Chicken Caprese Skewers

Published: July 14, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe quick, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled chicken, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze creates an explosion of taste.
Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer, main course, or even a picnic treat; they can be enjoyed anytime!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and antioxidants from tomatoes and basil, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.
Ideal for Summer Grilling: Enjoy outdoor cooking with friends and family while savoring this light and refreshing meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather the necessary tools to streamline your preparation. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in creating your Chicken Caprese Skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skewers (wooden or metal)
Grill
Food processor
Basting brush
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Skewers: Essential for threading ingredients together, making them easy to grill and serve.
Grill: Provides that smoky flavor and char that enhances the overall taste of the skewers.
Food Processor: A must-have for quickly blending ingredients for the homemade pesto, saving time on prep.
Basting Brush: Helps evenly coat the skewers with olive oil and balsamic glaze, ensuring great flavor in every bite.

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 the 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 the Pesto

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 Drizzle

3 Tbsp store-bought or homemade balsamic glaze

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Caprese Skewers

Step 1: Soak Wooden Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 1 hour (overnight is best). This prevents burning during grilling.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread pieces of chicken and tomatoes onto each skewer. Use about 4 pieces of chicken followed by 3 tomato halves per skewer.

Step 4: Season the Skewers

Brush both sides with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Kebabs

Place the kebabs on the grill. Cook for about 4 – 6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Prepare Homemade Pesto

While grilling, prepare your pesto. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse several times until finely minced.

Step 7: Add Olive Oil to Pesto Mix

With the food processor running slowly pour in olive oil until everything is well blended. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Finish Cooking & Serve

Once kebabs are cooked through, remove them from the grill. Thread one mozzarella ball onto each end of every skewer. Spoon pesto over kebabs and drizzle generously with balsamic glaze before serving warm.

How to Serve Chicken Caprese Skewers

Chicken Caprese Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most out of this delightful dish.

On a Platter

Arrange the skewers on a large platter for an eye-catching presentation. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added color and flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

Pair the skewers with a simple green salad. A mix of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes complements the flavors perfectly.

As Appetizers

Serve smaller portions as appetizers at gatherings. Cut the skewers into bite-sized pieces for easy eating during parties.

With Dipping Sauces

Provide a variety of dipping sauces such as extra balsamic glaze or ranch dressing. This adds an interactive element to your meal.

Over Rice or Quinoa

Serve the Chicken Caprese Skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds heartiness to the dish while soaking up all the delicious juices.

How to Perfect Chicken Caprese Skewers

Perfecting Chicken Caprese Skewers requires attention to detail, ensuring each element shines through. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will elevate the flavors significantly. Opt for high-quality chicken and ripe tomatoes.
Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Ensure there is enough space between the chicken and tomatoes on each skewer for even cooking.
Marinate Before Grilling: Consider marinating chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling for deeper flavors.
Monitor Grill Temperature: Maintaining a consistent medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect char without drying out the chicken.
Rest After Cooking: Allow skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain moisture within the chicken.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful twist on your skewers.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Caprese Skewers

Pairing Chicken Caprese Skewers with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Garlic Bread: A crunchy and warm garlic bread complements the flavors of the skewers beautifully, making it a classic choice.
Caprese Salad: Stick with tradition by serving a fresh Caprese salad alongside, featuring mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add vibrant colors and textures to your plate.
Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed with Italian dressing can balance out the richness of the chicken skewers perfectly.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brushed with herb butter brings sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken kebabs.
Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with cucumbers, mint, and lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the grilled flavors of your skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Caprese Skewers, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Soaking: Failing to soak wooden skewers can lead to burning on the grill. Always soak them for at least an hour to prevent this problem.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients on one skewer can result in uneven cooking. Thread chicken and tomatoes in a balanced way for the best results.
Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning your chicken can make it bland. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper before grilling.
Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature may prevent a nice sear on the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for optimal results.
Not Checking Internal Temperature: Forgetting to check if the chicken reaches 165°F can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Serving Without Garnish: Skipping the pesto and balsamic glaze removes essential flavor layers. Always finish with these toppings for a complete taste experience.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the skewers to cool completely before sealing them in the container.
Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Freezing Chicken Caprese Skewers

Freeze skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to freezer bags.
They will last up to 3 months when properly packaged.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Chicken Caprese Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place skewers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of chicken for Chicken Caprese Skewers?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook evenly and remain juicy when grilled.

Can I use other vegetables in my Chicken Caprese Skewers?

Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, or red onions can add variety and flavor to your skewers.

How do I make homemade pesto for Chicken Caprese Skewers?

To prepare homemade pesto, blend fresh basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.

Can I make Chicken Caprese Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers several hours in advance before grilling.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Caprese Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile! This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or using various types of cheese. Enjoy this delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors together!

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