Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that will be the star of your next barbecue or dinner party? Look no further than these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers! Juicy, tender chicken marinated in a mouthwatering blend of garlic, parmesan, and herbs, grilled to perfection on skewers – this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Read on to learn how to make this simple yet flavorful dish, and wow your friends and family with a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
What Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a savory, grilled dish made from chunks of marinated chicken threaded onto skewers. The marinade features bold flavors from garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a variety of herbs and seasonings. The skewers are then grilled or baked, allowing the chicken to develop a crispy, flavorful crust while staying moist and juicy inside. These skewers are perfect for outdoor grilling, family gatherings, or even as a quick weeknight dinner option. They’re easy to prepare and packed with bold, zesty flavors.
Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To create these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and enhances flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a robust garlic flavor that permeates the chicken.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the show, giving the chicken its signature cheesy, umami-rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the cheese.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and a touch of color to the skewers.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors in the marinade.
- Wooden or metal skewers: For threading the chicken. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
You can also experiment with additional ingredients to enhance the flavor of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:
- Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant note when sprinkled on the skewers just before serving.
- Red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat, you can add a pinch to the marinade.
- Crushed garlic croutons: For an added crunch, crush some garlic-flavored croutons and sprinkle them over the cooked skewers.
- Grated Pecorino Romano cheese: Swap out or mix with parmesan for a saltier, sharper flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable! If you don’t have some of the ingredients or are looking to switch things up, here are a few substitutions and variations to try:
- Chicken thighs instead of breasts: If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs will provide a juicier and richer flavor.
- Vegan option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Different cheese options: Swap out parmesan for asiago, cheddar, or mozzarella for a unique twist on the classic.
- Herb variations: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Baking instead of grilling: If you don’t have access to a grill, bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers? Follow these easy steps to ensure perfect results:
- Prepare the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated parmesan, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients are well mixed.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator (for best results, marinate for 2-4 hours).
- Preheat your grill or oven: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Thread the chicken onto skewers: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers.
- Grill or bake the skewers: Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. If baking, bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.
- Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a bit of extra parmesan, if desired.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
For a more detailed look at how to cook the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, follow this breakdown:
- Marinade Preparation: Combine olive oil, garlic, parmesan, and seasonings. The mixture should be thick enough to cling to the chicken, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
- Marinating the Chicken: Let the chicken soak in the flavors. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. Ideally, let it sit for 2-4 hours.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Avoid overcrowding the pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Grilling or Baking: Whether you’re using a grill or oven, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Grill marks or slight browning are ideal for that crispy exterior.
- Finishing Touches: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the marinade: Don’t rush the process. Let the chicken marinate to absorb all the flavors.
- Overcrowding the skewers: This prevents the chicken from cooking evenly. Leave space between pieces.
- High heat grilling: Too much heat can burn the chicken before it’s fully cooked. Use medium-high heat for best results.
- Not soaking wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers and forget to soak them, they can burn on the grill.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, presentation matters! Here are a few tips to make your dish stand out:
- Serve with dipping sauces: Pair the skewers with garlic aioli, tzatziki, or a lemon butter sauce for added richness.
- Side dishes: Serve the skewers with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a hearty pasta dish.
- Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra grating of parmesan for a beautiful finishing touch.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
You can serve these skewers as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a larger spread. For a full meal, consider pairing them with:
- Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes make a great accompaniment.
- Pasta salad: A light, fresh pasta salad with lemon and herbs pairs well with the bold flavors of the skewers.
- Rice or quinoa: For a heartier option, serve the skewers over a bed of rice or quinoa.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Skewer Platter: Arrange the skewers on a large platter, lined with lettuce or arugula for a fresh pop of color.
- Individual plates: Serve each guest their own skewer with a side of dipping sauce and a small salad for a more formal presentation.
- Garnished with herbs and lemon wedges: Add lemon wedges and sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the platter for a beautiful, restaurant-worthy look.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips
- Use freshly grated parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may contain additives that prevent it from melting properly. Freshly grated cheese will give you better texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon: A little acidity goes a long way in balancing the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan.
- Experiment with herbs: While Italian seasoning works great, try fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a more aromatic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure to oil the grill grates before placing the skewers down, and avoid moving the skewers too early. Let them form a sear before turning.
What other proteins can I use?
You can try shrimp, pork, or even beef for a different take on this recipe.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an easy, flavorful way to impress your guests or elevate your family dinners. With a simple yet delicious marinade, these skewers pack a punch of flavor in every bite. Perfect for grilling or baking, they’re versatile enough for any occasion. Follow the steps in this guide, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing recipe! Make sure to experiment with sides and sauces to personalize the dish to your taste.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful, and loaded with garlicky goodness. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick dinner, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, giving it a savory kick. Skewered and grilled to perfection, it's an easy dish to serve with a side of veggies or salad for a complete meal. Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, grilled chicken, chicken skewers, garlic, Parmesan, easy dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, coating evenly. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. You can also bake or broil the skewers if a grill isn’t available.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
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