Name: Caprese Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 lb grape tomatoes; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 8 oz mozzarella balls (drained); Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 3 Tbsp store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze; 2 cups slightly packed fresh basil leaves ((40g)); 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))

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When summer rolls around, my cravings shift to light, fresh meals like Caprese Chicken Kebabs. Just the sight of vibrant tomatoes and fragrant basil brings back memories of sunny BBQs with friends. There’s something incredibly satisfying about skewering juicy pieces of chicken, ripe tomatoes, and mozzarella, then watching them sizzle on the grill. It’s the perfect dish for those warm evenings when you want to enjoy the outdoors and savor every bite. I always find myself eagerly waiting for those kebabs to finish cooking, the aroma filling the air and making my mouth water. Pairing these with a homemade basil pesto and a drizzle of balsamic glaze elevates this dish to something truly special. Every bite is a celebration of summer flavors, and it’s so easy to make!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Food Processor

The Charm of This Caprese Chicken Kebabs

Flavorful and Fresh Ingredients

One of the standout features of Caprese Chicken Kebabs is how fresh ingredients shine through. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet grape tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella delivers a satisfying taste that’s simply irresistible. Each component plays a vital role, bringing out the best in one another, making every bite a delightful experience.

Quick and Simple Preparation

I love that this dish requires minimal prep time. Just a few simple steps, and you’re on your way to enjoying a delicious meal. Skewering the ingredients is a fun activity that can even involve the kids, making cooking a family affair!

Perfect for Grilling

There’s something magical about grilling. The chicken gets beautifully charred while remaining tender and juicy on the inside, and the tomatoes burst with flavor. Plus, it’s the ideal recipe for summer gatherings. You can easily double the recipe for larger crowds, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying these kebabs fresh off the grill.

Endless Variations

Another reason to love Caprese Chicken Kebabs is their versatility. Whether you want to add more vegetables, switch up the cheese, or even experiment with different marinades, the possibilities are endless. It’s a recipe that can evolve with the seasons, allowing you to enjoy it year-round.

Health Conscious

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s healthy too! Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the basil and tomatoes, it’s a guilt-free option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re a fan of meal prep, these kebabs are perfect! You can make a big batch ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and simply heat them up when you’re ready to eat. They make for a quick lunch or dinner during the busy week.

Ingredient List for Caprese Chicken Kebabs

The ingredients for Caprese Chicken Kebabs are a beautiful representation of summer. Fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Each ingredient compliments the others, making this a well-rounded meal that’s bursting with flavor.

1 3/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing protein and substance.
1 lb grape tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these add a burst of flavor and color.
1 Tbsp olive oil: Used for brushing the skewers, enhancing flavor and ensuring a nice grill char.
1 (8 oz) package mozzarella balls, drained: Creamy and rich, these complement the other ingredients perfectly.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
3 Tbsp store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze: Adds a sweet and tangy note, elevating the dish.
2 cups (40g) slightly packed fresh basil leaves: The aromatic herb that brings everything together.
3 Tbsp finely shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a salty richness.
2 Tbsp pine nuts or chopped walnuts: For a crunchy texture contrast.
1 large garlic clove, minced (1 1/2 tsp): Gives a depth of flavor to the kebabs.
1/3 cup olive oil (regular or extra virgin): Drizzled for flavor and moisture.

How to Make Caprese Chicken Kebabs

Making Caprese Chicken Kebabs is both fun and rewarding! It’s a simple process, and the result is a beautifully colorful dish that tastes as good as it looks. Follow these steps to get perfect kebabs every time.

Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour, or even overnight if you can. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 425 degrees. This high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect char.
Now it’s time to assemble! Thread pieces of chicken and grape tomatoes onto your skewers. I usually go for 4 pieces of chicken and 3 tomatoes per skewer, alternating between them.
Brush both sides of the skewers with 1 Tbsp of olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent sticking. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side. You’ll want to grill until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
While the kebabs are grilling, let’s prepare the basil pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse several times until everything is minced.
With the food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until the mixture is well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the kebabs are cooked through, remove them from the grill. Now, it’s time to finish them off! Thread one mozzarella ball onto each end of the skewer.
Generously spoon the prepared pesto over the kebabs, letting the vibrant green sauce coat the chicken and tomatoes.
Finally, drizzle with balsamic glaze for that sweet and tangy finish. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Soaking skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour before using. This prevents them from burning during grilling.
Grill temperature: Ensuring your grill is hot enough will give the kebabs that perfect char and prevent sticking.
Ingredient quality: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your kebabs significantly.
Pesto consistency: When making the pesto, adjust the olive oil to your desired consistency. It should be smooth but not too runny.
Meal prep: These kebabs can be made ahead and stored. They reheat well and make for a great lunch option!

Tips and Tricks about Caprese Chicken Kebabs

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Caprese Chicken Kebabs turn out perfectly every time!

Storage: Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll remain delicious and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked kebabs. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
Pairing: These kebabs pair beautifully with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Flavor boost: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite herb-infused olive oil before skewering.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for variety.
Serving style: Serve the kebabs with extra balsamic glaze and pesto on the side for dipping.

What Complements This Caprese Chicken Kebabs

Grilled vegetables: Pair these kebabs with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Light salads: A fresh garden salad or a simple arugula salad can be a refreshing side dish.
Summer parties: These kebabs are perfect for backyard BBQs and summer gatherings. They’re easy to make in large batches!
Lunch option: Leftover kebabs make for a great lunch. Serve them over a bed of greens for a quick meal.
Seasonal pairings: As summer brings ripe tomatoes and basil, this dish shines. Enjoy it when these ingredients are at their peak.
Storage tips: Always keep any leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat gently to keep the chicken moist.

FAQ

Grilling chicken for Caprese Chicken Kebabs can be straightforward. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat at about 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for achieving a nice char while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Grill the kebabs for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Make sure to turn them halfway for even cooking. Additionally, brushing the chicken with a little olive oil before grilling helps to keep it moist and adds flavor.

Absolutely! The beauty of Caprese Chicken Kebabs is their versatility. While the traditional recipe features tomatoes and basil, you can easily incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even red onion. Just keep in mind that different vegetables might require slight adjustments in cooking times. For instance, firmer vegetables like bell peppers may need a little longer to cook than chicken and tomatoes. Feel free to experiment and create your perfect kebab!

Leftover Caprese Chicken Kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their flavor and moisture, it’s best to refrigerate them whole, rather than separating the components. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can either eat them cold or reheat them gently in the microwave or on a skillet. Just be cautious not to overcook them when reheating, as this can lead to dry chicken.

Yes, you can definitely prepare Caprese Chicken Kebabs ahead of time! To do this, assemble the kebabs and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. It’s best to marinate the chicken beforehand to infuse more flavor. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the pesto in advance. Just keep it stored in a sealed container in the fridge. This way, when it’s time for your meal, you can simply grill the skewers and enjoy!

Conclusion

The Caprese Chicken Kebabs are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer. With juicy chicken, fresh basil, and sweet tomatoes, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for gatherings. I encourage you to try making them at home, whether for a family dinner or a weekend BBQ. You’ll find that these kebabs bring everyone together, making meal times a joyful occasion.