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
Scale
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.
