If you are on the lookout for a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress, this Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chicken thighs infused with the bright, herbaceous notes of pesto pair beautifully with juicy cherry tomatoes, creating a harmony of colors and tastes that sing with every bite. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking in your oven, these kabobs offer a juicy, smoky, and fresh experience that feels like a celebration on a skewer. Let me walk you through this delightful recipe that’s quickly become a favorite in my kitchen and will soon be in yours too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and eye-catching color. Each element plays a distinct role, making your cooking experience straightforward and your results delicious.
- 1 cup pesto: Whether homemade or store-bought, pesto is the flavor powerhouse that brings herby richness and a hint of garlic to the kabobs.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that holds marinades well and doesn’t dry out quickly during cooking.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and burst of juice perfectly complement the savory pesto-marinated chicken.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the ingredients.
How to Make Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your cubed chicken thighs in a large Ziploc bag or bowl, then coat them evenly with pesto. This step infuses each bite with that irresistible blend of basil, garlic, and pine nuts. Marinating for at least 30 minutes is essential, but allowing the flavors to develop overnight takes it to another level entirely.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
After marination, drain any excess pesto to avoid flare-ups on the grill. Alternate threading the tender chicken pieces and vibrant cherry tomatoes onto your skewers – this not only ensures every bite has a bit of everything but also creates a stunning visual contrast that’s almost too good to eat.
Step 3: Season and Preheat
Lightly season the arranged kabobs with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to bring out the natural flavors. Then, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is perfect for achieving that beautiful sear and juicy interior.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Grill your kabobs for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally for an even cook and beautifully charred grill marks. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe and juicy. If you prefer indoor cooking, bake the kabobs at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through, for almost the same delicious results.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, serve the kabobs hot off the grill or out of the oven, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if you like for a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma that ties the dish together perfectly.
How to Serve Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra dimension of flavor. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds a silky finish that complements the pesto’s richness.
Side Dishes
These kabobs pair beautifully with a light side like a mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or you could offer a Mediterranean couscous or garlic-roasted baby potatoes to round out the meal. The possibilities are endless because the kabobs’ bold flavors balance both crisp and hearty accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the kabobs on a wooden board lined with fresh basil leaves, or stand them upright in a tall glass for a fun party presentation. You might also thread the kabobs over a bed of arugula or alongside grilled vegetable medleys to create a colorful feast that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy the next day or as a quick lunch option.
Freezing
If you want to save the kabobs for longer, you can freeze them by placing each kabob on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freezing until solid, then storing in freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the kabobs on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, use a skillet over medium heat, turning carefully to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast if you prefer, but thighs remain juicier and more forgiving during cooking, especially on the grill.
Is store-bought pesto as good as homemade for this recipe?
Store-bought pesto works wonderfully and makes this recipe super convenient. However, homemade pesto offers fresher, brighter flavors if you have the time.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before using?
Absolutely! Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning during cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, try marinating firm tofu or halloumi cheese in the pesto and grilling with cherry tomatoes for a similar flavor experience.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also appear opaque and juices should run clear.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe is truly a gem that brings simple ingredients together to create a dish bursting with freshness, color, and mouthwatering flavor. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering, these kabobs never fail to deliver satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a beloved staple in your home as it is in mine!
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Chicken Pesto Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Chicken Pesto Kabobs are a flavorful and easy-to-make meal featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in vibrant pesto and skewered with juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for grilling or baking, they deliver a savory Mediterranean-inspired taste that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 cup pesto, homemade or store-bought
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 ¼-inch cubes
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Chicken and Pesto: In a gallon-size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine the chicken thigh cubes with the pesto sauce, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator, turning occasionally to keep the flavor evenly distributed.
- Prepare for Cooking: Before cooking, drain off any excess pesto from the chicken to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces and cherry tomatoes alternately onto skewers, creating evenly spaced kabobs.
- Season: Lightly season the assembled kabobs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a perfect sear on the kabobs.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
- Bake Alternative: If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the kabobs for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once halfway through the cooking time for even doneness.
- Serve: Serve the kabobs hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, for a delicious and colorful presentation.
Notes
- You can use wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- For added flavor, you can brush the kabobs with additional pesto during grilling or before baking.
- Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and moisture but can be swapped out with bell peppers or zucchini for variety.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee safety.
