Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh herb flavor, these Lemon Basil Chicken Skewers are a simple yet impressive dish. Marinated in a lively mix of lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant basil, the chicken stays tender and juicy after grilling. Paired with a creamy garlic aioli for dipping, they’re perfect for warm evenings, BBQs, or a quick weeknight dinner that feels special without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- For the Skewers:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
- For the Garlic Aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
- Prepare the Garlic Aioli:
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
- Cook the Skewers:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve:
- Serve the grilled chicken skewers hot with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping.
Recipe Tips:
- Marination Time: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate.
- Grilling: Ensure the grill is hot before adding the skewers to achieve a good sear.
- Aioli Variation: For a spicier aioli, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, chicken thighs are more forgiving and remain juicy after grilling.
- Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
- Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- How long can I store the garlic aioli?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
