2poundsboneless, skinless chicken breastscut into 1-inch cubes
1/4cupolive oil
2pieceslemonsjuiced
4clovesgarlicminced
1tablespoonfresh rosemarychopped
1tablespoonfresh thymechopped
Salt and pepperto taste
Wooden skewerssoaked in water for 30 minutes
Firecracker Corn Salad
4cupsfresh corn kernels(about 6 ears of corn)
1piecered bell pepperdiced
1pieceyellow bell pepperdiced
1/2cupred onionfinely chopped
1/2cupcilantrochopped
2pieceslimesjuiced
1teaspoonchili powder
Saltto taste
Classic American Potato Salad
3poundsrusset potatoespeeled and cubed
1cupmayonnaise
2tablespoonsDijon mustard
3pieceshard-boiled eggschopped
1cupceleryfinely chopped
1/4cupsweet pickle relish
Salt and pepperto taste
Red, White, and Blue Fruit Parfait
2cupsstrawberrieshulled and sliced
2cupsblueberries
2cupswhipped cream
2cupsgranola
Patriotic Berry Sangria Mocktail
4cupssparkling water
1cupblueberries
1cupsliced strawberries
1cupraspberries
Fresh mint leavesfor garnish
Instructions
1. Start with the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, ensuring not to overcrowd. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the Firecracker Corn Salad. In a large bowl, combine the fresh corn kernels, diced red and yellow bell peppers, chopped red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice, sprinkle with chili powder, and season with salt. Toss gently to combine and set aside to let the flavors develop.
4. For the Classic American Potato Salad, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, relish, salt, and pepper. Once the potatoes are cool, fold them into the mayonnaise mixture. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
5. To assemble the Red, White, and Blue Fruit Parfait, take a clear glass or cup and layer the sliced strawberries at the bottom, followed by a layer of whipped cream and a layer of granola. Repeat the layers, finishing with blueberries on top for a patriotic touch.
6. Finally, prepare the Patriotic Berry Sangria Mocktail by combining sparkling water with blueberries, sliced strawberries, and raspberries in a large pitcher. Stir gently and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
7. Serve all dishes at room temperature or slightly chilled, allowing your guests to enjoy a vibrant and festive Fourth of July feast.
Notes
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepared in advance to ensure a seamless cooking experience. Freshness is key, so opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.