Description
These Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are a fresh and flavorful dish, perfect for summer grilling. Tender chicken pieces are marinated with garlic, basil, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. Served alongside a creamy, garlicky whipped ricotta, this recipe is both simple and elegant, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Whipped Ricotta: While the chicken marinates, prepare the garlicky whipped ricotta by placing the ricotta cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, then adjust seasoning as needed.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature to ensure a nice sear and even cooking.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces carefully onto the soaked wooden skewers, evenly spacing them for proper cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked through and develops a slight char for added flavor.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skewers and arrange on a serving platter. Serve immediately with the garlicky whipped ricotta on the side for dipping.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle fresh basil over the skewers as a garnish and enjoy this fresh, flavorful dish right away.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- You can substitute chicken thighs if preferred for juicier meat.
- The whipped ricotta can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Adjust garlic quantity in the ricotta to your taste preference.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
