If you are searching for a vibrant and irresistible dish to brighten up your dinner table, this Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated in fresh basil and garlic, grilled to smoky perfection, and paired with a luxuriously creamy whipped ricotta that bursts with subtle garlic and lemon flavors. It’s a perfect harmony of bold herbs, tangy citrus, and rich creaminess that transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend feast or looking to impress guests with minimal fuss, this recipe brings sunshine, flavor, and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet powerful, each one playing an essential role in building layers of flavor, enticing aroma, and beautiful color. From the fragrant fresh basil to the creamy ricotta, this recipe relies on quality staples that come together effortlessly.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose your preference for juiciness (thighs) or lean meat (breasts), cut into 1½-inch pieces for even cooking.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Provides moisture, helps marinade infusion, and adds richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a pungent and savory kick that pairs wonderfully with basil.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Bright, fragrant, and slightly sweet, basil is the heart of this dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds vibrant acidity to balance richness and enhance freshness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Amplifies the flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle heat and earthiness.
- Wooden skewers: Remember to soak them in water before grilling to prevent burning.
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese: The base for the whipped ricotta, creamy with a mild tang.
- 1 clove garlic, grated or minced: Incorporated into the ricotta for an aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds silkiness and depth to the whipped ricotta.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the ricotta with citrus fragrance.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the whipped ricotta perfectly.
How to Make Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First, in a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse, infusing the chicken with vibrant herbaceous and tangy notes. Add the chicken pieces and gently toss until fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlicky Whipped Ricotta
While the chicken soaks up the flavors, blend your ricotta with grated garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Use a food processor or hand mixer to whip everything until luxuriously smooth and creamy. The whipped texture is what sets this ricotta apart, making it a dreamy, velvety dip or topping that wonderfully complements the smoky grilled chicken. Chill it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat – the ideal temperature for achieving those signature grill marks while locking in the juices. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between them so they cook evenly. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning once until the chicken turns golden with a light char and is cooked through. The aroma hitting your nose during this step is simply irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Serve each skewer hot atop a generous spoonful of the garlicky whipped ricotta. The warm, smoky chicken combined with the cool, creamy ricotta creates an unforgettable mouthfeel and flavor contrast that will keep everyone coming back for more. Feel free to drizzle a little extra olive oil or sprinkle chopped basil as a final touch.
How to Serve Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil elevate the dish’s vibrant colors and aromas. You might also add a few cracked black peppercorns or a pinch of chili flakes if you want a gentle spicy kick to awaken the palate.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines when paired with crisp grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions, which add a smoky sweetness and extra texture. Light flatbreads and a fresh green salad with herbs, cucumbers, and tomatoes also balance the richness and bring a refreshing crunch, making a well-rounded Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun gathering, serve the chicken skewers laid out on a beautiful platter with the whipped ricotta in a bowl for dipping. Alternatively, create a vibrant grain bowl by laying skewers over cooked couscous or quinoa, dolloping whipped ricotta between veggie piles. This Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe lends itself easily to casual yet elegant presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the whipped ricotta separate and covered tightly to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cooked chicken skewers, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Freezing the whipped ricotta is not recommended as it may change texture upon thawing, so it’s best to prepare it fresh or consume it within a few days.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken skewers gently in a skillet or oven at medium heat to avoid drying out the meat. Serve warm skewers fresh with chilled whipped ricotta for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work great if you prefer lean meat, but be mindful to avoid overcooking, as they dry out more quickly than thighs. Adjust grilling time accordingly.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
If fresh basil is not available, you can try using fresh parsley or mint for a different but still refreshing herbal flavor. Dried basil is less vibrant but can work in a pinch combined with extra lemon zest.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
While the main feature is chicken, you could grill thick slices of halloumi cheese or marinated tofu on skewers and serve with the garlicky whipped ricotta for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
How far in advance can I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken between 30 minutes and up to 4 hours for the best results. Beyond that, the acid from the lemon juice may start to affect the texture and make the meat mushy.
Can I prepare the whipped ricotta without a food processor?
Yes, you can use a hand mixer, a whisk, or even vigorously stir the ingredients together to achieve a smooth whipped consistency, although a processor makes it more effortless and silky.
Final Thoughts
This Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome without any unnecessary fuss. The fresh basil and garlic, smoky grilled chicken, and dreamy ricotta come together for a taste and texture combination that’s hard to beat. I encourage you to try it at your next meal – it’s perfect for sharing, celebrating simple ingredients, and making every bite a little moment of joy.
Print
Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Basil and Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers with Garlicky Whipped Ricotta offer a fresh, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired main course. Tender chicken pieces marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, basil, and lemon juice are grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, zesty whipped ricotta sauce, making for a delicious and healthy meal perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water if grilling
For the Whipped Ricotta
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes, and up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Whipped Ricotta: While the chicken marinates, combine ricotta cheese, grated garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a food processor or a mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Blend or whip until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it’s ready for cooking the chicken skewers.
- Assemble and Grill the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, distributing the pieces evenly. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through with a light char on the outside.
- Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a serving dish. Spoon a generous amount of the garlicky whipped ricotta onto plates and place the hot skewers on top. Garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately with sides such as grilled vegetables, flatbread, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For a complete meal, serve these skewers with grilled vegetables, flatbread, or a fresh salad.
- If you prefer a sharper flavor, substitute the ricotta with whipped feta cheese.
- Soaking wooden skewers in water before grilling helps prevent them from burning.
