Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Grilled skewers are always a hit, whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a quick dinner, or looking for the perfect party appetizer. And when it comes to flavor combinations, few things beat the dynamic duo of garlic and Parmesan. That’s exactly what makes these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers such a standout dish—tender, juicy chicken is marinated and grilled to perfection, then topped with a buttery, garlicky Parmesan coating that’s absolutely irresistible.

These skewers are versatile enough to work for just about any occasion. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and fun to eat! Plus, they can be served on their own as an appetizer or paired with sides like a fresh salad, crispy fries, or even some fluffy rice for a complete meal.

In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that will become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to grilling, you’ll find this recipe approachable, satisfying, and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

1. Bold Flavor Combination: The combination of garlic and Parmesan brings a depth of flavor that’s rich, savory, and perfectly complements the grilled chicken.
2. Easy and Quick to Prepare: With just a little prep time and a quick marinade, these skewers come together in no time. Plus, grilling them takes just a few minutes.
3. Versatile Serving Options: These skewers can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even prepped ahead for a party or weeknight dinner.
4. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether you’re serving these skewers at a family dinner or at a large gathering, they’re always a hit. They’re finger food-friendly and perfect for sharing.
5. Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to your liking—add some heat with red pepper flakes or swap out chicken for shrimp or veggies to suit different dietary needs.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 30-40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4-6
• Serving Size: 2-3 skewers per person

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast or chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8-10 wooden or metal skewers
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Parmesan Coating:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For Garnish:

• Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Special Equipment:

• Grill or Grill Pan (for cooking the skewers)
• Pastry Brush (for coating the skewers with the garlic butter sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

1. Cut the Chicken:

Start by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This ensures that they cook evenly and remain tender on the grill.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until they’re evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

1. Soak Wooden Skewers (if using):

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20-30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill.

2. Skewer the Chicken:

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. If you’re using metal skewers, there’s no need to soak them beforehand.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Coating

1. Melt the Butter:

In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Add Parmesan and Seasonings:

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). You can also add garlic powder for an extra punch of garlic flavor. Mix until the cheese has melted slightly into the butter, forming a rich, cheesy sauce.

3. Set Aside the Sauce:

Keep the garlic Parmesan sauce warm while you grill the chicken skewers. You’ll use it to coat the skewers as soon as they come off the grill.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers

1. Preheat the Grill:

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.

2. Grill the Skewers:

Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Be careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

3. Baste with Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

As soon as the skewers come off the grill, brush them generously with the warm garlic Parmesan sauce using a pastry brush. The sauce will melt into the chicken, coating each piece with a delicious layer of garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with Extra Parmesan:

Sprinkle the skewers with a little extra Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

2. Serve with Lemon Wedges:

Serve the skewers with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish that complements the richness of the garlic Parmesan sauce.

3. Enjoy Warm:

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are best enjoyed warm, straight off the grill. Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or part of a larger meal with your favorite side dishes.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

These skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these skewers on a platter with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, ranch, or even marinara. They’re perfect finger food for parties or gatherings.
• As a Main Dish: Pair the skewers with a side of garlic bread, a simple Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.
• With Grains or Rice: Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or even couscous for a wholesome dinner.
• With Fries: These skewers also pair beautifully with crispy fries, especially garlic Parmesan fries to complement the flavor of the chicken.
• In a Wrap or Pita: Turn the skewers into a handheld meal by sliding the chicken off the skewers and wrapping it in pita bread or a tortilla with some fresh veggies and extra sauce.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken on the grill, as it can dry out quickly. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
2. Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic to the sauce or even to the marinade. For a milder garlic flavor, reduce the amount or sauté the garlic for a little longer to mellow its intensity.
3. Soak the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 20 minutes is essential to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a more intense flavor compared to pre-shredded versions, so it’s worth the extra effort.
5. Prep Ahead for Parties: If you’re making these skewers for a party, you can prep the chicken and marinade ahead of time. You can even skewer the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before grilling.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is how easy they are to customize. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Skewers:

For those who like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic Parmesan sauce. You can also sprinkle the finished skewers with cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

2. Shrimp Skewers:

Swap out the chicken for shrimp to make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers. Shrimp cooks even faster than chicken, so keep an eye on the grill to avoid overcooking. This variation is perfect for seafood lovers and can be served alongside a fresh salad or pasta.

3. Veggie Skewers:

Make a vegetarian version by skewering vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. Grill the veggies until tender and baste them with the garlic Parmesan sauce for a tasty, meat-free option.

4. Mediterranean-Inspired Skewers:

For a Mediterranean twist, add a touch of oregano, thyme, and lemon zest to the garlic Parmesan sauce. Serve the skewers with tzatziki and a fresh Greek salad on the side.

5. Buffalo Garlic Parmesan Skewers:

For a bold flavor combination, mix some buffalo sauce into the garlic Parmesan sauce. The tangy buffalo flavor combined with the savory garlic and Parmesan makes for an unforgettable twist on these skewers.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftover chicken skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the grill marks and texture will hold up better with oven reheating.

Freezing:

You can also freeze the cooked chicken skewers for later. Once they’ve cooled completely, remove the chicken from the skewers and place the pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or on the stovetop.

Reheating from Frozen:

To reheat frozen skewers, place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re heated through. You can also microwave them, but reheating in the oven will give you the best results.

Special Equipment

• Skewers (Wooden or Metal): If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them before grilling. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.
• Grill or Grill Pan: A grill is ideal for getting those beautiful char marks, but if you don’t have one, a grill pan works just as well on the stovetop.
• Pastry Brush: Use a pastry brush to apply the garlic Parmesan sauce evenly to the chicken skewers after grilling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and tend to stay even juicier than chicken breasts. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the skewers in a 425°F (220°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Just be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that all your ingredients, like the Parmesan and butter, are certified gluten-free. No need to worry about any wheat-based ingredients.

4. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before adding the chicken skewers. You can also brush the chicken lightly with olive oil to help prevent sticking.

5. Can I make the skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and skewer it ahead of time, storing the skewers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead for parties or weeknight dinners.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an incredibly flavorful and versatile dish that’s sure to impress at your next dinner or gathering. The juicy, marinated chicken combined with the rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether you’re serving these skewers as a main course or an appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Plus, with endless options for customizing the recipe—whether you add spice, swap chicken for shrimp, or make a vegetarian version—this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!

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