These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, tasty, and full of flavor! The garlic and cheese mix together to make chicken that everyone will love.
Honestly, who can resist garlic and cheese? I enjoy these skewers with a side salad or some grilled veggies. They’re quick to make, and clean-up is a breeze! 🍗🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs according to your preference. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast cubes can also work well!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. For each clove of garlic, substitute 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder. However, I really recommend fresh garlic for that punchy taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a wonderful cheesy flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese like Grana Padano. Just be cautious with salt, as Parm is already salty.
Olive Oil: This is great for grilling, but if you don’t have it, you could use melted butter or even avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Marinade?
Marinating the chicken is key to getting super tasty skewers. When you combine olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan, it creates a delicious coating.
- Mix all marinade ingredients well before adding the chicken.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This could be even longer for more flavor.
- Don’t skip this step—it makes the chicken super juicy and packed with flavor!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Cooking on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. In total, expect to spend around 1 hour to enjoy these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will be the flavorful marinade that makes the chicken juicy and delicious.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Toss them around to make sure all the pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is super important for letting all those flavors soak in!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready when the chicken is done marinating.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have a nice golden color. Make sure to check that it’s no longer pink in the center!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch. Serve the skewers hot with your choice of sides—these pair great with salads, grilled veggies, or rice!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
FAQ About Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for skewers because they’re juicier and more forgiving when cooking. If you prefer, feel free to use a mix of both for more flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook. This can save you time and boost the flavors!
What Can I Serve with These Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them over rice or pasta, drizzled with a bit of lemon juice for added zest!
