France By Food Enthusiasts · 5 min read

National Dish France: Brochettes de Poulet (Recipe)

Grilled chicken skewers with peppers and courgette on a platter

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Bring a taste of summer in the south of France to your own garden with Brochettes de Poulet, France’s irresistible chicken skewers. Tender pieces of chicken are threaded between colourful vegetables, brushed with a fragrant herb marinade and grilled until smoky and golden. Simple to put together yet full of flavour, these skewers are made for unhurried evenings around the barbecue. Bon appétit!

About Brochettes de Poulet

Brochettes de Poulet is a much-loved French dish that is a genuine feast for the senses, bringing the flavour of France straight to your table. These tender chicken skewers are not only easy to prepare but also packed with aromas that make your mouth water. The pairing of juicy chicken with fresh vegetables turns them into the highlight of any barbecue. Perfect for warm weather, they bring a little of the French way of life into your home.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

300 g chicken breast fillet
1 pepper (red or yellow)
1 courgette
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Wooden skewers (soaked in water beforehand)

Shopping for the ingredients

To make Brochettes de Poulet you will need fresh ingredients, all of which are easy to find in any well-stocked supermarket. When buying the chicken, look for high-quality, free-range or organic meat for the best results. The vegetables should be fresh and crisp to guarantee the finest flavour. Don’t forget to soak the wooden skewers in good time so they don’t scorch on the grill.

Preparing the dish

Before you start grilling, get all the ingredients ready. The chicken needs to be cut into evenly sized cubes so it cooks through at the same rate. The vegetables can be cut into larger pieces to create an appealing contrast with the chicken. Make sure everything is prepared before you mix the marinade; it saves time and makes the whole process much easier.

Step-by-step instructions

Cut the chicken breast fillet into even cubes and slice the vegetables into large pieces.
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt and pepper to make the marinade.
Add the chicken and vegetables to the marinade and leave to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Thread the marinated chicken and vegetable pieces alternately onto the wooden skewers.
Grill the skewers on the barbecue or in a griddle pan for about 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

Brochettes de Poulet are especially flexible and easily adapted to a gluten-free or lactose-free diet. Simply make sure your oil and spices are certified gluten-free. The dish is naturally lactose-free, as long as you avoid any lactose-containing marinades or ingredients. That makes these skewers a great option for anyone with food intolerances.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

If you would rather make a vegan or vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken for tofu or a medley of vegetables. Marinate the tofu in the same savoury mixture to intensify the flavour. Vegetarian skewers work beautifully with aubergine, mushrooms and courgette. This way you can conjure up a similar dish that still carries all the culinary character of French cuisine.

More tips and tricks

To turn Brochettes de Poulet into something truly memorable, experiment with different marinades. Play around with herbs and spices to add your own personal touch. You can also include different vegetables, or even fruit such as pineapple or peach, for a fruity note. That way your skewers become a fresh taste experience every time. The same generous use of herbs gives Poulet Basquaise its lively character.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

The beauty of Brochettes de Poulet lies in the recipe’s versatility. You can change the spices or the type of vegetables to suit your own preferences. If you like a bit of heat, add a little chilli or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. For a Mediterranean flair, tuck olives or feta cheese between the pieces, which adds another layer of flavour to the dish.

Ingredient substitutions

If you are looking for alternatives to the traditional ingredients, there are plenty of options. Instead of chicken you could use lamb or beef, both of which are delicious — much like the meat at the heart of Brochettes d’Agneau. For the marinade, try yoghurt in place of olive oil for a creamier texture. Different vegetables such as squash or carrots also make wonderful additions to these tasty skewers.

Drink pairing ideas

Brochettes de Poulet go wonderfully with light white wines such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé. A refreshing rosemary lemonade is another excellent choice that complements the flavours of the dish beautifully. For an alcohol-free option, sparkling mineral water with a squeeze of lemon or lime works perfectly. Either way, your evening around the grill becomes that bit more festive.

Serving and presentation ideas

Presentation is everything when it comes to serving Brochettes de Poulet at their best. Use large platters and garnish the skewers with fresh herbs. Serve them with a colourful salad — a Salade de Lentilles is a lovely match — or an aromatic dip to round things off. The more inviting your platter looks, the more your guests will want to tuck in.

A bit of history

The tradition of skewers runs deep in French cooking and is a symbol of the country’s sociable food culture. Brochettes de Poulet are a prime example of the French knack for turning simple ingredients into delicious gourmet fare. Grilling has a long history in France, often tied to convivial gatherings. These skewers capture perfectly how French cooking embraces the idea of enjoying good food together.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Brochettes de Poulet

Brochettes de Poulet are a real treat and a must for any barbecue. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create an aromatic dish that delights your guests. Whether you serve them classic or with your own twist, this recipe promises a slice of French cuisine in your own home. Enjoy the variety these delicious skewers offer, and let their flavour win you over.