Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde, or Chicken Skewers with Paprika and Mustard, is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling, barbecues, or even weeknight dinners. The chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of mustard, paprika, garlic, and olive oil, creating a savory, slightly tangy flavor with a smoky kick. These skewers are not only delicious but also versatile—serve them with a side of vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply want a tasty and quick dinner, these chicken skewers will undoubtedly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold and Smoky Flavor

The combination of paprika and mustard creates a vibrant and smoky flavor profile that perfectly complements the tender chicken.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and a simple marinade, this dish comes together in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

3. Perfect for Grilling

These skewers are made for the grill, and they cook quickly, allowing you to enjoy delicious, charred chicken in under 30 minutes.

4. Customizable

Feel free to add your own twist to the marinade by adjusting the level of heat or adding herbs and spices that suit your taste.

5. Healthy and Lean

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, and when paired with vegetables on the skewers, this dish becomes a balanced and healthy meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Ground paprika
Dijon mustard
Garlic (minced)
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Wooden or metal skewers

For Serving:

Vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, optional)
Rice, couscous, or a green salad (optional)

Variations

1. Add Heat

If you like spicy food, add some cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.

2. Herb Infusion

Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the marinade to enhance the flavor profile with fresh, aromatic notes.

3. Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for firm tofu or portobello mushroom slices, which will absorb the marinade beautifully and grill well.

4. Honey Mustard Variation

If you prefer a sweeter flavor, substitute some of the Dijon mustard with honey to create a honey mustard marinade that balances the tang with sweetness.

5. Add a Citrus Twist

Use orange or lime juice instead of lemon for a citrusy variation that adds a refreshing touch to the skewers.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, paprika, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into 1- to 1.5-inch cubes. Place the chicken cubes into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, alternating with vegetables (if desired).

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown with grill marks.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve alongside rice, couscous, or a simple salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate the Chicken Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, though overnight marination will result in even more depth of flavor.
Grill Over Medium Heat: Cooking the skewers over medium heat ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without burning the outside.
Check Chicken for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables on the skewers, such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini, for variety and added flavor.

How to Serve

Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde can be served in various ways. They are delicious on their own as a finger food, but you can also serve them with a side of rice or couscous for a more substantial meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes would also complement the skewers perfectly. For a fun and casual gathering, serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as a yogurt-based sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken.

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated chicken (before grilling) in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and proceed with grilling.

Reheating

To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them on a grill or in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes per side.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking. Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook and may not work well on skewers.

2. Can I use a grill pan if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop to achieve similar grill marks and flavor.

3. Can I make these skewers without a grill?

Yes, you can cook these skewers in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

4. What’s the best mustard for this recipe?

Dijon mustard works best for its tanginess and smooth texture. However, you can experiment with whole-grain mustard or spicy mustard for different flavor variations.

5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They’re juicier and more flavorful but may require slightly more cooking time.

6. How can I adjust the flavor of the marinade?

You can adjust the mustard or paprika levels depending on your preference for tanginess or smokiness. Add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter marinade.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before or in the morning and grill it when ready. You can also assemble the skewers in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

8. Can I serve these skewers with a sauce?

Yes, a creamy garlic sauce, tzatziki, or even a spicy harissa sauce would pair wonderfully with these skewers.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely! Feel free to add a variety of vegetables such as peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms for a more colorful and nutritious dish.

10. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Conclusion

Brochettes de Poulet au Paprika et Moutarde is an easy yet impressive dish that packs a punch with bold flavors and a smoky, tangy finish. The juicy chicken, savory marinade, and smoky paprika make this recipe a favorite for grilling season or a casual dinner. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish can quickly become a go-to for both weeknight meals and entertaining. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, these chicken skewers are sure to please any crowd.