Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde

If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make chicken dish that will impress your guests, look no further than these Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde. This recipe combines tender pieces of chicken breast marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, herbs, and mustard, resulting in juicy, aromatic skewers that are perfect for grilling or broiling. The addition of paprika, cumin, and Herbes de Provence adds depth to the flavor, while Dijon or whole-grain mustard imparts a tangy kick to each bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, these chicken brochettes are a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and delicious.

With the option to customize the marinade with a little heat or tang by using cayenne pepper or Greek yogurt, you can easily tailor this recipe to your taste. This dish is also adaptable to dietary preferences, and it’s gluten-free when the proper ingredients are selected. Let’s dive into the details of making these irresistible chicken skewers.

Why You’ll Love Brochettes de Poulet

1. Flavorful and Aromatic

The combination of paprika, cumin, and Herbes de Provence gives the chicken an aromatic flavor that’s balanced by the tangy mustard. It’s a savory experience with every bite.

2. Easy to Make

The marinade comes together in just a few minutes, and once it’s ready, you simply need to skewer the chicken and cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

3. Versatile for All Occasions

These chicken brochettes are versatile enough to be served at a casual family dinner or as part of a larger spread at a barbecue or party. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, whether that means adding a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or using Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

5. Healthy and Light

With chicken breast as the main ingredient and minimal oil, these brochettes are a lighter alternative to many other grilled meats. They’re full of protein and perfect for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• Olive oil
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Espelette pepper (optional)
• Herbes de Provence
• Dijon or whole-grain mustard
• Small onion (finely grated)
• Garlic (finely grated)
• Salt (to taste)
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicier kick)
• Greek yogurt (optional, for a tangier marinade)
• Ensure your mustard and spices are gluten-free if needed

Variations

• Spicier Version: If you like more heat, replace the Espelette pepper with cayenne pepper or add extra chili flakes to the marinade.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the olive oil with Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy texture without using any dairy.
• Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that the mustard and spices are certified gluten-free to maintain the recipe’s suitability for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of Herbes de Provence for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

How to Make Brochettes de Poulet

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, cumin, Herbes de Provence, Dijon or whole-grain mustard, grated onion, grated garlic, salt, and Espelette pepper (if using). For a spicier version, you can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mix.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the marinade and stir to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavor will be.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before using to prevent them from burning during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Brochettes

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. If using a broiler, cook under high heat for the same amount of time.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or rice.

Tips for Making Brochettes de Poulet

• For even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size when cutting them into cubes.
• Don’t skip the marinating time – even just 30 minutes will make a significant difference in the flavor, but longer marination will give you the best results.
• If you’re grilling, make sure to preheat your grill to ensure the chicken sears well.
• For a smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken over indirect heat or adding wood chips to your grill.
• If you prefer a more tender, juicy result, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts, though breasts are a leaner choice.

How to Serve

These Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde are perfect for serving with a variety of sides. Try pairing them with a refreshing couscous salad, grilled vegetables, or even a tangy yogurt dip. You can also serve them alongside rice, quinoa, or a light green salad for a well-rounded meal. They’re also great for serving as appetizers at a party or picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover brochettes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them under the broiler or heat them in a skillet until warmed through.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked brochettes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Marinating Ahead of Time

You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and cook the skewers.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness, but chicken breasts are leaner and work perfectly as well.

2. Can I make these brochettes ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours before grilling. Cooking them in advance is not recommended as they are best served fresh.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended for the marinade to work its magic, but marinating for 1-2 hours will give you the best flavor.

4. Can I make the marinade without mustard?

Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the mustard and use additional herbs or a bit of lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I cook the brochettes in the oven instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can broil them in the oven under high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

6. What if I don’t have Espelette pepper?

You can substitute it with regular paprika or chili flakes for a slightly different heat level.

7. Can I use Greek yogurt in the marinade?

Yes, using Greek yogurt instead of olive oil will add a tangy, creamy texture to the marinade.

8. Are these brochettes gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure the mustard and spices you use are gluten-free, this recipe is gluten-free.

9. Can I grill these brochettes on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works perfectly for cooking the brochettes indoors.

10. Can I serve these brochettes with a sauce?

Yes, a creamy yogurt sauce or a mint chutney would be a great accompaniment.

Conclusion

These Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde are a delicious and simple way to enjoy marinated chicken. With a vibrant blend of spices, mustard, and fresh herbs, they’re full of flavor and perfect for grilling or broiling. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive barbecue, these chicken skewers will steal the show. You can easily customize the spice level and make them to suit your dietary preferences, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy them as a main course or appetizer, and they’ll surely become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

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• Chicken Meatloaf Recipe
• Spinach Artichoke Chicken Stuffed Peppers
• Chicken Caprese

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