Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: The Ultimate Grilling Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine succulent, juicy chicken, perfectly marinated and grilled to golden perfection, then generously coated in a savory blend of garlic and parmesan. These aren’t just skewers; they’re an explosion of flavor on a stick!

While the exact origins of skewered meats are lost to the mists of time, the concept of cooking food on a stick is ancient, spanning cultures and continents. From the Middle Eastern kebab to the Japanese yakitori, skewered delights have always been a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a variety of ingredients. Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers draw inspiration from these traditions, adding a distinctly Italian-American twist with the irresistible combination of garlic and parmesan cheese.

What makes these skewers so universally loved? It’s the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The garlic and parmesan create a rich, umami-packed coating that complements the tender chicken beautifully. They are incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next barbecue. Plus, who can resist the fun and portability of food on a stick? Get ready to experience the magic of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
• Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish
• Wooden Skewers: 15-20 (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)

Preparing the Chicken and Marinade:

1. First things first, let’s get those skewers soaking! Fill a shallow dish with water and submerge your wooden skewers. This is a crucial step to prevent them from catching fire on the grill or in the oven. I usually soak them for at least 30 minutes, but longer is even better.
2. Now, let’s tackle the chicken. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and allows the marinade to adhere better.
3. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Nobody wants some pieces overcooked while others are still raw!
4. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens! This marinade is packed with flavor and will make your chicken skewers absolutely irresistible.
5. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated. I like to use my hands to gently massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag. Place it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be. I often marinate it for 2-4 hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor.

Assembling the Skewers:

1. Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Remove the skewers from the water and pat them dry.
2. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. I usually aim for about 5-6 chicken cubes per skewer.
3. Repeat until all the chicken is used up. You should have around 15-20 skewers, depending on the size of your chicken breasts and how many pieces you put on each skewer.

Cooking the Skewers:

Grilling Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
3. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. The goal is to have juicy, tender chicken with a slightly charred exterior.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.

Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Place the chicken skewers on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Turn the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
4. If you want a more golden-brown color, you can broil the skewers for the last 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Transfer the cooked chicken skewers to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are delicious on their own as an appetizer or as part of a main course.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables to your skewers for a more complete meal. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions are all great options. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes as the chicken so they cook evenly.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken before cooking.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest added to the marinade can brighten up the flavor and add a zesty touch.
• Honey Garlic Glaze: For a sweeter flavor, brush the skewers with a honey garlic glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. Simply combine equal parts honey and minced garlic, and brush it over the chicken.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: These skewers are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a simple garlic aioli.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just make sure to cook them within 24 hours for the best results.
• Air Fryer Option: You can also cook these in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
• Use Different Cheeses: While Parmesan is the star here, feel free to experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Don’t Skip the Soaking: Seriously, don’t skip soaking the skewers! It’s a small step that makes a big difference in preventing them from burning.

Serving Suggestions:

• Appetizer: Serve these skewers as a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party or gathering.
• Main Course: Pair them with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Salad Topping: Slice the chicken off the skewers and add it to a salad for a protein-packed and flavorful topping.
• Sandwiches or Wraps: Use the chicken to make delicious sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a quick and easy lunch.
• Tacos or Burritos: Dice the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add some salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a fiesta-worthy meal.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great way to add some flavor to your next meal. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or even a fancy appetizer spread. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, the savory garlic, and the salty, nutty Parmesan is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor explosion in every single bite, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Need a gluten-free option? Simply ensure your soy sauce or tamari is gluten-free. Watching your carb intake? Serve these skewers over a bed of fresh greens or alongside some roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

And speaking of serving suggestions, let’s dive into some of my favorite ways to enjoy these delectable skewers. For a complete meal, I love pairing them with a vibrant quinoa salad or some creamy polenta. They’re also fantastic served with a side of grilled asparagus or a simple tomato and mozzarella salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving them as appetizers with a tangy dipping sauce, like a lemon-herb aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo.

But wait, there’s more! Let’s talk variations. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little kick. Or, if you’re a fan of herbs, experiment with different combinations like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. You could even add a squeeze of lemon juice to the marinade for a brighter, more citrusy flavor. Another fun variation is to wrap each chicken piece in a thin slice of prosciutto before grilling – the salty, crispy prosciutto adds a whole new dimension of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over quinoa salad
• Pair with creamy polenta
• Serve with grilled asparagus
• Serve with tomato and mozzarella salad
• Serve as appetizers with a dipping sauce

Variations:

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter flavor
• Wrap each chicken piece in prosciutto before grilling

I truly believe that these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly delicious – what more could you ask for? So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or preheat your oven!), and get ready to experience a taste sensation.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I’m even more excited to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Please, please, please share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! I love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations. Your feedback helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. So, don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking, and enjoy every single bite of these amazing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers! I can’t wait to hear all about it!