These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy and bursting with flavor! Marinated in garlic, cheese, and herbs, they are perfect for grilling or baking.
You won’t be able to stop at just one! I love to serve these skewers with a tasty dip or a fresh salad. Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, just remember they can be less juicy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that punch of flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder – about 1 teaspoon will do, but fresh is always best!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delightful salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point when grilling, or use melted butter for an even richer taste.
Smoked Paprika: This adds depth. If you want it less smoky, regular paprika works too, or try cayenne for a bit of heat!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful. The longer you can marinate (up to 2 hours), the better the flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is well-coated in marinade. A zip-top bag works great for mixing!
- When grilling, make sure not to crowd the skewers. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice char.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should be at 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let the skewers rest a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them moist.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (up to 2 hours for even better flavor). Grilling takes about 10-12 minutes. In total, plan for around 1 hour including marinating and cooking time. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice (if you’re using it). Stir everything together well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss them gently to coat them evenly with the mixture. Once well-coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor.
3. Preheat and Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. This helps them develop that lovely grilled flavor!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and immediately sprinkle them generously with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes, then serve them up! Garnish with additional parsley if you like, and enjoy these delicious, garlicky, cheesy chicken skewers as an appetizer or a main dish!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner. Both work wonderfully, so choose based on your preference!
How Can I Make the Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in advance or even the night before for a deeper flavor. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to skewer and grill. If you fully assemble the skewers, it’s best to cook them on the day of serving for the best taste and texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, try using Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese if you’re not strictly following the recipe!
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, making sure to not overcook them to maintain their juiciness!
