Chicken Skewers with Tarragon-Pistachio Pesto

Chicken Skewers with Tarragon-Pistachio Pesto: A Simple Summer Supper

Summer evenings are made for easy entertaining, and these chicken skewers are the perfect centerpiece for a relaxed get-together with friends. The vibrant flavors of tarragon and pistachio pesto complement the juicy chicken and grilled vegetables beautifully, creating a dish that's both elegant and effortlessly delicious. Forget slaving away in the kitchen all evening; this recipe allows you to enjoy your guests' company.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The pesto, while flavorful and sophisticated, is surprisingly quick to whip up. I love using store-bought ingredients where I can to streamline the process. For example, pre-cut vegetables save precious time, allowing you to focus on the fun aspects of hosting – mingling with your friends and enjoying the warm summer air. And don't forget the sides! A simple couscous or rice salad, along with some store-bought hummus and pita bread, makes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Preparing the Pesto: The pesto is the star of this show. The combination of fresh tarragon, pistachios, and lemon juice creates a bright and herbaceous flavor profile that perfectly complements the grilled chicken. I find that a food processor is the quickest and easiest way to make the pesto, but you could also use a mortar and pestle for a more traditional approach. Just remember to add the olive oil gradually to achieve the desired consistency.

Assembling the Skewers: Once the pesto is ready, assembling the skewers is a breeze. Simply thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating the ingredients for an attractive presentation. I like to use wooden skewers, but metal ones work just as well. Remember to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Grilling to Perfection: Grilling is where the magic happens. The high heat of the grill sears the chicken and vegetables, creating a delicious char and locking in the juices. A little olive oil and a generous coating of pesto before grilling help to enhance the flavor and prevent sticking. Watch the skewers carefully, turning them regularly to ensure even cooking. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions: The possibilities for serving are endless. These skewers are delightful on their own, but serving them with a side of rice or couscous elevates the dish. A simple salad adds freshness, and a bottle of chilled rosé wine perfectly complements the flavors. To complete the meal, ask a guest to bring their favorite dessert; ice cream, sorbet, or cookies are all great options.

This recipe is perfect for a casual summer gathering or a more formal dinner party. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your liking. You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, or experiment with different herbs and spices in the pesto. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process. Happy grilling!

Tips for Success:

• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling will enhance its flavor and keep it moist.
• Don't overcrowd the grill: Overcrowding the grill will lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Grill the skewers in batches if necessary.
• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your dish. Use fresh, flavorful ingredients whenever possible.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.

Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests. So fire up the grill, gather your friends, and enjoy a delightful summer evening with these delicious chicken skewers!

Step-by-step

• Puree first 5 ingredients in processor. Add 1/4 cup olive oil and blend until slightly coarse paste forms. Mix in 2 tablespoons water. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer 3 tablespoons pesto to a small bowl (for brushing chicken and vegetables); reserve remaining pesto.
• Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Brush grill with oil.
• Thread 1 onion piece, 1 bell pepper square, 1 lemon slice half, 1 chicken tender (lengthwise), then 1 onion piece, 1 bell pepper square, and 1 lemon slice half alternately on each of 8 skewers.
• Brush vegetables and chicken on skewers with olive oil, then with 3 tablespoons pesto from the small bowl. Sprinkle skewers with salt and pepper.
• Grill until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are slightly softened, 6 to 8 minutes per side.
• Serve with reserved pesto.