Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling or baking. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a garlic and Parmesan-infused mixture, then skewered and cooked to perfection. These skewers make for a delicious dinner, a party appetizer, or a fun addition to any barbecue. Serve them with a dipping sauce or a side of veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth of flavor
- Zest of 1 lemon for extra citrusy flavor
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Dipping sauce (like garlic aioli, ranch, or marinara)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until the mixture forms a thick marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat the chicken evenly in the garlic-Parmesan marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill or in the oven.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Skewers
Option 1: Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Option 2: Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the skewers from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference. Chicken thighs are juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner.
- Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can marinate it for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidity from the lemon can break down the chicken’s texture.
Variations
1. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Skewers
Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper on top before serving.
2. Garlic Parmesan Veggie Skewers
Add chunks of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or red onions to the skewers along with the chicken. Marinate the vegetables in the same garlic Parmesan mixture for a complete meal on a stick.
3. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers
Substitute the chicken with large shrimp. Marinate the shrimp in the same garlic Parmesan mixture and grill or bake for a quick and delicious seafood alternative.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Garlic Parmesan Skewers
Wrap each piece of marinated chicken with a slice of bacon before skewering. The bacon will add extra flavor and crispness when grilled or baked.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version:
- Use full-fat Parmesan cheese and avoid any breaded or coated options.
- Serve with a side of zucchini noodles or a green salad instead of bread or rice.
- Choose a sugar-free dipping sauce, such as a garlic aioli or ranch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and marinate the chicken up to 1 day in advance. Keep the marinated chicken covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to skewer and cook it.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken before cooking?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken (before skewering) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Q: What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?
These skewers pair perfectly with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a zesty marinara sauce. You can also drizzle them with extra lemon juice or a homemade garlic butter for added flavor.
Q: Can I bake these without skewers?
Yes! You can skip the skewers and bake the marinated chicken pieces on a sheet pan. Just spread the chicken out evenly and bake as directed.
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor from the rich garlic-Parmesan marinade. They’re easy to make and versatile enough for grilling, baking, or even air-frying. Perfect for dinner, parties, or a family barbecue, these skewers will satisfy your cravings for something savory and delicious. Customize them with your favorite veggies or spices, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
