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There is something irresistibly joyful about the way fresh basil and garlic elevate simple grilled chicken, and that magic truly shines in this Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken morsels marinated to perfection and grilled with care, paired with a luscious whipped ricotta sauce infused with garlic and lemon, create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any gathering or cozy dinner. This recipe effortlessly turns everyday ingredients into a vibrant plate that feels both fresh and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From fragrant basil to creamy ricotta, every component harmonizes beautifully to make these skewers shine.
- Chicken breast (1 lb): The star protein that’s juicy and tender when grilled just right.
- Olive oil (3 tbsp total): Adds richness and helps with marinating and creating a silky ricotta texture.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides that punchy, aromatic depth both in the marinade and whipped ricotta.
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup chopped plus garnish): Brings a bright, fresh herbal note that wakes up the dish.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp total): Offers a zesty brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor nuance.
- Wooden skewers (soaked 30 minutes): Key for grilling and holding your skewers safely without burning.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creates the creamy, dreamy base of the garlicky whipped ricotta dipping sauce.
How to Make Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This simple marinade infuses the chicken with brightness and herbaceous notes that will sing once grilled. Letting it sit for at least 15 minutes — or even a couple hours — makes every bite flavorful and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta
While your chicken marinates, blend the ricotta cheese with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Whip it until it’s luxuriously smooth and creamy. This sauce is a showstopper on its own, with its garlicky warmth and citrusy zing, perfectly complementing the smoky grilled chicken.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers carefully, making sure the pieces are evenly spaced for even cooking and that the skewers won’t burn on the grill.
Step 4: Grill Until Perfectly Charred
Grill the chicken skewers for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful char and fully cooked chicken that stays juicy on the inside. The combination of the marinade and the heat creates a mouthwatering crust that locks in flavor.
Step 5: Serve with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the skewers and arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Spoon generous dollops of that silky garlicky whipped ricotta alongside for dipping. This is the moment where the bold, fragrant chicken meets creamy, bright accompaniment — pure joy on a plate.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Finish by scattering extra torn fresh basil on top for an added burst of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve immediately to enjoy the full spectrum of textures and flavors your work has created.
How to Serve Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves provide a lovely aromatic touch and vibrant green color, adding a fresh lift to your plate. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the ricotta can also add a silky sheen and richness that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or a simple lemony quinoa salad to keep things light and fresh. For something heartier, roasted vegetables or a garlic butter rice pilaf balance the flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these skewers on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of the whipped ricotta and assorted fresh veggies for a vibrant tapas-style spread. Or place skewers standing upright in a tall glass for a playful presentation that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover grilled chicken skewers and whipped ricotta separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them apart maintains the best texture for each component.
Freezing
While fresh is best here, cooked skewers can be frozen if necessary. Place them in a freezer-safe container tightly sealed and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the skewers on a grill pan or under a broiler briefly to regain some crispness without drying out. Whipped ricotta is best served cold or at room temperature, so no need to reheat the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a richer flavor, so they’d work wonderfully with this Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the ricotta?
You can try a cashew-based cheese or a plant-based ricotta substitute to keep it vegan-friendly. Just blend with the garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice similarly for a creamy dip that keeps the spirit of the original sauce.
How long can I marinate the chicken for best flavor?
A minimum of 15 minutes works well, but marinating for up to 2 hours allows the flavors to deepen and tenderize the chicken even more, making every bite more flavorful.
Can I cook the skewers indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Yes! A grill pan or even a broiler works perfectly. Just keep an eye on them to get a good sear and avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have fresh basil on hand?
Fresh basil really makes the dish sing, but if you can only find dried, use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated. Fresh herbs provide the bright, fresh character that defines this Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both special and approachable, making it perfect for weeknights or entertaining friends. The combination of fresh herbs, bright lemon, and luscious ricotta makes every bite memorable. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with how easy and delicious it is to bring bold, fresh flavors to the table.
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Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or summer cookout. Tender chicken pieces marinated in fresh basil, garlic, and lemon juice are grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, garlicky whipped ricotta dip that adds a luscious, tangy complement to the smoky grilled meat.
Ingredients
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)
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 Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare Whipped Ricotta: While the chicken marinates, add the ricotta cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to get it ready for cooking the skewers.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, distributing the pieces evenly.
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, turning once, until the chicken is fully cooked through and develops a nice charred exterior.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skewers and arrange on a serving platter. Serve alongside the garlicky whipped ricotta for dipping.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle additional fresh basil over the dish for a fresh herbal touch and serve immediately.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Marinating the chicken longer will intensify the flavors.
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for juicier results.
- The whipped ricotta can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Ensure the grill is hot before placing the skewers to get a good sear.
