These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are tasty little bites! Juicy chicken is mixed with garlic and parmesan, all cooked to perfection on skewers. They’re perfect for grilling or baking!
Get ready for a flavor explosion! I love serving them with a side of veggies or a fun dip. Plus, they’re super easy to make—just marinate, skewer, and cook. Yum! 🍗❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I personally like using chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but chicken breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use turkey. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey can dry out faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder can do in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon for every clove of fresh garlic. Just remember that fresh intense flavor will be missed a little!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is my go-to, but Pecorino Romano or a non-dairy cheese can be good substitutes for a similar texture and flavor. You can even try a mix of Italian cheeses if you want to mix things up!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice flavor, but any neutral oil, like canola or avocado oil, will work too. For a more intense taste, you can use flavored oils like garlic oil.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish! If you don’t have lemons, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can add acidity too, though it will flavor slightly different.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to flavor and moisture! Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl and taste it; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Make sure the chicken pieces are well coated. This helps them soak up all that flavorful goodness.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, aim for 1-2 hours. Just remember not to go over 4 hours; the acid from the lemon can start to break down the chicken too much.
Also, while grilling or baking, check the chicken’s doneness with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation, and then you should refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 1-2 hours for the best flavor. Cooking will take about 15-25 minutes, depending on grilling or baking. So, plan to have around 2 hours in total if you let the chicken marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until everything is mixed well. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss them around until they are nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (longer for more flavor!).
3. Get Ready to Cook:
Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. If you prefer to bake them, set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Now, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Cook the Skewers:
For grilling, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are fully cooked through and have a nice char. If you’re baking, lay the skewers on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the skewers off the heat. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top and add a bit of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with lemon wedges on the side—perfect for squeezing over the chicken to enhance the flavors!
Enjoy these delightful, juicy garlic Parmesan chicken skewers as a tasty main dish. They’re great for a quick dinner or a fun gathering with friends and family!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While thighs are juicy and flavorful, chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as breasts can dry out if overcooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken ahead of time! Prepare the marinade and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and then skewer and cook it when you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or on top of rice or pasta. Dipping them in a garlic aioli or tzatziki can add an extra flavor boost!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave, being cautious not to dry them out. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads or wraps!
