large quantities and served directly from the grill. Whether you’re a native of Eastern New York or just discovering this tasty treat, Grilled Chicken Spiedies are sure to become a new favorite.
Spiedies are traditionally served in skewers, typically with vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Grilled Chicken Spiedies are a traditional dish originating from the Binghamton area in New York State, USA.
The name “Spiedie” comes from Italian immigrants who settled in the region and brought with them their own culinary traditions.
A Spiedie typically consists of marinated chicken skewers, grilled to perfection and served with a side of savory sauce for dipping.
What is a Traditional Spiedie?
- The core ingredients of a traditional Spiedie are thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh meat, often mixed with onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and sometimes ham or cheese.
- The chicken mixture is then skewered onto metal rods, typically in a pattern that allows for even cooking and visual appeal.
Characteristics of Grilled Chicken Spiedies
- Flavorful marinade: A key component of a great Spiedie is the marinade, which typically includes olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, and sometimes red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Grilled to perfection: The chicken skewers are grilled over medium-high heat, allowing for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Variations of Grilled Chicken Spiedies
- Buffalo-style Spiedies: This variation adds hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
- Mediterranean-style Spiedies: This version includes feta cheese, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a taste of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients and Seasonings
Mix of Flavors
The art of combining ingredients and seasonings to create a perfect blend of flavors is a crucial aspect of cooking, especially when it comes to grilled dishes like our beloved Grilled Chicken Spiedies recipe.
When it comes to ingredients and seasonings, there are several key elements that come into play. The first is the quality of the individual components, such as fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and high-quality oils. Using subpar or outdated ingredients can result in a lackluster final product, whereas using top-notch materials ensures that every bite tastes like a symphony.
For our Grilled Chicken Spiedies recipe, we’ll be focusing on a mix of flavors that balance savory, sweet, and tangy notes. This will involve combining ingredients such as:
- Fresh parsley and oregano for their bright, herbaceous flavor
- Garlic and onion powder for their pungent, aromatic properties
- Paprika for its smoky, slightly sweet undertones
- Red pepper flakes for an added kick of heat
- Lemon zest and juice for a burst of citrusy freshness
- Olive oil and vinegar for their rich, tangy flavors
The art of seasoning lies in finding the perfect balance between these ingredients. A little too much garlic or onion powder can overpower the dish, while not enough paprika or red pepper flakes may leave it tasting bland.
When combining our ingredients and seasonings, we want to aim for a harmonious balance that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken without overwhelming them. To achieve this, consider the following tips:
- Start with a small amount of each ingredient and gradually add more to taste
- Experiment with different combinations to find your ideal balance
- Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning levels accordingly
- Don’t be afraid to let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld together
By mastering the art of combining ingredients and seasonings, you’ll be able to craft dishes that delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. In the case of our Grilled Chicken Spiedies recipe, this attention to detail will result in a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite.
The secret to a great spiedie lies in the marinade. A blend of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs creates a rich and savory flavor profile.
The key to a mouth-watering Grilled Chicken Spiedies lies in the marinade, where a harmonious balance of ingredients and seasonings come together to create an explosion of flavors on the palate.
First and foremost, olive oil is the backbone of the marinade, providing a smooth and velvety texture that enhances the overall flavor profile. It’s essential to choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, which boasts a robust and fruity aroma that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Vinegar, on the other hand, adds a tangy and refreshing touch to the marinade. A good quality red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar works beautifully in this recipe, adding a subtle complexity to the flavors. The acidity helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it tender and juicy.
Garlic is another crucial component of the marinade, infusing the dish with an unmistakable pungency that elevates its savory flavors. Fresh garlic cloves are the best choice here, as they contain a higher concentration of allicin, which is responsible for the characteristic aroma and taste.
A blend of herbs adds depth and dimension to the marinade, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary. A mix of fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, basil, and parsley creates a fragrant bouquet that complements the chicken perfectly. Be sure to chop or bruise the leaves slightly to release their essential oils, which are responsible for the aromatic properties.
The ratio of olive oil to vinegar can be adjusted according to personal taste preferences. Some people prefer a stronger acidity, while others like it smoother and more mellow. Additionally, you may also add other ingredients such as grated onion, lemon juice, or minced bell pepper to create a unique flavor profile.
Acidity from Vinegar
The flavors and aromas that make up the perfect Grilled Chicken Spiedies Recipe can be attributed to a combination of ingredients, seasonings, and acidity. When it comes to ingredients, the foundation of this dish lies in the high-quality chicken breasts used for skewering. Fresh vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness and texture.
The seasonings play a crucial role in elevating the flavors of the Grilled Chicken Spiedies. A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper creates an aromatic depth that complements the smokiness from grilling. Italian seasoning, typically made up of herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram, adds a subtle yet distinct flavor.
Acidity from vinegar is a critical component in balancing the flavors of the Grilled Chicken Spiedies. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used to achieve this effect, but it’s essential not to overpower the other flavors with an excessive amount. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the grilled chicken and enhances the overall taste experience.
For the marinade, a combination of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper creates a savory base that allows the flavors to meld together. Some recipes may also include lemon juice or zest for additional brightness, but be cautious not to overdo it with acidity levels.
The ratio of ingredients can vary depending on personal taste preferences and cultural influences. However, maintaining a balance between rich, savory, sweet, sour, and umami flavors is key to creating an authentic Grilled Chicken Spiedies experience.
A key component of any good spiedie is acidity, which comes from red wine vinegar. According to a study by Cornell University, acid can help break down proteins and tenderize meat.
- A key component of any good spiedie is acidity, which comes from red wine vinegar.
- This may seem unusual, but trust us – it makes all the difference in achieving tender and flavorful chicken.
- According to a study by Cornell University, acid can help break down proteins and tenderize meat. This is because acidic environments denature proteins, making them more accessible to enzymes that break them down.
- In this case, we’re using red wine vinegar to add a tangy flavor to our grilled chicken spiedies while also helping to tenderize the meat.
Here are some other key ingredients and seasonings you’ll need for this recipe:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
Now, let’s talk about the importance of acidity in spiedies. As mentioned earlier, acid helps to tenderize meat by breaking down proteins.
This is especially important when working with chicken, as it can be a relatively tough protein. By adding red wine vinegar to our marinade, we’re helping to ensure that our chicken stays moist and flavorful throughout the grilling process.
Another key benefit of acidity in spiedies is its ability to enhance flavor. Red wine vinegar has a strong, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred, smoky taste of grilled chicken.
Together, these flavors create a delicious and well-balanced taste experience that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Preparing Grilled Chicken Spiedies
Skewering the Meat
To prepare grilled chicken spiedies, you’ll first need to prepare a marinade that will add flavor and tenderness to the meat. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Add 1-2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs to the bowl, depending on your preference for leaner meat. If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into strips or cubes so they can be easily threaded onto skewers.
Toss the chicken in the marinade until it’s evenly coated, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your skewers by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This will prevent them from burning on the grill.
Cut red onion into 1-inch pieces and separate the rings. Cut bell peppers, such as green or red, into large chunks. If using mushrooms, slice them thinly so they can be easily threaded onto skewers.
Thread the chicken, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms onto the skewers in a pattern that allows for even cooking. You want to leave about 1/4 inch of space between each piece of food to allow for air circulation.
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Thread the spiedies onto skewers in a single layer and brush them with any remaining marinade.
Grill the spiedies for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through and slightly charred. You may need to adjust the cooking time based on your grill’s heat output.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil if desired.
Note: If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip the step of soaking them in water. Metal skewers will not burn on the grill like wooden ones might.
Once marinated, the chicken is skewered with vegetables and grilled over mediumhigh heat until cooked through.
To prepare delicious Grilled Chicken Spiedies, start by creating a marinade that will infuse flavor into the chicken. Mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs such as parsley and oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
Cut 1-2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or container with a lid, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade.
Add sliced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl as well, making sure the vegetables are distributed evenly among the chicken pieces. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or red onion if you prefer.
Refrigerate the marinade-covered mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and penetrate the meat. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor will be, so feel free to let it sit for a few hours in the fridge or even overnight if you have time.
When ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, making sure they are not overcrowded.
Grill the Spiedies for 10-15 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the meat and the heat level of your grill. You can also cook them in a sous vide machine or an oven if you prefer. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the skewers from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled bread, salad, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Spiedies!
Cooking Temperature
- To prepare delicious Grilled Chicken Spiedies, you’ll need to start by preparing the marinade and skewers.
- Ingredients for the marinade include olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and parsley.
- Mix these ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
Preparing the Chicken
- Cut boneless, skinless chicken breast into thin strips.
- In a large zip-top plastic bag or a non-reactive container with a lid, combine the marinade and chicken strips. Seal the bag or cover the container.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chicken to marinate.
Preparing the Spiedies Skewers
Cut red bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. Place these vegetables onto metal skewers along with the marinated chicken strips.
Sprinkle additional parsley over the top for garnish, if desired.
Cooking Temperature
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375°F or 190°C).
- Grill the chicken and vegetables for 8-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
Servicing
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve immediately while still warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
According to the USDA, grilling chicken to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) ensures food safety.
To prepare delicious and safe Grilled Chicken Spiedies, you’ll need to start by gathering the necessary ingredients and tools. This recipe typically requires boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. You’ll also need your favorite skewers, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (optional), lemon juice, and chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish.
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ideally between 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). While the grill is heating up, prepare the chicken by brushing it with a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. You can also add red pepper flakes if you prefer spicy Spiedies.
Once the chicken is coated with the marinade, thread the pieces onto your skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking. Make sure to handle the chicken safely and keep it at room temperature until grilling.
Place the skewered chicken on the grill, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It’s essential to avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
While the chicken is grilling, prepare your favorite Spiedie sauce by whisking together lemon juice and olive oil. If you prefer a more flavorful sauce, you can add minced garlic or onion powder to taste.
Once the chicken is cooked, brush it with the prepared sauce and serve immediately. You can garnish the Grilled Chicken Spiedies with chopped fresh parsley or dill for added flavor and visual appeal. Traditionally, Spiedies are served on a stick or in a pita bread roll with your choice of toppings.
Remember to always handle raw chicken safely and cook it to the recommended internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Spiedies!
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