These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are perfect for any meal! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a yummy garlic and parmesan mix, making every bite full of flavor.
Grilling them is a breeze, and the smell will make your neighbors envious! 😂 I love serving these with a side of veggies for a tasty and fun dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean meat, but thighs work well too. They stay juicier and add some extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breast instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for the best taste. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder—1 teaspoon should do the trick, but fresh is ideal. I love the extra kick fresh garlic gives!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings great flavor. For a twist, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste too!
Olive Oil: It adds moisture and helps the marinade stick. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is a great substitute with a similar flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken skewers is in the marination! Take the time to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer is even better (up to 4 hours) for that rich flavor. This step lets the seasoning soak into the meat.
- Mix the marinade ingredients together until well combined.
- Coat the chicken pieces evenly and let them rest in the fridge.
- Make sure your grill is hot before adding the skewers, as this helps achieve a nice sear and locks in the juices while keeping the chicken tender.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Then, cooking on the grill will take another 10-12 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend around 50 minutes from start to finish, with minimal hands-on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until you have a well-combined marinade. This will bring great flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the chicken until it’s evenly coated. Once coated, cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have extra time, a few hours will make it even tastier!
3. Prepping for Grilling:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
4. Assembling the Skewers:
Once the chicken is well-marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to help them cook evenly.
5. Grilling the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have a beautiful golden color. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Finishing Touches:
When they’re done, remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle a bit more grated Parmesan cheese and some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a nice presentation.
7. Serving Your Skewers:
Serve the skewers hot with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. Enjoy this tasty and easy dish with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary, as thighs might take a minute longer.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or even Grana Padano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast to still get that cheesy taste!
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
How Should I Store Leftover 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 until warmed through. They might lose a bit of their crispiness, but they’ll still be delicious!
