Introduction
Chicken Skewers with Tarragon-Pistachio Pesto offers a delightful blend of herbs and nuts, creating a unique and flavorful experience. The pesto sauce complements the grilled chicken perfectly, while the fresh ingredients bring out vibrant tastes that are both satisfying and visually appealing. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions from casual family meals to more formal gatherings.
Tips for this recipe
To achieve the best results with Chicken Skewers with Tarragon-Pistachio Pesto, ensure that your chicken is tender and well-seasoned before grilling. When making the pesto sauce, do not skimp on the fresh herbs or nuts for authentic flavor. Additionally, consider marinating the chicken in part of the prepared pesto to infuse extra taste into each skewer.
Why you will love this recipe
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that caters to various palates. The combination of sweet red onions and bell peppers with savory chicken, all drizzled in the rich tarragon-pistachio pesto, makes for an irresayerable meal. It’s not just about taste; it also looks impressive when presented on a platter. Plus, it’s a perfect way to enjoy outdoor cooking and make lasting memories with friends and family.
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted natural pistachios
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 medium garlic clove, peeled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 16 1-inch pieces red onion (1/3 inch thick)
– 16 1-inch squares red bell pepper
– 8 lemon slices, halved
– 1 pound chicken tenders (about 8 large)
Adviced equipment
– Kitchen knife
– Grilling tongs
– Baking sheet or skewer tray
– Measuring spoons
– Mixing bowl
– Hand mixer or food processor
– Spatula
– Grill brush
History of the recipe
The origins of Chicken Skewers with Tarragon-Pistachio Pesto are deeply rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, where grilling and pesto have been staples for centuries. This particular combination reflects a modern twist on traditional flavors by introducing tarragon and pistachios to the classic chicken skewer recipe, providing both depth of flavor and nutritional benefits from these Mediterranean ingredients.
Fun facts about this recipe
100 years ago, grilling was a primary cooking method during summertime when people gathered for communal meals and celebrations. Skewers were often the go-to choice due to their convenience and effectiveness in evenly cooking foods over an open flame.
Tarragon and pistachios, while not native to every culture, have been adopted into many culinary traditions for their unique flavors. Tarragon’s distinctive licorice taste pairs well with the natural sweetness of roasted red bell peppers and onions in this dish, making it a delightful surprise for any palate seeking bold new tastes.
Moreover, the process of creating pesto sauce has evolved significantly over time. From ancient times when herbs were simply crushed with nuts between stones to today’s electric food processors that make quick work of combining ingredients into a smooth paste, technology continues to shape our culinary experiences. This recipe represents the seamless blending of traditional flavors and modern cooking techniques.