Here’s a list of all the ingredients for **Grilled Pesto Chicken Kabobs**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and keywords to help your recipe rank higher in search results:
- **Fresh basil pesto** (store-bought or homemade for a fresh, herby flavor)
- **Olive oil** (extra virgin for a rich, Mediterranean taste)
- **Garlic cloves** (minced for a bold, aromatic kick)
- **Lemon juice** (freshly squeezed for a zesty, tangy flavor)
- **Cherry tomatoes** (for a burst of sweetness and color)
- **Bell peppers** (red, yellow, or green for vibrant, crunchy kabobs)
- **Red onion** (cut into chunks for a mild, caramelized flavor)
- **Zucchini** (sliced into rounds for a tender, grilled texture)
- **Salt** (to enhance all the flavors)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground for a subtle spice)
- **Wooden or metal skewers** (for easy grilling and serving)
**Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor:**
- **Parmesan cheese** (grated for a nutty, savory topping)
- **Crushed red pepper flakes** (for a hint of heat)
- **Fresh basil leaves** (for garnish and added freshness)
This ingredient list is perfect for creating **easy grilled chicken kabobs** that are **healthy**, **flavorful**, and perfect for **summer grilling** or **weeknight dinners**.
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Steps
# How to Make Grilled Pesto Chicken Kabobs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Grilled pesto chicken kabobs are a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Packed with fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and colorful veggies, these kabobs are a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create restaurant-quality kabobs at home.
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## **Ingredients for Grilled Pesto Chicken Kabobs**
- **1 cup basil pesto** (store-bought or homemade)
- **1 red bell pepper** (cut into chunks)
- **1 yellow bell pepper** (cut into chunks)
- **1 red onion** (cut into chunks)
- **1 zucchini** (sliced into rounds)
- **2 tbsp olive oil**
- **1 tsp garlic powder**
- **1 tsp smoked paprika**
- **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
- **Wooden or metal skewers**
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Marinate the Chicken**
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with **1/2 cup of basil pesto**, **olive oil**, **garlic powder**, **smoked paprika**, **salt**, and **pepper**.
- Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for **at least 30 minutes** (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
### **2. Prepare the Vegetables**
- While the chicken marinates, chop the **bell peppers**, **red onion**, and **zucchini** into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the veggies with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
### **3. Assemble the Kabobs**
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for **20-30 minutes** to prevent burning on the grill.
- Thread the marinated chicken and veggies onto the skewers, alternating between pieces for a colorful presentation.
### **4. Preheat the Grill**
- Preheat your grill to **medium-high heat** (around 375°F to 400°F).
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
### **5. Grill the Kabobs**
- Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill.
- Cook for **10-12 minutes**, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of **165°F**, and the veggies should be tender with a slight char.
### **6. Add the Finishing Touch**
- Once the kabobs are cooked, remove them from the grill and brush with the remaining **1/2 cup of basil pesto** for an extra burst of flavor.
### **7. Serve and Enjoy**
- Serve the grilled pesto chicken kabobs hot with a side of **rice**, **quinoa**, or a fresh **green salad**. Garnish with extra pesto or a squeeze of lemon for added zest.
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## **Tips for Perfect Grilled Pesto Chicken Kabobs**
- Use **homemade pesto** for a fresher taste by blending basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.
- For a **low-carb option**, skip the starchy sides and serve with grilled asparagus or cauliflower rice.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the kabobs on a **grill pan** or **oven broiler**.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
These grilled pesto chicken kabobs are not only delicious but also **high in protein**, **low in carbs**, and packed with **antioxidants** from the fresh veggies. They’re perfect for meal prep, outdoor gatherings, or a quick family dinner.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!