Chicken Caprese Skewers

A delightful summer dish, Chicken Caprese Skewers are perfect for any outdoor gathering or family dinner. These skewers combine juicy chicken pieces and sweet cherry tomatoes, all charred on the grill. Finished with a vibrant homemade pesto and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, they are not just flavorful but visually appealing as well. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a simple weeknight meal, these skewers will impress both guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The combination of grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, and basil pesto creates an irresistible taste that excites your palate.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a picnic spread.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the fresh basil and tomatoes, these skewers are a wholesome choice.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal dishes required, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Chicken Caprese Skewers, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Food processor
• Basting brush
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor that makes grilling unique and delicious.
• Food processor: Perfect for quickly making homemade pesto without the hassle of chopping by hand.
• Basting brush: Ensures even application of olive oil for grilling, enhancing flavor and preventing sticking.

Ingredients

A perfect summer recipe! Bite size chicken pieces and cherry tomatoes are threaded onto skewers and cooked on a grill to give them a light fire kissed char, then you finish them off with fresh homemade pesto and a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.

For the Chicken Skewers

• 1 3/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lb. grape tomatoes
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 (8 oz) package mozzarella balls (drained)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Pesto

• 2 cups (40g) slightly packed fresh basil leaves
• 3 Tbsp finely shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 Tbsp pine nuts or chopped walnuts
• 1 large garlic clove (minced (1 1/2 tsp))
• 1/3 cup olive oil (regular or extra virgin)

For the Glaze

• 3 Tbsp store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze

How to Make Chicken Caprese Skewers

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread pieces of chicken and grape tomatoes onto each skewer. Aim for about 4 pieces of chicken followed by 3 tomatoes per skewer.

Step 4: Season the Skewers

Brush both sides of each skewer with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place your assembled kebabs on the grill. Cook for about 4 – 6 minutes per side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Prepare the Pesto

While grilling, prepare your pesto. In a food processor, pulse together basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), and minced garlic until finely chopped.

Step 7: Add Olive Oil to Pesto

With the food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve Your Skewers

Once cooked through, remove kebabs from the grill. Thread one mozzarella ball onto each end of every skewer. Spoon generous amounts of pesto over each kebab and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving warm.

Enjoy these delicious Chicken Caprese Skewers at your next gathering!

How to Serve Chicken Caprese Skewers

Chicken Caprese Skewers are a delightful and versatile dish perfect for summer gatherings. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Pair the skewers with a simple green salad for a light meal.
• Serve with garlic bread to complement the flavors of the chicken and pesto.

Outdoor BBQ

• Set up a buffet-style spread with dips like hummus and tzatziki.
• Include assorted grilled vegetables to add color and flavor to your plate.

Appetizer Platter

• Arrange on a large platter with fresh basil leaves for decoration.
• Offer toothpicks alongside for easy serving at parties or gatherings.

Picnic Treat

• Pack the skewers alongside fresh fruit and a refreshing drink.
• Include small containers of extra balsamic glaze for dipping on the go.

How to Perfect Chicken Caprese Skewers

To make your Chicken Caprese Skewers truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in olive oil, salt, and pepper enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes for the best taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leave space between the chicken and tomatoes to ensure even cooking.
• Watch grilling time: Keep an eye on your skewers; overcooking can dry out the chicken. Aim for 4-6 minutes per side.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like oregano or thyme for added complexity in flavor.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy them warm off the grill for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Caprese Skewers

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with Chicken Caprese Skewers.

1. Caprese Salad: A classic combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and drizzle of balsamic glaze. Quick to prepare!
2. Grilled Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling until tender.
3. Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers, dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Season baby potatoes with herbs and roast until crispy on the outside and tender inside.
5. Couscous: Fluff couscous cooked in vegetable broth, then mix with diced vegetables and parsley for added freshness.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralize zucchini, sauté briefly in olive oil, and season lightly for a low-carb addition.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grill corn brushed with herb butter until charred; it adds sweetness that complements savory flavors.
8. Mixed Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing for balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Caprese Skewers, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the soaking step – Failing to soak wooden skewers can lead to burning on the grill. Soak them for at least one hour for best results.
• Overcrowding the skewers – Packing too much on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Aim for a balance of chicken and tomatoes, typically 4 pieces of chicken and 3 tomatoes per skewer.
• Not preheating the grill – Cooking on an unheated grill can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to about 425 degrees Fahrenheit before adding your skewers.
• Under-seasoning – Neglecting to season the chicken properly can make your dish bland. Be generous with salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken.
• Skipping homemade pesto – Using store-bought pesto may not provide the fresh flavor you want. Take a few minutes to whip up homemade pesto; it makes a significant difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Caprese Skewers in an airtight container.
• They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Caprese Skewers

• To freeze, place cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers; they will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Caprese Skewers

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake skewers for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm but be careful not to overcook, as this may dry out the chicken.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Caprese Skewers:

How do I make Chicken Caprese Skewers more flavorful?

You can marinate the chicken before grilling it. Try using lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.

Can I use other vegetables with my Chicken Caprese Skewers?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions make great additions or substitutions.

What is the best way to serve Chicken Caprese Skewers?

These skewers are perfect served warm as a main dish or cold as part of an appetizer platter.

How long do Chicken Caprese Skewers take to cook?

They typically take about 10-12 minutes on a preheated grill, depending on thickness.

Can I make Chicken Caprese Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Caprese Skewers are a delightful summer dish that combines juicy chicken with fresh tomatoes and aromatic pesto. This recipe allows for plenty of customization—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even switch up the cheese! Give it a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!