Fresh Pesto Chicken Skewers
These Fresh Pesto Chicken Skewers are tender, juicy, and bursting with vibrant herbaceous flavors. The homemade pesto marinade infuses the chicken with a mix of basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, giving each bite a fresh, Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 30–60 minutes (optional for extra flavor)
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 27–30 minutes (excluding marination)
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
6–8 wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water 30 minutes)
For the Fresh Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as alternative)
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)
Instructions
1. Make the Pesto:
In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pulse until finely chopped.
Slowly add olive oil while blending until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place chicken cubes in a bowl and toss with 3–4 tablespoons of pesto.
Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for deeper flavor.
3. Assemble Skewers:
Thread the chicken cubes evenly onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers:
Oven: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until chicken reaches 75°C (165°F) and is lightly golden.
Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through with a light char.
5. Serve:
Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh basil or Parmesan if desired. These skewers pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted veggies, or over a bed of rice or quinoa.
Tips & Notes
Marination: For best flavor, marinate chicken for at least 1 hour, but even 15–20 minutes works for a quick meal.
Nut-Free Option: Skip pine nuts or use sunflower seeds if allergic.
Vegetable Skewers: Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful veggie combo.
Storage: Cooked skewers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this with chicken tenders?
A: Yes! They cook faster (8–10 minutes) and remain juicy.
Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the quantity to taste and use about 3–4 tablespoons for marinating.
Q: Can I freeze these skewers?
A: Yes. Marinate and thread the chicken, then freeze uncooked skewers. Bake or grill directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to cooking time.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 32g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 460mg