Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of tangy lime, savory soy sauce, and spicy cayenne pepper creates a mouthwatering marinade that takes grilled chicken to the next level.

History

Grilled chicken skewers have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The use of skewers for cooking meat dates back to ancient times, when people would skewer meat on sticks and cook it over an open flame. The addition of a soy lime vinaigrette adds a modern twist to this classic dish, infusing it with bright and bold flavors.

Ingredients

4 lean, boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch strips
1 tsp grated lime zest
2 tbsp lime juice (from approximately 1 lime)
0.13 tsp cayenne
1.5 tsp low sodium soy sauce
1 tsp white wine vinegar
salt and pepper, to taste (optional)

How to prepare

Prepare the grill.
Thread the chicken strips onto skewers and place them on a platter.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime zest, lime juice, cayenne, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper (if using).
Use a pastry brush to brush the chicken on all sides with the vinaigrette.
Grill the skewers for 5 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through. Brush on any additional vinaigrette during the last minute of grilling.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein option.
Add chopped cilantro or mint to the vinaigrette for an extra burst of freshness.
Use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken onto them to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Brush the chicken with the vinaigrette while grilling to keep it moist and add extra flavor.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette with a side of steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for this recipe, as it imparts a smoky flavor to the chicken and creates beautiful grill marks.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon juice instead of lime juice.

- Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar instead of white wine vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter and garnish with lime wedges and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the citrus flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat (if using soy sauce), which are common allergens.

Summary

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette is a low-carb, high-protein dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients.

Summary

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The tangy lime, savory soy sauce, and spicy cayenne create a delicious marinade that takes grilled chicken to the next level. Serve with rice, vegetables, or a salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly in the sky and a gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the trees in my backyard. I had invited some friends over for a barbecue, and I wanted to impress them with a new dish.

As I rummaged through my recipe box, searching for inspiration, I stumbled upon a faded piece of paper tucked away in the back. It was a handwritten recipe for Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette, passed down to me by a dear friend many years ago.

I remembered the day my friend had shared the recipe with me. We were gathered in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of garlic and ginger. She had just returned from a trip to Thailand, where she had learned to make this delicious dish from a local street vendor.

As she walked me through the steps, I was captivated by the simplicity of the ingredients and the bold flavors they produced. The chicken marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and honey, creating a tangy and sweet glaze that caramelized beautifully on the grill. The vinaigrette, made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and fresh herbs, added a bright and refreshing finish to the dish.

I watched as my friend skewered the marinated chicken pieces onto bamboo sticks, the vibrant colors of the ingredients coming together in a beautiful mosaic. She explained that the key to grilling the perfect chicken skewers was to cook them over high heat, turning them frequently to ensure even caramelization.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, the flavors exploded in my mouth, transporting me to the bustling streets of Thailand. The tender chicken, infused with the bold flavors of soy and lime, paired perfectly with the fresh and zesty vinaigrette. It was a culinary experience unlike any other, and I knew that I had to make this dish my own.

Back in my backyard, I gathered the ingredients for the Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette, eager to recreate the magic of that day in my own kitchen. I marinated the chicken in the fragrant mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and honey, letting it soak up the flavors for hours before threading it onto skewers.

As the chicken sizzled on the grill, the sweet aroma of caramelization filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I brushed the skewers with the vinaigrette, the tangy notes of rice vinegar and sesame oil mingling with the smoky char of the grill.

When my friends arrived, the tantalizing scent of the Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette greeted them, their eyes widening in delight. As we sat down to eat, the flavors of the dish danced on our taste buds, evoking memories of far-off places and shared experiences.

From that day on, the recipe for Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I shared it with friends and family, passing down the tradition of delicious food and cherished memories.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in my kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. The recipe for Grilled Chicken Skewers with Soy Lime Vinaigrette will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing a meal made with love.