Chicken Caprese Skewers

Published: August 10, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these skewers ready in no time.
Flavorful Experience: The combination of grilled chicken, fresh basil pesto, and tangy balsamic glaze creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, you can serve Chicken Caprese Skewers on various occasions.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh veggies, this dish makes for a wholesome meal choice.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Chicken Caprese Skewers, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Wooden or metal skewers
Grill
Food processor
Mixing bowl
Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: This tool helps quickly blend the pesto ingredients into a smooth sauce without much effort.
Grill: A grill imparts a wonderful smoky flavor to the chicken and vegetables while providing even cooking.

Ingredients

A perfect summer recipe! Bite size chicken pieces and cherry tomatoes are threaded onto skewers and cooked on a grill to give them a light fire kissed char, then you finish them off with fresh homemade pesto and a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.

For Chicken Skewers

1 3/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 lb. grape tomatoes
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 (8 oz) package mozzarella balls (drained)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Pesto Sauce

2 cups (40g) slightly packed fresh basil leaves
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)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Caprese Skewers

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers soak in water for at least 1 hour. It’s best to soak them overnight to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until it reaches about 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread pieces of chicken and grape tomatoes onto each skewer. Aim for four pieces of chicken followed by three tomatoes per skewer.

Step 4: Season the Skewers

Brush both sides of each skewer with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Generously season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Kebabs

Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Prepare the Pesto Sauce

While grilling, make your pesto. In a food processor, pulse together basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), and minced garlic until finely chopped.

Step 7: Blend in Olive Oil

With the food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve Your Skewers

Once cooked through, remove kebabs from the grill. Thread one mozzarella ball onto each end of every skewer. Spoon fresh pesto over kebabs and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Caprese Skewers!

How to Serve Chicken Caprese Skewers

Chicken Caprese Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can pair them with a variety of sides or dips to enhance the meal. Here are some serving suggestions that will delight your guests.

With Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and radicchio with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
Caprese Salad: Pair with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze to complement the skewers.

Alongside Dips

Pesto Dip: Serve extra homemade pesto on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
Balsamic Reduction: A small bowl of balsamic glaze allows guests to drizzle more over their skewers.

As Part of a Platter

Charcuterie Board: Include your Chicken Caprese Skewers on a board filled with cheeses, olives, and cured meats for a vibrant appetizer spread.
Grilled Veggie Platter: Complement with grilled zucchini, peppers, and asparagus for a colorful touch.

How to Perfect Chicken Caprese Skewers

To achieve the best Chicken Caprese Skewers, follow these essential tips. They will help elevate your dish and ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes bring vibrant flavors that enhance the overall dish.
Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring even cooking.
Preheat the Grill: A hot grill sears the chicken quickly, locking in juices and flavor for juicy results.
Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm that chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain moisture.
Experiment with Marinades: Try marinating the chicken beforehand for added flavor; simple olive oil and lemon juice work well.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Caprese Skewers

Pairing your Chicken Caprese Skewers with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options you might consider serving alongside.

Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto or balsamic glaze.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and herbs adds a nutritious touch to your meal.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty element that pairs nicely with grilled chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a delightful crunch that complements the skewers.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make an excellent low-carb option.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the savory skewers with sweetness, perfect for summer dining.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Caprese Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking wooden skewers can lead to burning during grilling. Always soak them for at least 1 hour before use.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too much chicken and tomatoes on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Keep a balanced ratio, ideally 4 pieces of chicken and 3 tomatoes per skewer.
Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland skewers. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature can cause the chicken to dry out. Aim for a medium-high heat of about 425 degrees for perfect grilling.
Not Checking Doneness: Cooking without checking the internal temperature could lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees in the center.

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Chicken Caprese Skewers in an airtight container.
They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Caprese Skewers

You can freeze uncooked skewers before grilling.
Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; they will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Caprese Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Place skewers on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, checking frequently.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chicken Caprese Skewers?

Chicken Caprese Skewers are grilled kebabs made with chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil pesto, finished with balsamic glaze.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like feta or provolone for varied flavors.

How do I customize my Chicken Caprese Skewers?

You can customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or even marinating the chicken in your favorite flavors before grilling.

What’s the best way to serve Chicken Caprese Skewers?

Serve them warm as an appetizer or alongside pasta salad for a delightful summer meal.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Caprese Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile! This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dipping sauces to make it truly your own! Don’t hesitate—try this delightful dish today!

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