Marinated to Perfection and Grilled for Irresistible Flavor

If you’ve never had a Chicken Spiedie, get ready to fall in love with one of upstate New York’s most beloved regional specialties. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a zesty, herb-packed sauce, then grilled to smoky perfection and traditionally served on soft Italian bread or a hoagie roll. It’s simple, flavorful, and completely addictive.

Whether you're cooking for a summer BBQ, meal prepping for the week, or just want something bold and bright for dinner, this easy Chicken Spiedies recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

Here’s why you’ll want to keep this one on repeat:

Bright and Bold Marinade
The vinegar, lemon, garlic, and herbs infuse the chicken with deep flavor and tenderize it at the same time.

Juicy Grilled Chicken
The marinade helps keep the chicken juicy even when grilled at high heat.

Simple, Fresh Ingredients
No complicated techniques—just fresh ingredients and a little time.

Perfect for Sandwiches, Salads, or Skewers
Serve it the traditional way or get creative!

Meal Prep Friendly
Make the marinade ahead of time and store cooked spiedies in the fridge for days of easy meals.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Marinade

  • ½ cup olive oil – The base of the marinade, adding richness.

  • ¼ cup white vinegar – Classic tangy flavor for authentic spiedies.

  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Brightens and balances the marinade.

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced – A punch of savory depth.

  • 1 tsp salt – Enhances overall flavor.

  • ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a mild kick.

  • 1 tsp dried oregano – Earthy, classic herbaceous flavor.

  • 1 tsp dried basil – Adds a slightly sweet, aromatic touch.

  • 1 tsp parsley flakes – For color and freshness.

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For gentle heat.

For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Cut into 1½-inch cubes for skewering or pan-searing.

💡 Pro Tip: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better.

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and all herbs and seasonings.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1½-inch cubes and add it to the marinade. Toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first to prevent burning.

🪵 No skewers? No problem—just grill or pan-sear the marinated chunks directly.

Step 4: Grill or Cook

  • Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat. Grill chicken skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).

  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high with a bit of oil. Cook chicken pieces in batches for about 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. Serve warm in hoagie rolls, over salad, or with grilled veggies.

🔄 Variations to Try

Make it your own with these easy twists:

  • Greek-Style Spiedies – Add a dollop of tzatziki and sliced cucumbers.

  • Spicy BBQ Version – Swap vinegar with apple cider vinegar and brush with BBQ sauce while grilling.

  • Herb Upgrade – Use fresh herbs like chopped rosemary, thyme, or mint if you have them.

  • Zesty Citrus – Add orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

Classic or creative—these serving options never miss:

Traditional Style

  • Stuff into a hoagie or sub roll

  • Top with grilled onions or peppers

  • Add a splash of extra marinade as a dressing

Lighter Options

  • Over a Greek salad with feta and olives

  • Served with roasted potatoes or orzo

  • In a wrap with hummus and spinach

Party-Style

  • Serve skewers as appetizers with dipping sauces

  • Make a DIY spiedie bar with toppings and breads

📦 Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make Ahead

Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for best flavor.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate cooked spiedies in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze raw chicken in marinade in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.

Reheating

Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes! Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar both work well and add slightly different flavor profiles.

Can I bake spiedies instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake on a foil-lined sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway.

Are spiedies spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add heat with crushed red pepper or a spicy marinade variation.

Can I make these dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes! The base recipe contains no dairy or gluten. Just make sure your rolls or sides align with dietary needs.

🍋 Final Thoughts

Juicy, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying, these Easy Chicken Spiedies bring big flavor to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re grilling out or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a celebration of bold herbs, tangy marinade, and perfect tenderness. Once you try them, you'll understand why they’re a staple in upstate New York—and why they’re about to become one in your kitchen too.