A perfect summer recipe, Chicken Caprese Skewers combine juicy bites of chicken with sweet grape tomatoes, all grilled to perfection. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions, from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties. The fresh homemade pesto and tangy balsamic glaze make these skewers truly stand out, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These skewers can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of grilled chicken, ripe tomatoes, and vibrant pesto creates a deliciously fresh taste that screams summer.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even at outdoor picnics; these skewers fit in anywhere.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from tomatoes and basil, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Impressive Presentation: The colorful skewers not only taste great but also look beautiful on the plate, impressing your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Chicken Caprese Skewers, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Grill
- Food processor
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Wooden or metal skewers: These are essential for threading your ingredients together. If using wooden ones, soaking them prevents burning on the grill.
- Grill: A good grill allows for even cooking and adds that desirable charred flavor to your skewers.
- Food processor: This tool makes preparing the pesto quick and easy by chopping all the ingredients uniformly.
- Basting brush: Use this to apply olive oil evenly over the skewers for enhanced flavor.
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 Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Caprese Skewers
Step 1: Soak Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least one hour before grilling. This reduces the risk of burning during cooking.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until it reaches about 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 3: Prepare Skewers
Thread pieces of chicken and grape tomatoes onto each skewer. Aim for about four pieces of chicken followed by three tomatoes per skewer.
Step 4: Season Chicken Skewers
Brush both sides of each skewer with olive oil (about 1 Tbsp). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 5: Grill Chicken Kebabs
Place the prepared skewers on the grill. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes per side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Make Pesto
While grilling, prepare the pesto by pulsing basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), garlic in a food processor until finely minced. Season with salt and pepper. With the food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until well combined.
Step 7: Finish Skewers
Once the kebabs are fully cooked, remove them from the grill. Thread one mozzarella ball onto each end of every skewer. Spoon pesto over the top of each kebab and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving warm.
How to Serve Chicken Caprese Skewers
Chicken Caprese Skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for a summer gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
With Fresh Salad
- Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the flavors of the skewers.
- Caprese Salad: Serve alongside sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction for a cohesive theme.
As Party Appetizers
- Mini Skewers: Create smaller versions using cocktail skewers for easy handling at parties.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer various dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for guests to enjoy with their skewers.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Meat and Cheese Platter: Incorporate Chicken Caprese Skewers into a charcuterie board with assorted cheeses and cured meats.
- Bread Selection: Add crusty bread or breadsticks as an accompaniment for a hearty snack.
How to Perfect Chicken Caprese Skewers
To achieve the best Chicken Caprese Skewers, consider these essential tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Bold Marination: Marinate chicken pieces in olive oil, salt, and herbs for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Even Cooking: Ensure chicken pieces are cut uniformly so they cook evenly on the grill.
- Moisture Control: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe tomatoes and fresh basil for vibrant flavor and presentation.
- Garnish Generously: Drizzle pesto and balsamic glaze generously before serving to make it visually appealing.
- Skewer Variety: Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for added color and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Caprese Skewers
Chicken Caprese Skewers pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement your meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, lightly seasoned and grilled until tender.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy bread brushed with garlic butter makes a delightful pairing that complements the flavors of the skewers.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made from quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese adds a healthy twist.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in Italian dressing adds heartiness and balances the meal’s lightness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm skewers.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness, making it an ideal summer side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Caprese Skewers can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to subpar results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring skewer soaking: If you use wooden skewers, always soak them for at least an hour. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Overcrowding the skewers: It’s tempting to pack everything tightly, but overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s a little space between each piece for even heat distribution.
- Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can make your Chicken Caprese Skewers bland. Season both the chicken and tomatoes well before grilling for better flavor.
- Not checking chicken doneness: To ensure food safety, always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to confirm this.
- Rushing the pesto: Making pesto too quickly can result in uneven texture. Pulse ingredients slowly in a food processor until finely chopped, then drizzle in olive oil gradually while blending.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Caprese Skewers
- Wrap individually in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Chicken Caprese Skewers
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chicken Caprese Skewers?
Chicken Caprese Skewers are delicious kebabs made with marinated chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil pesto. They are grilled to perfection and drizzled with balsamic glaze.
How do I customize my Chicken Caprese Skewers?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini between the chicken and tomatoes. You could also swap out mozzarella for other cheeses or use different herbs for the pesto.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for Chicken Caprese Skewers?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken is an option. Just thread it onto skewers with tomatoes and mozzarella, then grill briefly to warm everything up and add a charred flavor.
What should I serve with Chicken Caprese Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or pasta. You could also serve them at parties as an appetizer alongside dips.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Caprese Skewers are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor! Their versatility allows you to customize them easily based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick meal idea, these skewers are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try; you might just find your new favorite dish!
Chicken Caprese Skewers
Chicken Caprese Skewers are a delightful summer dish that brings together juicy chicken, sweet grape tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all grilled to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe showcases vibrant flavors with homemade pesto and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties. With under 30 minutes of prep time, these skewers are an ideal option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. The colorful presentation will impress your guests while the nutritious ingredients provide a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet healthy.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb grape tomatoes
- 1 package (8 oz) mozzarella balls
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (for pesto)
- Olive oil
- Balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least one hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 425°F).
- Thread chicken pieces and grape tomatoes onto skewers (4 chicken pieces and 3 tomatoes per skewer).
- Brush skewers with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
- Grill skewers for 4-6 minutes per side until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prepare pesto by blending basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
- Once cooked, add mozzarella balls to each end of the skewers; drizzle with pesto and balsamic glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg