Description
Make simple, flavorful pesto chicken caprese skewers perfect for grilling as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup prepared basil pesto sauce
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 8 oz small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if grilling)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Place the cubed chicken in a medium bowl. Add the pesto sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is fully coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Assemble the skewers by alternating the marinated chicken cubes, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls onto the skewers. Aim for 3-4 pieces of chicken per skewer.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Alternatively, you can bake the skewers at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or cook in an air fryer at 380°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the skewers from the heat. Arrange them on a serving platter.
- If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use good quality pesto; homemade pesto adds superior flavor.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute half of the pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto.
- These skewers can be prepared ahead of time by assembling them completely and storing them covered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 18
- Cholesterol: 55