Basil Lime Chicken Skewers

To achieve that perfect char and juicy interior, preheating your grill is essential. Begin by turning your grill on to medium-high heat. If using a gas grill, ignite the burners and let the temperature rise for about 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. For charcoal grills, light the charcoal and allow it to burn until covered with white ash, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and enhances the flavors of your chicken skewers.

Discover the ultimate summer treat with Zesty Basil Lime Chicken Skewers! This flavorful dish combines juicy grilled chicken with a vibrant marinade of fresh basil, zesty lime, and aromatic spices, perfect for gatherings and family dinners. Easy to prepare, these skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Pair them with refreshing sides like coconut rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the taste of summer and make lasting memories around the grill with friends and family!

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Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Zest of 1 lime

1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

8-10 bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped basil, lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.

Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If using bamboo skewers, ensure you have soaked them beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.

Skewering: Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grilling: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and charring on all sides. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and lime wedges, if desired. These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of coconut rice or a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4