Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the answer! They’re packed with bold garlic flavor and coated in savory Parmesan, creating a juicy and irresistible dish that’s perfect for grilling or baking. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or planning a cozy dinner, these chicken skewers are sure to impress. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare and go well with just about any side!
In our household, nothing brings more excitement than the aroma of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers sizzling on the grill. My husband is a huge fan of anything with garlic, and these skewers are no exception. The first time I made them, I watched as he eagerly reached for a skewer, took a bite, and immediately went for another. Now, they’re a staple in our family meals, especially during summer cookouts. Even the kids love them! We’ve found that they make a fantastic appetizer, main course, or even a fun addition to our family game nights.
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Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible coating.
- Perfect for Grilling: The skewers make for easy grilling and ensure even cooking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, parties, or even a simple weeknight meal.
- Quick & Easy: Requires minimal prep and can be on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Cut into bite-sized cubes for easy skewering.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that bold flavor.
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Olive Oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and allows the Parmesan and garlic to stick.
Recipe Steps for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Prep the Chicken: Cut 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large bowl.
- Marinate: In the bowl, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix until the chicken is well coated.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill or Bake:
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot!
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
- Freezer: You can freeze the marinated chicken pieces before cooking. Place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling or baking.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Veggies: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added flavor and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Lemon: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the skewers just before serving for a zesty finish.
- Herbs: Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a fresh herb flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges optional, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss until all the pieces are evenly coated in the garlic Parmesan mixture. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Skewers:
- Grill: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the chicken skewers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken skewers with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. They pair wonderfully with a side salad, rice, or grilled vegetables.
- Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers—a perfect dish for a summer barbecue, dinner, or party appetizer!