Chicken Spiedie

Chicken Spiedies are a Binghamton, NY classic and for good reason. A long marinade time is key to get incredibly juicy, flavorful pieces of grilled chicken served on an Italian loaf.

If you’ve never heard of a Chicken Spiedie, you’re in for a treat. This delicious sandwich hails from upstate New York, specifically the Binghamton area, and has a rich history that spans several decades. A spiedie (pronounced “speedy”) consists of marinated pieces of meat, traditionally chicken, lamb, or beef, grilled on skewers and served on soft Italian bread. The secret to its mouthwatering taste lies in the marinade, which imparts a tangy, herby kick to the tender meat.

What Makes This So Great?

The Chicken Spiedie is more than just a sandwich; it’s a culinary experience. The marinade is what sets it apart, combining olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to create a flavor profile that’s both tangy and aromatic.

When grilled, the marinated chicken develops a delightful char, adding a smoky depth to each bite.

The soft Italian bread soaks up the juices, making every mouthful incredibly satisfying. This sandwich is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any time you want to enjoy a meal that’s both simple and extraordinary.

What Kitchen Items Do You Need To Make This?

To make Chicken Spiedie, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment: Wooden skewers, Resealable plastic bag or container for marinating the chicken, Bowl for mixing the marinade, Whisk, Grill (charcoal or gas), Tongs for turning the skewers, A sharp knife for slicing the bread. Having these items on hand will make the preparation and cooking process straightforward and enjoyable.

What Ingredients Are Needed For This Recipe?

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make Chicken Spiedie: 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes, 1 cup olive oil, 1 cup white vinegar, 6 cloves of garlic, minced, 2 tsp salt, 2 tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp Italian seasoning, Wooden skewers, Italian loaf for serving. These ingredients come together to create a marinade that’s packed with flavor, ensuring every bite of your Chicken Spiedie is delicious.

How To Make It

Making Chicken Spiedie is a simple process that involves marinating the chicken and grilling it to perfection. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning into a bowl and whisk together.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken cubes in a resealable plastic bag or container. Pour in the marinade and mix around so the chicken is evenly coated, reserving about ¼ cup of the marinade for serving. Marinate for 1-3 days, stirring the chicken each day to redistribute the marinade.
3. Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
4. Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shake off any excess, and thread the cubes onto the skewers. Discard the remaining marinade.
5. Grill the Chicken: Cook the skewers on the preheated grill, turning every 3 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 10 minutes.
6. Prepare the Sandwich: Slice the Italian loaf in half lengthwise. Place 1-2 skewers on the bread, squeezing the bread while removing the skewers so the meat remains. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken and enjoy.

What Is The History Behind This Recipe?

The origins of the Chicken Spiedie date back to the early 20th century, with roots in the Italian-American community of Binghamton, New York. The name “spiedie” comes from the Italian word “spiedo,” meaning “spit” or “skewer.” Italian immigrants brought this cooking method to the region, where it evolved into the beloved dish we know today. Initially, lamb was the primary meat used, but over time, chicken and other meats became popular alternatives. The Spiedie Festival and Balloon Rally in Binghamton celebrates this local delicacy annually, drawing visitors from all over to enjoy the simple yet flavorful sandwich.

What Can I Switch Up To Make This Different If I Have Dietary Needs (Vegan/Vegetarian/Gluten Free)?

While the traditional Chicken Spiedie is a meat-centric dish, there are ways to adapt it for various dietary needs:

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the chicken with firm tofu, seitan, or portobello mushrooms. Use the same marinade, adjusting the marinating time as needed for your chosen protein. Grill as usual, ensuring your protein alternative is cooked to your liking.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the Italian loaf with a gluten-free bread option. Ensure that any pre-made marinade ingredients, like the vinegar or Italian seasoning, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the rich, tangy taste of a Spiedie while accommodating your dietary preferences.

Why is it called a spiedie?

The term “spiedie” is derived from the Italian word “spiedo,” which means “spit” or “skewer.” This name reflects the traditional method of cooking the marinated meat on skewers over an open flame, a technique brought to the United States by Italian immigrants in the early 20th century.

What is spiedie sauce made of?

Spiedie sauce is a simple yet flavorful marinade made from olive oil, white vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This combination of ingredients gives the meat a tangy and aromatic taste, making it the centerpiece of the Spiedie sandwich.

Where are chicken Spiedies from?

Chicken Spiedies originated in the Binghamton area of upstate New York. This regional delicacy was developed by Italian immigrants who adapted their traditional cooking methods to create a dish that has become a local favorite.

What is a spiedie sandwich?

A Spiedie sandwich consists of marinated and grilled pieces of meat, typically chicken, lamb, or beef, served on a soft Italian loaf. The meat is cooked on skewers, then transferred to the bread, often with an additional drizzle of the reserved marinade for added flavor.

How Should I Store This?

If you have leftovers, it’s essential to store your Chicken Spiedies properly to maintain their taste and texture. Here’s how:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, you can use a microwave, oven, or stovetop. For the best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or on a stovetop over medium heat. This helps retain the juiciness and prevents the meat from drying out.
3. Freezing: If you want to store the marinated chicken before grilling, place the marinated pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Chicken Spiedies even days after making them.

Chicken Spiedie is a testament to the culinary ingenuity of the Italian-American community in upstate New York. Its simple yet effective marinade and grilling method create a sandwich that’s both delicious and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer cookout or as a quick dinner, the Chicken Spiedie is sure to become a favorite in your household.