Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

These ultra easy Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful, low-carb summer dinner. With just five ingredients, this recipe is perfect for barbecue gatherings or quick weeknight meals. The combination of lemon and pesto adds a zesty twist to the tender chicken, making it an instant favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up these kabobs for any occasion.
• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of lemon juice and basil pesto creates an irresistible marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
• Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a low-carb diet, these kabobs offer all the taste without the extra carbs.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a main dish or slice them up for salads and wraps.
• Grill Friendly: Ideal for outdoor grilling, these kabobs make summer cookouts a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth preparation experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Skewers (blade-type skewers are recommended)
• Ziploc bag or plastic container with lid
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the necessary heat to achieve that perfect char on your kabobs.
• Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken pieces together while they cook evenly.
• Ziploc bag or plastic container: Makes marinating easy and mess-free.
• Colander: Helps drain excess marinade before grilling, ensuring your chicken has that nice sear.

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 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Make the Marinade

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

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Put the chicken pieces into a Ziploc bag or plastic container. Pour in the marinade mixture. Seal tightly and turn over until all pieces are coated.

Step 4: Chill in Fridge

Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 8-10 hours to absorb all those flavors. Longer is fine if you have time!

Step 5: Prepare for Grilling

When ready to cook, drain the chicken in a colander and let it come to room temperature. Discard any leftover marinade.

Step 6: Preheat the Grill

Brush or spray your grill with high smoke-point oil or non-stick spray. Preheat your grill to medium heat.

Step 7: Thread onto Skewers

Carefully thread pieces of chicken onto skewers. If using regular skewers, push the pieces tightly together so they don’t spin while cooking.

Step 8: Grill the Kabobs

Place kabobs on the grill. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning often until lightly browned and firm but not hard to touch.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Once cooked through, serve your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs hot off the grill! Enjoy!

How to Serve Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

Serving Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs is a delightful experience. These kabobs are flavorful and versatile, making them perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese complements the kabobs beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a perfect contrast to the tender chicken.

Serve with Grains

• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with the lemon and pesto.
• Brown Rice: A hearty option that can soak up any extra marinade drippings from the kabobs.

Add Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt-based sauce enhances the flavors of the kabobs while adding a refreshing element.
• Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant herb sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor to your grilled chicken.

Include Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilled alongside the kabobs, these veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the zesty flavors of the lemon pesto perfectly.

How to Perfect Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil pesto and lemon juice will elevate the flavors of your kabobs significantly.
• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 8 hours or overnight.
• Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking on the grill.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the kabobs for optimal searing and flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave some space between chicken pieces on skewers for even cooking and better browning.
• Rest Before Serving: Let cooked kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

Complementing your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs with delicious sides can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideal side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with grilled flavors.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness to your plate.
3. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs offers a delightful Mediterranean flair.
4. Cucumber Tomato Salad: Refreshing cucumbers mixed with ripe tomatoes create a light dish that balances rich kabob flavors.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries add sweetness and texture that contrasts beautifully with savory chicken kabobs.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad loaded with vegetables is perfect for summer barbecues and can be made in advance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. If you skip this step, your kabobs may taste bland.
• Using cold chicken: Cooking cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling.
• 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: A properly preheated grill helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before adding the kabobs.
• Ignoring doneness: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

• Wrap kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake kabobs on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking often.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil and sauté kabobs for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are in Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs?

The main ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing, basil pesto, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, and Spike Seasoning.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 8-10 hours in the refrigerator for optimal flavor absorption.

Can I use homemade pesto?

Yes! Homemade pesto works beautifully in this recipe and adds a personal touch to your Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs.

What can I serve with Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs?

These kabobs pair well with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are not only simple but also bursting with flavor, making them perfect for summer grilling. This versatile recipe allows for customization; feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the seasoning. Try these delicious kabobs at your next cookout!

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Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Pesto Chicken Kabobs are a delightful and flavorful low-carb dinner option perfect for summer grilling. This recipe requires just five ingredients, making it incredibly easy to prepare for barbecue gatherings or busy weeknights. The zesty combination of fresh lemon juice and rich basil pesto enhances tender chicken pieces, resulting in kabobs that are sure to impress family and friends. Whether served as a main dish or sliced up for salads and wraps, these kabobs provide versatility without sacrificing taste. In just 20 minutes of preparation time, you can have a delicious meal ready to grill, making it an ideal choice for outdoor cookouts.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup Newman's Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Spike Seasoning

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Instructions

1. Trim visible fat from the chicken breasts and cut each into 2-inch pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix the dressing, basil pesto, lemon juice, and Spike Seasoning to create the marinade.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a Ziploc bag or container, pour in the marinade, seal tightly, and ensure all pieces are coated.
4. Marinate in the fridge for 8-10 hours.
5. When ready to cook, drain excess marinade and bring chicken to room temperature.
6. Preheat grill to medium heat; thread chicken onto skewers.
7. Grill kabobs for approximately 15 minutes, turning often until cooked through.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 kabobs (170g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 115mg