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In the world of grilled delights, chicken skewers reign supreme for their versatility, ease of preparation, and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a family gathering, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner option, chicken skewers have something to offer everyone. Among the myriad of flavor combinations, the Zesty Basil Lime Chicken Skewers recipe stands out for its refreshing blend of zesty lime and aromatic basil, making it an ideal dish that elevates any meal with its burst of freshness.

Basil Lime Chicken Skewers

Elevate your summer gatherings with Zesty Basil Lime Chicken Skewers. This flavorful recipe features succulent chicken marinated in a refreshing blend of lime juice, aromatic basil, garlic, and a hint of honey. Perfect for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, these skewers are easy to prepare and packed with vibrant taste. Serve them on a platter with fresh basil and lime for a striking presentation. Enjoy delicious, healthy grilled goodness that everyone will love.

Ingredients
  

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

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

Zest of 2 limes

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

8 to 10 wooden or metal skewers

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped basil, lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is well blended and smooth.

    Marinate the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breast pieces into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow baking dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. For an even more robust flavor, consider marinating for up to 4 hours.

      Preheat the Grill: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for approximately 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 400°F (200°C).

        Skewer the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and discard any excess marinade. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a slight gap between each cube to promote even cooking.

          Grill the Skewers: Place the prepared skewers on the hot grill. Grill the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally to achieve beautiful grill marks and uniform cooking. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

            Rest and Serve: After grilling, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes, which helps retain moisture. Serve the skewers warm, accompanied by lime wedges for a bright, zesty kick and your choice of dipping sauce.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating) | Serves 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the skewers on a large platter, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and lime wedges for a vibrant and appealing presentation. Consider serving with a refreshing cucumber salad or grilled vegetables on the side for a complete meal.