Grilled Chicken Skewers With Red Pepper Pesto

The aroma of roasted red peppers always transports me back to my grandmother’s garden in Sicily. She’d roast peppers over an open fire, their smoky sweetness filling the air, and then blend them into the most incredible sauces. This recipe, with its vibrant red pepper pesto, captures that same essence of sun-drenched flavor and simple, rustic elegance. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a summer barbecue or a light, flavorful dinner.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (7 ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained well
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, peeled
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon
• 8 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• ½ cup whole almonds, toasted (about 2 1/2 ounces)
• 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless

Equipment Needed

• Food processor
• Grill or broiler
• Skewers (toothpicks or small bamboo skewers)
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the pesto. In a food processor, combine the drained roasted red peppers, fresh cilantro leaves, balsamic vinegar, garlic clove, dry mustard, ground coriander, and ground cinnamon. Process until the mixture is almost smooth.

2. Add the toasted whole almonds to the food processor and process until they are finely chopped, but not ground into a paste. The pesto should have some texture.

3. Season the red pepper pesto to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside.

4. Prepare your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, preheat your broiler.

5. Brush the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6. Grill the chicken breasts until they are cooked through. This typically takes about 5 minutes per side, but the exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the heat of your grill. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C). If using a broiler, place the chicken on a baking sheet and broil for a similar amount of time, flipping once halfway through, and watching carefully to prevent burning.

7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill or broiler and let it cool slightly. Then, cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces.

8. Skewer each piece of chicken with a toothpick or small bamboo skewer.

9. Arrange the chicken skewers on a serving platter and serve with the prepared red pepper pesto. The pesto can be served on the side for dipping, or drizzled over the skewers for a more intense flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toasting the Almonds: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the pesto. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly golden, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Adjusting the Pesto Consistency: If you prefer a smoother pesto, add a little more olive oil, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Preventing Dry Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
• Make-Ahead Pesto: The red pepper pesto can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great way to save time when preparing the meal.
• Grill Marks: For attractive grill marks, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Press the chicken down gently as it cooks to ensure good contact with the grates.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These grilled chicken skewers with red pepper pesto are fantastic served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or as part of a larger meal. Garnish the platter with fresh cilantro sprigs for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The red pepper pesto can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To reheat the skewers, you can microwave them gently, but they are best reheated in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) to prevent them from drying out. Serve with fresh pesto.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	320 kcal	16%
Total Fat	20g	31%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	80mg	27%
Sodium	250mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	6g	2%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	3g	–
Protein	28g	56%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Pesto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick.
• Nut-Free Pesto: Substitute sunflower seeds for the almonds for a nut-free version.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs in the pesto, such as basil, parsley, or oregano.
• Vegetarian Option: Use grilled halloumi cheese or firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian alternative. Cut the halloumi or tofu into 1-inch cubes and follow the same grilling instructions.
• Lemon Pesto: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the pesto for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
• Different Peppers: Use other types of roasted peppers, such as yellow or orange bell peppers, for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Marinade: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before grilling for extra flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-made pesto instead of making my own?
A: While homemade pesto is always best, you can certainly use store-bought pesto to save time. Look for a high-quality pesto with fresh ingredients.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
A: Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also brush the chicken with a little extra olive oil before grilling.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during grilling. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

Q: What side dishes pair well with these skewers?
A: These skewers pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as couscous, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Skewers with Red Pepper Pesto recipe is a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors. The vibrant pesto elevates the simple grilled chicken to something truly special, and it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or as a show-stopping appetizer at your next gathering. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and substitutions to make it your own! I’d love to hear about your experiences and any creative twists you come up with. Enjoy!