Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta

If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying dish, these Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta are exactly what you need. Picture tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant basil and garlic mixture, perfectly grilled to achieve those gorgeous charred marks that make everything taste better. Then, top it off with the most indulgent garlicky whipped ricotta—creamy, smooth, and the perfect complement to the savory chicken. Trust me, these skewers are a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta

Bursting with Flavor: The fresh basil and garlic marinade gives the chicken a savory, aromatic depth, while the garlicky whipped ricotta adds a creamy, smooth contrast that brings everything together perfectly.

Perfect for Grilling: The skewers are easy to prepare and make for a fun, casual meal that’s ideal for grilling season or any time you want something fresh and flavorful.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, a picnic, or just cooking for the family, this dish is sure to be a hit. The combination of juicy chicken and whipped ricotta is both elegant and comforting.

Quick and Simple: With a short marination time and easy-to-follow grilling steps, this recipe is a breeze to put together, even for beginners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

Chicken Breasts: The lean and tender chicken that will absorb all the delicious flavors of the basil and garlic marinade.

Garlic: The star of the marinade, bringing that irresistible aroma and flavor.

Fresh Basil: Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the garlic perfectly.

Olive Oil: Helps to bind the marinade ingredients and gives the chicken a golden, crispy exterior when grilled.

Lemon Zest: Brightens up the dish with a fresh citrusy zing.

Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.

Wooden or Metal Skewers: To thread the marinated chicken pieces onto before grilling.

For the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta:

Ricotta Cheese: The creamy base for this luscious dip, adding a mild and rich flavor.

Garlic: For that extra punch of garlic flavor in the whipped ricotta.

Olive Oil: Gives the ricotta a smooth, velvety texture and enhances the flavor.

Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity to balance out the richness of the ricotta.

Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.

Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and add them to the marinade. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Prepare the Skewers:

• While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes (if using) to prevent burning.
• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even grilling.

Grill the Chicken Skewers:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
• Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and set aside to rest for a few minutes.

Make the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta:

• In a food processor or blender, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
• If the ricotta is too thick, add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Serve:

• Serve the grilled chicken skewers with a generous dollop of the garlicky whipped ricotta on the side.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)
Serving Size: 2 skewers with whipped ricotta
Calories: 370
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 57 minutes

How to Serve Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta

• As a Main Course: Serve with a side of fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a warm quinoa dish for a full meal.
• As an Appetizer: These skewers are perfect for a party or gathering. Serve them alongside some pita bread and the whipped ricotta for dipping.
• With a Glass of White Wine: Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the fresh, garlicky flavors.

Additional Tips

• Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken the night before and grill it fresh the next day for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
• Make it Spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
• Grill Marks: For the best grill marks, make sure the grill is preheated and that you don’t overcrowd the skewers on the grill.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result, and they’re perfect for grilling.

Q2: Can I make the whipped ricotta ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can make the whipped ricotta ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q3: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A3: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q4: Can I make these skewers on the stovetop?
A4: Yes! You can cook the skewers in a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Just be sure to rotate them for even cooking.

Q5: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A5: Yes! Try using a dairy-free ricotta alternative to make the whipped ricotta and enjoy this dish without the dairy.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
A6: Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are great choices to add to the skewers for more variety.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Q8: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A8: Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but if you must use dried basil, use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

Q9: Can I grill these skewers in advance?
A9: Yes! You can grill the chicken ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Q10: How do I make the whipped ricotta smoother?
A10: If you prefer an even smoother texture, blend the ricotta for a bit longer or add a splash of milk or cream to make it extra silky.

Conclusion

These Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta are the ultimate dish to enjoy on a warm day or whenever you’re craving something fresh and full of flavor. Juicy, aromatic chicken paired with a creamy, garlicky dip makes every bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these skewers are sure to impress and satisfy! Enjoy!

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