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
Scale
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