These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! They are juicy pieces of chicken coated in a garlic and cheesy goodness, all grilled to perfection. So simple and delicious!
I love making these skewers for a quick dinner or a fun party snack. Plus, they are great for using up any chicken leftovers—just don’t forget the extra napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, but thighs are juicier and more forgiving if you overcook them. You can even substitute with firm tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic works best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon should do. If you’re not a huge fan of garlic, consider using less or adding some lemon zest for freshness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect, but if you’re in a bind, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano will work too. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Italian Seasoning: This is a convenient blend. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs can also add a great punch.
How Do You Get Chicken Skewers Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but following these tips can help you achieve perfectly cooked skewers every time.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
- Make sure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps create those beautiful grill marks.
- Leave some space between chicken pieces on the skewer for even cooking. This encourages airflow and helps them cook uniformly.
- Don’t flip too often! Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes before checking. You want to see a nice golden-brown color.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
With these tips, you’ll have flavorful and juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that everyone will love!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (to prevent burning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, along with at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken—up to 2 hours if you want extra flavor! Then, plan for about 10 minutes of grill time. So, all in all, you’ll need around 50 minutes to get these delicious skewers on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade that will coat the chicken nicely.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, making sure to toss the pieces until they are evenly coated. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, I recommend letting it marinate for 1-2 hours!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. It’s important to get it nice and hot for those delicious grill marks!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, take your chicken out of the fridge and thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a bit of space between the pieces to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color and to make sure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) for safe eating!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and some extra Parmesan cheese, if you like! Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad.
Now enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is the main focus, you can substitute it with firm tofu, shrimp, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose—shrimp cooks quicker, while beef may need a bit longer depending on your preference for doneness.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is labeled gluten-free. Additionally, check any pre-packaged seasonings to ensure they don’t contain gluten additives.
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. If you’re grilling leftover skewers, they can safely be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated on the grill or in the oven.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or even some rice or pasta to soak up the delicious flavors. You can also offer dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a zesty chimichurri to complement the savory taste!
