Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers bring together the best of Italian flavors in one delicious, easy-to-make dish. Featuring tender pieces of chicken marinated in a zesty pesto sauce, paired with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, these skewers are the perfect appetizer, snack, or light meal. The combination of the fresh, bright ingredients with the savory pesto makes each bite a burst of flavor, perfect for any occasion.

These skewers are not only incredibly tasty but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any party platter, BBQ, or dinner gathering. Whether you’re serving them as a starter for a special dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party, Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers will undoubtedly be a hit.

Why You’ll Love Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers

• Bold, Fresh Flavors: The combination of pesto, juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil creates a symphony of bright, savory, and herby flavors.
• Quick and Easy: With a simple marinade and a few minutes of grilling, these skewers are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining.
• Versatile: Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers can be served as a light meal, appetizer, or party snack. They can also be paired with a variety of sides like a fresh salad or pasta, making them versatile for any occasion.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful combination of red, green, and white makes these skewers a beautiful addition to any meal, and they’re sure to impress your guests.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein from the chicken, antioxidants from the tomatoes, and healthy fats from the pesto, these skewers are not only flavorful but also nutritious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings (8 skewers)
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 5-8g
• Protein: 22-25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3-4g

Ingredients

For the Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 cup fresh pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 16-20 cherry tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Homemade Pesto (if using homemade):

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a different flavor)
• 2-3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pesto Marinade

If you’re making your own pesto, start by placing the basil leaves, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic cloves, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper into a food processor or blender. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.

With the food processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the pesto reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cheese if desired.

If you’re using store-bought pesto, you can skip this step and move on to marinating the chicken.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken cubes in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour about 1/2 cup of the prepared pesto over the chicken, reserving the rest for later. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours will allow the flavors to infuse the chicken even more.

3. Prepare the Skewers

While the chicken marinates, prepare the other ingredients. Wash the cherry tomatoes and set them aside. If using fresh mozzarella balls, drain them and cut them in half if they’re large. Set aside the fresh basil leaves for garnish.

Once the chicken has finished marinating, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Start by threading one piece of chicken onto each skewer, followed by a tomato, a piece of mozzarella, and a fresh basil leaf. Repeat this process until each skewer is assembled, finishing with a piece of chicken. You can make each skewer with 4-5 pieces of chicken, alternating with the other ingredients for a beautiful and balanced presentation.

4. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.

5. Grill the Skewers

Place the prepared skewers on the grill, making sure they are not overcrowded. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The mozzarella should begin to soften, and the tomatoes should be lightly charred and softened as well.

During the grilling process, you can baste the skewers with the remaining pesto for an extra layer of flavor. Just brush the pesto on the skewers a minute or two before removing them from the grill.

6. Serve the Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers

Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle with a little extra pesto for added flavor and garnish with fresh basil leaves. These skewers are best served warm, right off the grill, but can also be served at room temperature for a more casual presentation.

Tips for Perfect Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients plays a big role in the flavor of this dish. Use fresh chicken, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked, so be sure to monitor the grilling time and check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender.
• Customize the Pesto: If you want to change up the flavor of the pesto, you can try using different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or add extra garlic for a bolder flavor. You can also add a little lemon juice for a fresh, tangy twist.
• Use Skewers Wisely: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Metal skewers are a great alternative and can handle the heat more easily.
• Grill on High Heat: Cooking the skewers on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken cooks through quickly without overcooking, while also giving the vegetables a nice char and the mozzarella a soft, melty texture.
• Serve with Sides: Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations of Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers

• Grilled Shrimp Caprese Skewers: For a seafood twist, replace the chicken with shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in the pesto sauce and follow the same grilling instructions for a lighter, seafood option.
• Vegetarian Caprese Skewers: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based mozzarella for a vegan version of this dish.
• Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers: After grilling the skewers, drizzle them with balsamic glaze to add a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the pesto and mozzarella.
• Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers with Bacon: For an extra savory touch, add crispy bacon to the skewers. Wrap small pieces of bacon around the chicken or add bacon bits for a smoky flavor that enhances the pesto and mozzarella.
• Spicy Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers: Add a little heat to your skewers by mixing red pepper flakes into the pesto or brushing the skewers with a spicy sriracha or chili oil before grilling.

Storage and Shelf Life

Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but they can also be stored and enjoyed later:

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the skewers to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on a grill pan for a few minutes, being careful not to dry out the chicken.
• Freezing: While not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately (without the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil) for up to 1-2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then assemble the skewers with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers

Pair these skewers with a variety of delicious sides to complete your meal:

• Arugula Salad: A light, peppery arugula salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the savory, rich flavors of the skewers.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover pesto sauce for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair the skewers with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, for a healthy and colorful meal.
• Pasta: A simple pasta dish, such as spaghetti or penne with olive oil and garlic, is a great complement to the skewers.
• Risotto: A creamy risotto, like lemon or Parmesan risotto, pairs beautifully with the bright, herby flavors of the skewers.

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Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers are a delightful, flavorful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors in a simple and visually appealing way. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family dinner, or just craving something delicious, these skewers are sure to impress. With tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant pesto, each bite is a celebration of Italian-inspired flavors. Easy to prepare, quick to cook, and perfect for any occasion, Pesto Chicken Caprese Skewers will soon become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the vibrant, fresh flavors and share them with family and friends!