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As the warm days of summer arrive, outdoor cooking takes center stage, with grilling becoming an essential part of many gatherings. Among the myriad of options for your summer barbecue, Zesty Basil Lime Chicken Skewers stand out for their vibrant flavors and tantalizing aroma. This dish perfectly showcases the balance of zesty lime, aromatic basil, and succulent chicken, making it not only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the senses. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or a casual dinner party, these chicken skewers are sure to impress your guests.

Basil Lime Chicken Skewers

Get ready to elevate your summer grilling with Zesty Basil Lime Chicken Skewers! These delicious skewers combine succulent chicken, aromatic basil, and zesty lime for a flavor explosion that's perfect for barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners. Easy to prepare, the marination process enhances the taste, while colorful vegetables can be added for extra flair. Enjoy a nutritious meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty, making it a sure favorite for gatherings!

Ingredients
  

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

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

Zest and juice from 2 limes

3 tablespoons honey

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped basil, lime zest, lime juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients until they are well incorporated, creating a vibrant marinade.

    Add Chicken: Introduce the chicken cubes into the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse (for a more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours).

      Prepare Skewers: After marinating, carefully thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. If desired, intersperse pieces of bell pepper or onion between the chicken for added color and flavor.

        Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of about 375°F to 400°F. If you are using a grill pan, warm it up over medium-high heat on the stovetop.

          Grill the Skewers: Place the prepared skewers on the hot grill. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to achieve an even cook. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked and display beautiful grill marks; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

            Serve Hot: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Serve the juicy chicken skewers with lime wedges on the side, and garnish with a fresh sprinkle of chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle a little extra olive oil or lime juice over the top. For a festive touch, accompany the dish with a colorful salad or seasoned rice.