If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. This recipe combines the savory richness of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender, juicy chicken pieces threaded perfectly on skewers — making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual grilling session with friends. Each bite delivers a mouthwatering balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and robust garlic notes that will have you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that are easy to find and come together quickly.
- Flavor explosion: Garlic and Parmesan work in harmony to create a rich and satisfying taste.
- Versatile cooking: Great for grilling, baking, or even pan-searing depending on your kitchen setup.
- Perfect portioning: Skewers make for easy serving and perfectly sized bites every time.
- Family-friendly: Mild but flavorful, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers straightforward but versatile, making the dish easy to prepare and packed with flavor and texture.
- Chicken breasts: Tender and lean, cut into even cubes for quick cooking and juiciness.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic delivers that signature pungent, aromatic punch.
- Parmesan cheese: Finely grated for a rich, salty layer of flavor that melts slightly while cooking.
- Olive oil: Helps blend the marinade ingredients while keeping the chicken moist.
- Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements garlic and cheese beautifully.
- Lemon juice: Provides a light, fresh acidity to balance richness and brighten the palate.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Used for threading and grilling the chicken pieces evenly.
Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Feel free to customize your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers to suit your taste or dietary needs — these tweaks keep the base recipe fresh and exciting!
- Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade for some heat.
- Herb swap: Use fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a different herbal twist.
- Dairy-free: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Veggie boost: Thread bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini slices between chicken pieces for extra color and nutrients.
- Smoky flavor: Grill over charcoal or add smoked paprika to the marinade to enhance the smoky aroma.
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How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes, about one-inch pieces, to ensure uniform cooking and juicy results.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture infuses the chicken with bold flavors and keeps it tender.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 2 hours to let the flavors soak in.
Step 4: Thread the Skewers
Whether using wooden or metal skewers, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto each skewer, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is beautifully charred and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for an irresistible finish.
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Marinate longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you have time.
- Soak wooden skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water at least 30 minutes before threading.
- Uniform chicken pieces: Cut chicken into similar sizes to ensure even cooking and prevent dryness.
- Don’t overcook: Check with a meat thermometer to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Rest after grilling: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes to lock in juices and flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or basil adds vibrant green color and a burst of herbal freshness that perfectly complements the rich Parmesan flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp garden salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for a full and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange skewers on a wooden board alongside dipping sauces like garlic aioli or a tangy marinara, making them perfect for casual gatherings or family-style meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, making it easy to reheat a quick meal later.
Freezing
For longer storage, remove chicken from skewers, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave on medium power in short intervals to keep chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs offer more fat and tend to stay juicier, making them a fantastic alternative for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers?
Absolutely. Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Swap Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or omit it, and use a dairy-free oil-based marinade to keep the flavors delicious.
What’s the best way to prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?
Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers and lightly oil the grill grates or the chicken to reduce sticking.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, baking at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, results in tender and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers without a grill.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an absolute crowd-pleaser that bring together simplicity and bold flavors in a quick, easy dish anyone can master. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving a tasty, satisfying meal, this recipe hits the spot every time. Grab your skewers and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious dishes you’ll add to your recipe rotation!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 12 skewers) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a quick, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken cubes marinated in a rich blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, then grilled or baked to juicy perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these skewers deliver a creamy, cheesy, and aromatic taste that appeals to the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tools
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
Optional Garnishes and Sides
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
- Garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or other dipping sauces
- Suggested sides: garden salad, garlic roasted potatoes, light herb pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized 1-inch cubes to ensure uniform cooking and juicy results.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to let the flavors infuse.
- Thread the Skewers: Thread marinated chicken cubes onto wooden or metal skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking.
- Cook the Skewers: Grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and chicken is cooked through with a nice char. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove skewers from heat and let rest briefly. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
Notes
- Marinate longer (up to overnight) for deeper flavor.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Cut chicken into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and juiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
- Let skewers rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
- For a spicy variation, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade.
- Swap Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini slices onto skewers for extra color and nutrients.
- Grill over charcoal or add smoked paprika to the marinade for a smoky flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes grilling or 20 minutes baking
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 skewers
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg