If you’re looking for a dish that brings together juicy, tender chicken with the irresistible flavors of garlic and Parmesan, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is an absolute winner. Perfect for any occasion, these skewers boast a beautiful balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy notes that make every bite a delight. Whether grilled outdoors or baked in your kitchen, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive way to elevate your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of fresh, simple ingredients, this recipe lets the flavors of each component shine through. Each ingredient plays an essential role—whether it’s adding vibrant aroma, tangy brightness, or that creamy Parmesan richness—all blending to create an unforgettable flavor profile and perfect texture.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choosing chicken breasts ensures lean protein with tender, juicy bites when cooked properly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a robust and aromatic base that defines the dish’s bold garlic flavor.
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: The Parmesan melts and crisps during cooking, lending a nutty and salty complexity.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: This binds the marinade ingredients and keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty note that balances the richness of the cheese and oil.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that introduces earthy, fragrant flavors enhancing the marinade.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fundamental seasonings that bring out and harmonize all the other flavors.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading the chicken, with wooden skewers needing to soak beforehand to prevent burning.
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil: A fresh herb garnish that adds a pop of color and subtle freshness once plated.
- Garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or dipping sauces: Optional accompaniments to add extra flavor and customize the eating experience.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even 1-inch cubes. This ensures the pieces cook uniformly, giving you juicy, tender bites without any overcooked or dry spots. Properly sized pieces are key to the perfect skewer experience.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, finely grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This marinade is bursting with flavor, coating each piece and tenderizing the chicken while infusing it with those classic Italian-inspired tastes.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken cubes with the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally up to 2 hours. This resting time lets the flavors deepen and guarantees every bite will be bursting with garlicky, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Thread the Skewers
Now it’s time to thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers. Leave a small gap between the pieces to allow heat to circulate evenly, ensuring each cube cooks perfectly through without steaming.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
For that irresistible char and smoky aroma, grill the skewers over medium-high heat for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you prefer indoors or don’t have access to a grill, baking at 400°F for approximately 20 minutes, turning halfway through, works beautifully as well.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, let the skewers rest briefly to redistribute juices, then garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces and watch how quickly they disappear!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil brings a lovely burst of color and freshness, brightening up the dish. Adding a little extra Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the crispy edges of the chicken.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair these skewers with a refreshing garden salad for a crisp contrast, garlic roasted potatoes to echo the meal’s savory notes, or a light herb pasta that complements the Italian seasoning beautifully. These sides balance the dish and satisfy every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe to the next level. Try serving the skewers over a bed of fluffy couscous or grilled vegetables for a colorful palette. Alternatively, present them on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli or marinara for an inviting, communal feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled properly maintains flavor and texture so you can enjoy the deliciousness all over again with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freezing cooked skewers is a great option. Place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without sacrificing taste or texture.
Reheating
Reheat your skewers gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to retain juiciness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. A quick return to the grill for a couple of minutes also works wonders for reviving their flavor and crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative that offers richer flavor and even more juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through completely.
Do I really need to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them prevents burning during cooking, especially on the grill. If you forget, metal skewers are a reliable, reusable option.
How can I make the skewers spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or brush the cooked skewers with a spicy sauce like buffalo or chipotle aioli. This is a simple way to give the dish some heat while keeping the original flavors intact.
Can I prepare these skewers in advance for a party?
You can definitely marinate the chicken a few hours before your event and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook. You can also assemble the skewers ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge, then grill or bake just before serving.
What dipping sauces pair best with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Garlic aioli complements the garlic flavor perfectly, while a tangy marinara offers a traditional Italian combo. Ranch or honey mustard are also fantastic choices that appeal to a variety of tastes.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with unparalleled flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family weeknights or special occasions, these skewers are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Don’t wait—grab your skewers and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (grilling) or 20 minutes (baking)
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken cubes marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Grilled to perfection with a slight char, they make a perfect meal for gatherings or a tasty weeknight dinner, served with fresh herbs and your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
- Garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or other dipping sauces
Suggested Sides
- Garden salad
- Garlic roasted potatoes
- Light herb pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized 1-inch cubes. This ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and remains juicy.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to fully infuse into the chicken.
- Thread the Skewers: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the cubes onto wooden or metal skewers. Leave small gaps between pieces to promote even cooking.
- Cook the Skewers: Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a nice char. Alternatively, bake the skewers at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cooked skewers from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauces for a complete meal.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Marinating for longer than 2 hours is not recommended as the lemon juice can start to cook the chicken and change its texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked to 165°F.
- These skewers can be baked as a convenient alternative to grilling.
- Serve with garlic aioli, marinara, or your choice of dipping sauce for added flavor.
