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Garlic Herb Chicken Skewers with Creamy Polenta and Sautéed Spinach

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  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Garlic herb-marinated chicken skewers served over creamy Parmesan polenta with sautéed spinach. A balanced, flavorful meal ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Metal or wooden skewers (if using wood, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal (polenta)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and thread onto skewers. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water and milk to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy, about 15–20 minutes. Stir in butter, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly charred.
  4. In a pan, heat olive oil or butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add spinach and cook until wilted, 2–3 minutes. Season with salt.
  5. To serve, spoon creamy polenta onto a plate, drizzle with butter and black pepper, top with sautéed spinach and chicken skewers. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use chicken breast if preferred, but thighs remain juicier on the grill.
  • Polenta can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of milk.
  • For added zest, finish with a squeeze of lemon over the chicken.
  • Add chili flakes to spinach for a subtle kick.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plated serving
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg