Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
If you’re searching for an irresistible way to upgrade your grilling game, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are about to become your newest obsession. Juicy chunks of chicken get tossed in a garlicky, cheesy marinade, then hit the grill for a golden, flavorful finish that’s sure to wow your friends and family. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, this easy dish is packed with zesty herbs and a punch of Parmesan, making it both elegant and unbelievably simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers at home. Every ingredient brings something special, from juiciness and flavor to those gorgeous golden edges and fresh bursts of color.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized cubes for quick, even grilling and maximum juiciness.
- Olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken and gives a luscious, rich texture when grilled.
- Garlic: Minced for bold, aromatic flavor that infuses every single bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, savory crust that sets these skewers apart.
- Italian seasoning: Adds herbal depth and warmth—think basil, oregano, and a hint of thyme.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance all those fabulous flavors without overwhelming them.
- Black pepper: For a gentle kick and peppery fragrance.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for a pop of green and a fresh finish right before serving.
- Lemon wedges: Bring brightness and a zingy burst when squeezed over the top.
- Skewers (wooden or metal): Essential for grilling; soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start this recipe by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This aromatic, cheesy marinade is the secret sauce! Add your chicken cubes and toss everything gently so that every piece gets well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken soak up all that flavor in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours if you want to plan ahead for deeper taste.
Step 2: Prep the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, get your skewers ready. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes—this trick keeps them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers can be used as is. Thread those glistening, garlicky chicken cubes onto the skewers, not packing them too tightly so the heat can do its magic on every side.
Step 3: Fire Up the Grill
Preheat your outdoor grill or a grill pan on the stove to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Turn them occasionally, letting the flames and heat form a delicious crust on the outside while sealing in the chicken’s juicy flavor inside. They’re ready when the chicken is cooked through and golden brown with bits of toasted cheese clinging to the edges.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a platter and sprinkle with lots of chopped fresh parsley. This not only makes the dish look gorgeous but also adds a lift of fresh flavor. Serve them with lemon wedges on the side for a squeeze of bright citrus just before eating. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your guests will be counting the minutes until dinner.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
Don’t skip the finishing touches. A generous shower of freshly chopped parsley adds a beautiful pop of color, while a hearty squeeze of lemon right before digging in brings out the flavors in an unbelievable way. If you’re feeling extra, you can sprinkle a little more Parmesan on top for that wow factor.
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers shine with so many sides! Try them with a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and balsamic, or pile them alongside fluffy rice or herby couscous. Roasted veggies or grilled corn keep things light and vibrant, turning your skewers into a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, slide just a few pieces of chicken per skewer and serve them with toothpicks at parties. Or, lay them over a bed of arugula with extra lemon for a fast, elegant weeknight dinner. Another idea: build a bowl—top cooked grains with the skewers, add your favorite toppings, and drizzle with a lemony yogurt sauce for a meal that feels gourmet at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, let them cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay juicy and flavorful for up to three days, making them perfect for easy lunches and salads throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, remove the cooked chicken from the skewers and arrange the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Remember to label with the date for easy meal planning!
Reheating
Reheat your skewers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave gently, but use low power to avoid drying out the chicken. A fresh squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of parsley revitalizes the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. When guests arrive or dinner time rolls around, simply skewer and grill. Cooked skewers also reheat well, making them a great option for meal prep.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries at all! Bake the chicken skewers in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes on a lined baking sheet, turning halfway. You’ll still get juicy chicken and cheesy, golden edges.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving and stay especially juicy on the grill, but you may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time. The flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers work wonderfully with either cut.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The basic recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, as written here, is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your Parmesan and seasonings aren’t processed with any fillers containing gluten.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled, and let the grill preheat fully before adding the skewers. The olive oil in the marinade also helps keep things from sticking, and turning the skewers gently will help keep the delicious crust intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the sizzling aroma and rich, cheesy flavor of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re firing up the grill for friends or craving a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a try—you’ll be surprised how quickly it disappears from the table!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling season. Tender chicken marinated in a savory garlic and Parmesan mixture, then grilled to perfection. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- lemon wedges for serving
Optional:
- wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the Skewers: Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from grill, sprinkle with parsley, and serve warm with lemon wedges.
Notes
- These skewers can also be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes if you don’t have a grill.
- Serve with a side salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
