Get ready to fire up your grill for a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser: the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. This simple yet undeniably delicious dish brings together juicy grilled chicken, savory garlic, and a blanket of fresh Parmesan, all on a stick! Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or craving a quick weeknight meal, this recipe promises crisp edges and mouthwatering bites in every skewer. With vibrant herbs and a squeeze of lemon, it’s no surprise these skewers are a party favorite I come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe truly lies in its effortlessly short ingredient list, where each component is chosen not only for its flavor but also for the way it harmonizes with the others. It’s proof that a few staples, when combined just right, can make an unforgettable meal.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless pieces and cut them into 1-inch cubes for tender, juicy texture and easy grilling.
- Olive oil: This helps everything stick and keeps the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the skewers with bold, aromatic flavor; don’t skimp!
- Italian seasoning: A pinch of this classic blend offers herby depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt: Essential for amplifying every ingredient and ensuring the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper: Adds mild heat and a touch of sharpness that balances the rich Parmesan.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle in for a gentle kick, or leave them out if you want to keep it mild.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the show! Choose good-quality Parmesan for that salty, nutty finish that melts over the warm skewers.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Just before serving, a shower of parsley brightens everything up with fresh color and subtle herby notes.
- Lemon wedges: Squeeze over just before eating for a burst of acidity that makes all the flavors pop.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden skewers add a rustic touch—just don’t forget to soak them to prevent burning.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before you start. This important step keeps them from burning or splintering on the grill, so your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe comes out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and, if you like a little heat, red pepper flakes. Toss in the chicken cubes and turn them so each piece is thoroughly coated in this fragrant marinade. Cover and let the chicken soak up all that flavor in the fridge—aim for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum taste.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot to get those beautiful char marks that make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Thread and Grill the Chicken
Remove your marinated chicken from the fridge and start threading the cubes onto your skewers. Pack them close but not too tight, so the heat circulates evenly. Grill the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has some lovely golden-brown edges.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
While the chicken is still hot from the grill, immediately shower the skewers with grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth melts the cheese onto the chicken, giving you a beautifully savory, slightly crispy topping. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
Step 6: Serve with Lemon Wedges
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe hot, with juicy lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over just before eating. The citrus not only adds brightness but ties all the flavors together with a zesty finish.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
These skewers love a shower of fresh parsley and a generous handful of grated Parmesan right before serving. For extra flair, tuck a few lemon wedges on the plate—guests will love adding a final squeeze themselves. You could even toss a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color and kick.
Side Dishes
Keep things simple and satisfying by serving your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe over fluffy rice, crisp garden salads, or warm garlic bread on the side. The savory chicken practically begs to be paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fresh grilled veggies for a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family gatherings, try standing the skewers upright in a jar or arranging them on a big platter with drizzles of extra olive oil and scattered fresh herbs. If you’re serving buffet-style, smaller “mini” skewers make perfect finger food—just cut the chicken cubes a little smaller and shorten the grilling time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra skewers, cool them to room temperature and transfer the chicken (off the skewers for easier storage) into an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days without any loss of flavor or juiciness.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover cooked chicken from the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe for up to 2 months. Be sure to remove the chicken from the skewers and store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until heated through. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the oven helps keep that irresistible grilled texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are especially juicy and flavorful, making them a great option for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. Just trim any excess fat and cut into cubes as you would with breasts.
Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, simply bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get wonderful flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While you can shorten the marinating time in a pinch, allowing at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) helps the chicken fully absorb the flavors and turn out extra juicy in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe.
How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill is well preheated and lightly greased with a bit of oil before adding the skewers. Also, avoid moving the skewers too soon; once they have good grill marks, they’ll release easily.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For best texture, reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes until heated through. This keeps the chicken moist and the Parmesan slightly crispy, just like freshly grilled!
Final Thoughts
Give this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe a try and watch it become your new go-to for grilling season and beyond. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavors that are sure to impress—so gather your friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy every bite!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for grilling season. Tender chicken marinated in garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then grilled to perfection. A flavorful and satisfying meal that’s great for a family dinner or summer barbecue.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- lemon wedges for serving
- wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Grill Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Finish: Immediately sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while hot and let it melt onto the chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Serve over rice, salad, or with garlic bread.
- You can also bake the skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
