Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

These ultra easy Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are perfect for a quick and tasty summer dinner. With just five ingredients, they deliver a burst of flavor that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight meal, these kabobs fit the bill. Their vibrant taste and low-carb profile make them an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe requires only 20 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of lemon and pesto creates a zesty marinade that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these kabobs on their own or serve them with your favorite sides like salads or grilled vegetables.
• Low-Carb Delight: With minimal carbohydrates, these kabobs are perfect for those following a low-carb diet.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Easy to make in larger quantities, these kabobs are sure to please guests at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smoother, having the right tools is essential. Gather these items before you start your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziploc bag or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid
• Skewers (blade-type or double skewers)
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill provides even heat distribution, ensuring your kabobs cook perfectly.
• Ziploc bag or plastic container: These allow for easy marinating, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated well.
• Skewers: Using the right type of skewers prevents the chicken from spinning, making grilling easier.

Ingredients

These ultra easy Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are delicious and this recipe needs just five ingredients for a perfect low-carb summer dinner.

For the Chicken Kabobs

• 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

How to Make Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Trim visible fat and undesirable parts from chicken breasts.
2. Cut each breast in half lengthwise, then into 2-inch pieces.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a bowl, mix together the vinaigrette dressing, basil pesto, lemon juice, and Spike Seasoning.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place chicken pieces into a Ziploc bag or plastic container with a lid.
2. Add the marinade mixture and turn over until chicken is well-coated.
3. Allow to marinate in the fridge for 8-10 hours (or longer if desired).

Step 4: Prepare to Grill

1. Drain chicken pieces into a colander placed in the sink.
2. Let chicken come to room temperature, discarding the marinade.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

1. Brush or spray grill with high smoke-point oil or non-stick spray.
2. Preheat grill to medium heat.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers tightly together to prevent spinning during grilling.
4. Grill chicken for about 15 minutes, turning often until lightly browned and firm but not hard.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your delicious Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs hot from the grill! Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your summer feasts!

How to Serve Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

These Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs make a flavorful addition to your meal.

With Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing pairs perfectly with the grilled flavors.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance the kabobs.

In Wraps or Sandwiches

• Pita Pockets: Stuff warm pita bread with chicken kabobs, lettuce, and tzatziki sauce for a tasty meal.
• Tortilla Wraps: Add kabobs to a tortilla with avocado and mixed greens for a quick wrap.
• Baguette Sandwiches: Layer sliced chicken on a baguette with roasted peppers and arugula.

As Part of a Platter

• Grilled Vegetable Platter: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for color and flavor.
• Charcuterie Board: Include kabobs on a charcuterie board with cheeses, olives, and nuts for variety.

How to Perfect Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality pesto will make your kabobs taste exceptional.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the chicken; this prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
• Cut Uniform Pieces: Cutting chicken into equal sizes ensures they cook evenly on the grill.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Space out the chicken pieces slightly to allow heat circulation for better grilling.
• Let Rest After Cooking: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps it juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter complements the flavors beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies is nutritious and adds texture.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and complements the grilled chicken well.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers an excellent contrast to savory kabobs.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a comforting base for your meal.
7. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds brightness and pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to overlook a few steps that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade Time – Not allowing the chicken to marinate for 8-10 hours can result in bland kabobs. Always plan ahead and give the flavors time to infuse.
• Using Cold Chicken – Grilling cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to let your chicken come to room temperature before grilling for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the Skewers – Packing too much chicken on skewers can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space between pieces for heat circulation.
• Not Preheating the Grill – Failing to preheat your grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before placing kabobs on it.
• Ignoring Doneness – Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

• For longer storage, freeze kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade pesto for Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs?

Yes, homemade pesto adds a personal touch and fresh flavor! Just ensure it’s well-balanced with lemon juice.

How do I know when my Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are done?

Check that the chicken is firm and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.

What side dishes pair well with Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs?

Great sides include grilled vegetables, salad, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Can I make Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and assemble the kabobs ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers. This recipe is perfect for summer grilling and is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try!