These Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are the perfect blend of flavor and simplicity, making them an excellent choice for any summer gathering or weeknight dinner. With just five ingredients, this recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy grilled chicken. The light and zesty lemon combined with rich basil pesto ensures each bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, they are low-carb, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can have these kabobs marinating in no time.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lemon juice and basil pesto creates a unique taste that elevates grilled chicken.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these kabobs with a side salad, rice, or enjoy them on their own for a satisfying meal.
- Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those watching their carb intake without sacrificing taste.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking on skewers makes for easy serving and cleanup after your meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skewers
- Ziploc bag or plastic container
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the ideal cooking method for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Skewers: Make it easy to turn and cook all pieces of chicken evenly.
- Ziploc bag or plastic container: Helps in marinating the chicken thoroughly without mess.
- Colander: Drains excess marinade effectively before grilling.
Ingredients
These ultra easy Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are delicious, requiring just five ingredients for a perfect low-carb summer dinner.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing
- 1/3 cup purchased basil pesto (see notes)
- 3 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice (see notes)
- 1 T Spike Seasoning, or another all-purpose seasoning blend
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Trim visible fat and undesirable parts from chicken breasts. Cut each breast in half lengthwise and then into 2-inch pieces.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
Mix together vinaigrette dressing, basil pesto, lemon juice, and Spike Seasoning.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Put the pieces of chicken into a Ziploc bag or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Add the marinade mixture. Turn over the bag or container until the chicken is coated with the marinade.
Step 4: Refrigerate
Let chicken pieces marinate in the fridge for 8-10 hours (or longer if desired).
Step 5: Prepare to Grill
When ready to cook, drain the chicken pieces into a colander placed in the sink. Let chicken come to room temperature while discarding the marinade.
Step 6: Preheat Your Grill
Brush or spray your grill with high smoke-point oil or non-stick spray. Preheat grill to medium heat.
Step 7: Assemble Skewers
Thread chicken onto skewers. If you don’t have blade-type skewers or double skewers for kabobs, be sure to push the chicken tightly together so it won’t spin around when turning.
Step 8: Grill Chicken Kabobs
Grill chicken about 15 minutes, turning often, until lightly browned and firm but not hard to touch.
Step 9: Serve Hot
Enjoy your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs hot off the grill!
How to Serve Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
Serving Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs can elevate your summer dining experience. These flavorful kabobs are versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance their taste.
Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Quickly grill these veggies alongside the kabobs for a colorful plate.
- Asparagus: Toss with olive oil and sea salt before grilling for a delicious side.
Dipping Sauces
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: A tangy dip that complements the bright flavors of the chicken.
- Tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and dill.
Rice or Grain Bowl
- Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with herbs and lemon for a nutritious grain dish.
- Couscous: Fluff couscous with lemon zest and parsley for a quick side.
How to Perfect Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
To achieve the best results with your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs, follow these simple tips. They will ensure your kabobs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and homemade pesto will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors even more.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough to create a nice sear on the chicken.
- Avoid Overcrowding Skewers: Leave space between pieces on skewers to promote even cooking.
- Turn Frequently: Rotate kabobs every few minutes for consistent grilling on all sides.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
Pairing sides with your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs can enhance their flavor while creating a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a crunchy element.
- Coleslaw: A cool, tangy slaw balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad: This dish combines couscous with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for added freshness.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes when grilled to perfection.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to savory kabobs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marination Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 8 hours can result in bland kabobs. Make sure to plan ahead for maximum flavor.
- Using Cold Chicken: Cooking cold chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your chicken come to room temperature before grilling.
- Inadequate Skewering: If the chicken is not tightly packed on the skewers, it may spin while grilling, causing uneven cooking. Ensure pieces are snug against each other on the skewers.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to sticking and improper cooking. Preheat your grill to medium heat for best results.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Keeping an eye on your kabobs is crucial; overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for a firm but tender texture by checking frequently.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Freeze uncooked marinated chicken up to 3 months.
- Label with date and type for easy identification.
Reheating Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake kabobs for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook kabobs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade pesto for Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs?
Yes, homemade pesto works beautifully! Just ensure it has a strong basil flavor that complements the lemon.
How long should I marinate my chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least 8-10 hours allows flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing taste and tenderness.
What sides pair well with Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs?
Consider serving alongside grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Can I make these kabobs in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate and assemble them beforehand, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize your kabobs with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences! Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find it’s a delightful addition to your grilling repertoire.
Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs
Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are a delightful and simple dish that perfectly blends zesty lemon with rich basil pesto, creating a flavorful experience ideal for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. With just five key ingredients and minimal prep time, these kabobs deliver juicy chicken infused with vibrant flavors. They’re low-carb and versatile, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether served with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or your favorite grain, these kabobs promise to be a hit at any meal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup Newman's Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Spike Seasoning
Instructions
- Trim and cut chicken breasts into 2-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, mix together dressing, basil pesto, lemon juice, and seasoning.
- Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least 8 hours in a Ziploc bag.
- Drain the marinated chicken before grilling.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook skewered chicken for about 15 minutes, turning frequently until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg