Description
These Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or outdoor grilling. Marinated in fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, the chicken is juicy and charred to perfection on the grill. Served alongside a creamy, garlicky whipped ricotta dip, this recipe offers a delicious blend of herbs and tangy cheese that complements the tender grilled chicken beautifully.
Ingredients
For the 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)
For the 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 the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Whipped Ricotta: While the chicken marinates, add ricotta cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot enough to sear the chicken quickly and develop a nice char.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, making sure the pieces are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on one side until nicely charred, then flip and grill the other side for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and juices run clear.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skewers and arrange on a serving platter. Serve immediately with the garlicky whipped ricotta on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Soaking the wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) if time permits to enhance flavor.
- Use a food processor for the whipped ricotta to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper in the ricotta dip to your preference.
- This recipe can also be prepared on a grill pan if outdoor grilling is not available.
