If you are craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and creamy indulgence, you are going to adore this Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe. Imagine juicy, tender chicken pieces marinated in fragrant basil and garlic, grilled to perfection, and paired with a luscious, garlicky whipped ricotta that elevates every bite. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels fancy yet is incredibly simple to pull off any night of the week. The harmony of herbs, citrus, and creamy cheese invites a celebration of taste and texture that you won’t soon forget.

Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients lined up is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in turning these skewers into a flavor-packed sensation. From the herbaceous basil that brings brightness to the juicy chicken, to the creamy ricotta that adds a smooth, tangy finish, every component is essential to this recipe’s charm.

1 lb chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even grilling and easy eating.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that savory punch that defines the marinade.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and balances the richness with acidity.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Wooden skewers: Soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
For the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta:
1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, perfect for whipping up a luscious dipping sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds silkiness and richness to the ricotta.
1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the whipped ricotta with a gentle garlic warmth.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Provides a zesty lift that balances the creaminess.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the delicate flavors in the ricotta.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice and complexity.
Fresh basil, for garnish: Finishing touch that ties all the flavors together visually and aromatically.

How to Make Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First things first, toss your bite-sized chicken pieces into a large bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix so every piece is thoughtfully coated. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes allows all those fresh flavors to infuse deeply, making every bite more delicious. If you have extra time, letting it rest for up to two hours will only ramp up the flavor complexity and juiciness.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta

As your chicken marinates, it’s the perfect moment to whip up the star dipping sauce. Combine ricotta cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a food processor or blender. Whiz until it’s luxuriously smooth and creamy. Taste and tweak the seasoning as needed. This whipped ricotta brings an irresistible creaminess with a kiss of garlic and citrus that perfectly complements the grilled chicken.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Your Grill

Get your grill or grill pan hot, heating it to a medium-high temperature. This heat level will give the chicken those beautiful grill marks and a slight char without drying it out. Meanwhile, thread the marinated chicken pieces delicately onto the soaked wooden skewers. The soaking is important—it helps prevent the skewers from catching fire, so keep that in mind if you forgot to soak them earlier!

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. You’re aiming for fully cooked chicken with a nice caramelized edge. Keep an eye on them, turning once halfway through to ensure even cooking and to lock in all those lovely marinade flavors. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a perfect smoky backdrop.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once grilled, remove the chicken from the skewers and arrange the pieces on a beautiful platter. Dollop or pipe the garlicky whipped ricotta alongside for dipping. Before diving in, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for an eye-catching and aromatic finish. This final touch brings the whole dish together and invites everyone to dig in.

How to Serve Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of fresh basil leaves scattered on top breathes fresh life into this dish while a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds sheen and richness. If you want a little heat kick, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully. These garnishes not only add flavor but also make the presentation pop with color.

Side Dishes

These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or a vibrant summer salad to keep things light and fresh. For a heartier meal, a warm quinoa salad or herbed couscous can turn this into a complete feast. The creamy garlicky ricotta also works well as a spread on warm pita bread alongside the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive meal, serve the chicken skewers on a wooden board with bowls of the garlicky whipped ricotta and lemon wedges so everyone can customize their bites. Another fun idea is to build mini chicken and ricotta pita wraps topped with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil—perfect for parties or casual gatherings that feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the poultry separate from the ricotta dip to maintain the best texture and flavor integrity.

Freezing

These grilled chicken skewers freeze well when individually wrapped and placed in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. The garlicky whipped ricotta is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days; freezing is not recommended for the ricotta as the texture will change.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, warm gently in a baking dish covered with foil at 350°F until heated through (about 10 minutes) or briefly on the grill to revive that fresh grilled flavor. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out. Serve chilled or at room temperature with fresh whipped ricotta.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for this Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken breast is light and quick to grill, you can substitute with thighs for a juicier option or even use shrimp for a delicious twist. Just adjust grilling times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

The recipe calls for a minimum of 15 minutes, which is enough for a noticeable flavor boost. However, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will make the chicken even more tender and flavorful. Avoid marinating longer than 4 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the meat too much.

Is it necessary to soak the wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning or catching fire. If you forget, you can carefully wrap the ends with aluminum foil as a backup method.

Can I prepare the garlicky whipped ricotta ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container. Just give it a quick stir before serving to bring back its creamy texture.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?

No worries! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a regular heavy-bottomed skillet on the stovetop. Just watch closely and turn frequently to get a nice char without burning.

Final Thoughts

This Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it strikes the perfect balance between fresh, flavorful, and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that invites connection—whether served at a lively backyard gathering or a quiet dinner at home. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love the combination of smoky grilled chicken with that irresistibly creamy, garlicky ricotta dip. Bon appétit!