If you’re searching for a dish that instantly transports your taste buds to a sun-kissed backyard cookout, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe. With its juicy grilled chunks of chicken, savory garlic, and an irresistible Parmesan crust, this recipe checks every box for an easy yet flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re a newbie griller or a seasoned BBQ enthusiast, this vibrant and satisfying kebab recipe is sure to win over anyone gathered around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe truly shine is its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Every component has a purpose, working together to make these kebabs seriously craveable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are lean yet tender, letting the marinade flavors soak in beautifully and ensuring each bite is juicy.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures the chicken stays moist while developing golden edges on the grill.
- Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic transforms the marinade with robust aroma and flavor—don’t skimp on it!
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star of this recipe, Parmesan creates a nutty, salty crust that clings to each piece of chicken.
- Italian seasoning: A balanced blend of herbs that adds depth and a familiar Mediterranean flair.
- Paprika: Lends a gentle smokiness and enhances the kebabs’ tempting golden color.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out the chicken’s natural flavors and bringing all the seasonings together.
- Black pepper: Adds a touch of mellow warmth without overwhelming the other notes.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the marinade, giving the dish a fresh, zesty finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Sprinkled at the end, parsley provides a burst of color and freshness.
- Wooden or metal skewers: These are a must for assembling your kebabs—just remember to soak wooden skewers ahead of time to prevent burning.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes—this simple step keeps them from charring or catching fire on the grill. Metal skewers can be washed and set aside, ready to load up with tasty marinated chicken.
Step 2: Make the Flavorful Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe—the olive oil and lemon juice keep things juicy, while all those spices and the cheese turn the chicken into something truly special.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken cubes straight into the bowl, tossing to ensure every piece is lovingly coated in the cheesy, herby marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes—or go up to 4 hours for even richer, deeper flavor. The waiting can be tough, but it’s oh-so-worth it!
Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Once marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto your skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly—leave a little space between each piece so they grill evenly and pick up those perfect char marks.
Step 5: Fire Up the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and cooked through (you’re looking for an internal temp of 165°F/74°C). The aroma at this stage is absolutely intoxicating!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Slide the cooked kebabs off the grill and sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. The parsley is more than just window dressing—it brings brightness and a fresh herbal note to every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe. Serve right away for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches are what make this dish truly pop. In addition to that vibrant sprinkle of chopped parsley, consider hitting your kebabs with an extra dusting of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving. Each adds a final layer of flavor and a little extra wow-factor for your plate.
Side Dishes
The beauty of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe is how versatile it is for pairing. Serve these skewers over fluffy rice, alongside a crisp green salad, or with roasted vegetables for a colorful meal. If you want a light summer spread, a dill yogurt dip or tzatziki on the side is absolutely divine for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your dinner into a festive spread by arranging the kebabs atop a platter lined with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Or, remove the chicken from the skewers and serve over a giant, herby grain bowl. For a fun party appetizer twist, cut the chicken into smaller cubes and use cocktail skewers to serve bite-sized versions of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, simply let the kebabs come to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch a breeze to look forward to!
Freezing
Want to meal prep? Place cooled chicken kebabs (off the skewers) in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and they’ll be just as flavorful as the day you made them.
Reheating
To refresh your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe, warm them gently in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes (cover loosely with foil), or zap them in the microwave for a quick lunch fix. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley after reheating to recapture that just-grilled vibe.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are wonderfully juicy and flavorful—just cut them into similar-sized cubes and marinate as directed. They may take a minute or two longer to cook through but will be just as delicious.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe indoors?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan or even a broiler will yield mouthwatering results. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and give your skewers a turn or two for even browning.
What vegetables can I add to the skewers?
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe is a perfect foundation for customization. Try adding chunks of bell pepper, red onion, or zucchini between pieces of chicken for extra color and nutrition—just make sure all veggies are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Is the marinade gluten-free?
Great news: all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and satisfying choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight will give you even more intense and developed flavors. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours to keep the chicken texture at its best.
Final Thoughts
Give yourself and your loved ones a summer-inspired treat by making this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe. Every tender bite bursts with herby, cheesy, garlicky goodness, and it’s easier to whip up than you might think. Fire up the grill and let these skewers steal the show at your next meal!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a summer barbecue. Tender chicken pieces marinated in a garlic and Parmesan mixture, grilled to perfection, and garnished with fresh parsley. A delicious gluten-free main course that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Additional:
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- These kebabs pair well with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
- You can customize by adding veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
