These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful bites made with tender chicken pieces, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick meal or snack!
They’re fun to eat and smell amazing while cooking. I love serving them with dipping sauces—it’s like a mini party on a stick! 🎉 Give them a try at your next BBQ!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I often use boneless chicken thighs because they stay juicy. But if you’re counting calories, chicken breasts work just as well. You can even use shrimp or tofu for a different twist!
Olive Oil: This enhances flavor and helps with browning. If you’re out, you can use any cooking oil you have handy, like vegetable or canola oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is always best when you can use it.
Parmesan: Grated Parmesan adds a great taste. If you don’t have it, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) works in a pinch!
Italian Seasoning: You can mix your own with dried herbs if needed. A combo of dried oregano, thyme, and basil will do the trick.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for juicy, flavorful skewers. Here’s how to make the most out of your marinade:
- Combine all marinade ingredients together, ensuring the garlic gets well distributed.
- Coat the chicken evenly and let it sit in the fridge. The longer, the better—30 minutes is a must, but 2 hours is ideal!
When grilling, don’t overcrowd the skewers; this helps cook them evenly. Finally, let them rest after grilling to keep that juicy goodness locked in. You’ll love the results!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of cooking time. If you can let the chicken marinate, plan on 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best flavor. Overall, you could have these delicious skewers ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice. Stir well until everything is combined. This will create a flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will help achieve that perfect sear on the chicken!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they can brown on all sides. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
6. Let Them Rest:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot skewers garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley if desired. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
These garlic Parmesan chicken skewers are super easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining friends. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for skewers as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a little longer to cook through than chicken breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, you can use pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works wonderfully and adds a cheesy flavor too!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist while warming.
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Place the skewers on the sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
