Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat that bring bold flavors to your table. The chicken is marinated with garlic and topped with cheesy goodness before being grilled to juicy perfection!
These skewers are perfect for any occasion, and you’ll love how easy they are to make! I often serve them with a side of veggies or a fresh salad—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs work great too! They’re a bit juicier and add more flavor.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for marinating but feel free to substitute with avocado oil or canola oil for a different flavor profile. Both are good options and are great for high-heat cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty and nutty flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can be a fantastic substitute that adds a cheesy taste without the milk.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best for strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic can work, but I find fresh offers the most punch and depth.
Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano is versatile; you can swap it with Italian seasoning if you have it on hand. For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right on the grill is key. First, ensure your grill is preheated. This helps sear the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Here are some quick tips:
- After threading the chicken on skewers, leave a bit of space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill over medium-high heat, turning every few minutes until cooked through. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Check doneness by cutting into a piece; juices should run clear. A meat thermometer should read 165°F for fully cooked chicken.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps the juices redistribute for extra juicy chicken.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Cooking on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes, so you can whip up these tasty skewers in about an hour if you include marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until everything is combined into a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, and if you have time, up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, lightly oil the grates with some olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking when you grill it.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to pack them together, but not too tightly, so they can cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to get that nice golden-brown color. The chicken should be cooked through when done.
6. Rest and Garnish:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if you want a little more flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These skewers can be served warm as an appetizer or as a main dish! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will yield juicier skewers. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Since thighs can be a bit more fatty, you may want to monitor them closely while grilling to avoid flare-ups.
What Kind of Dipping Sauce Pairs Well with These Skewers?
A creamy garlic dip or a tangy yogurt-based sauce works wonderfully with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Try mixing Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and dill for a refreshing accompaniment!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, ensuring they don’t dry out. You can cover them with a lid to retain moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To keep this recipe gluten-free, just make sure that your Parmesan cheese and any marinades or sauces you use are labeled gluten-free. You can also serve the skewers with gluten-free dipping sauces for a complete meal.
