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If you are looking for a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy chicken cubes perfectly marinated in garlic and Parmesan, kissed by a light char on the grill, and finished with fragrant herbs. Each bite offers a rich, savory experience that feels both comforting and special, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a spectacular dish that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each of which plays a vital role in creating vibrant flavors and appealing textures. From the sharpness of fresh garlic to the nutty richness of Parmesan, every component is essential to the final masterpiece.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for quick, even cooking and juicy tenderness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a bold aromatic punch that infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor.
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty depth that coats the chicken beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps bind the marinade while keeping the chicken moist and adding a smooth richness.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the cheese and oil.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings warmth and complexity to the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for highlighting and enhancing all the other flavors perfectly.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Use metal for convenience or soak wooden skewers in water beforehand to avoid burning during cooking.
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and herbal brightness when serving.
- Garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or other dipping sauces: Perfect for dipping, they elevate the eating experience to a new level.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This careful sizing is key to ensuring each piece cooks evenly and stays juicy inside with a delightful sear on the outside.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Marinade
Combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients until they form a creamy, well-blended marinade that will coat your chicken with layers of flavor.
Step 3: Let the Chicken Marinate
Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for anywhere from 30 minutes up to 2 hours. This resting time allows the garlic and Parmesan to deeply infuse the chicken, building that unforgettable taste.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This spacing is important for even heat circulation during cooking, ensuring each bite is perfectly done.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally so every side gets beautifully charred. Alternatively, bake them in a 400°F oven for approximately 20 minutes, remembering to turn halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once cooked, remove the skewers from heat and let them rest briefly to lock in the juices. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan if you want to amp up the flavor and presentation before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are fantastic for brightening the rich flavors of this recipe. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving intensifies the savory notes and gives a lovely finishing touch that wow guests.
Side Dishes
Complement these delectable skewers with simple sides such as a crisp garden salad, garlic roasted potatoes that echo the garlic theme, or a light herb pasta to soak up any leftover tasty juices. These options balance the meal and make it feel complete without competing with the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of fun, serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli or tangy marinara. You can also place skewers over a bed of fluffy couscous or even chop the cooked chicken off the sticks and toss it into warm pita bread for a casual handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers keep very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches that still have that delicious fresh flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep the skewers longer, you can freeze them either before cooking—in a sealed bag with marinade—or after cooking once fully cooled. Be sure to label the container and consume within 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or use a stovetop grill pan to revive that irresistible char. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the texture and flavor integrity of the chicken and Parmesan coating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and a bit more flavor, making them a great alternative. Just be sure to trim excess fat and cut into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
Do I have to grill the skewers, or can I bake them instead?
You can definitely bake the skewers if you don’t have a grill. Baking at 400°F for around 20 minutes, turning halfway, works wonderfully and still produces juicy, delicious chicken.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers before using?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning or catching fire, which is an important safety tip when making this recipe.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just add the chicken cubes when ready to marinate, so the flavors are fresh and vibrant when you cook the skewers.
What dipping sauces go well with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Garlic aioli and marinara sauce are classic fits, but you can also try ranch dressing, pesto, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a personalized twist that matches your craving perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe has quickly become one of my top go-to dishes because it combines simplicity, speed, and incredible flavor in every bite. Whether you are feeding family or entertaining friends, these skewers deliver a satisfying and delightful experience. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—once you do, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved favorite that brightens any mealtime.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (grilling) or 20 minutes (baking)
- Total Time: 27-35 minutes depending on cooking method and marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 12 skewers)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make grilled dish featuring juicy chicken cubes marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, they pair wonderfully with a garden salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or light herb pasta. The chicken is tender, cheesy, and full of savory goodness, complemented by a fresh herb garnish and served with 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 Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized 1-inch cubes to ensure uniform cooking and juicy results.
- Make Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to let the flavors infuse.
- Skewer Chicken: Thread marinated chicken cubes onto wooden or metal skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking.
- Cook Skewers: Grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and chicken is cooked through with a nice char. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Remove skewers from heat and let rest briefly. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Ensure chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- Marinating time can be extended up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked (165°F).
- Feel free to customize the seasoning with additional herbs or spices to taste.
