These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Marinated in garlic and sprinkled with cheesy goodness, they’re great for grilling or baking.
Serving them with a side of veggies not only adds color but makes it feel like a fancy dinner. I can’t help but snack on them straight off the skewer—so good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too! If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey breast instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Just use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy touch. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist. You can substitute avocado oil or any mild-flavored oil if needed.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken cooked perfectly can be tricky. The best method is to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). Here are effective steps to follow:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—this enhances richness.
- Heat your grill or pan to medium-high; this helps sear the outsides quickly, keeping moisture inside.
- Turn the skewers gently; this makes sure the chicken cooks evenly without sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for done-ness, ensuring not to puncture any skewers that could release juices.
Following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked and juicy chicken skewers every time!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate. Grill time is around 10 minutes, making the total time about an hour (including marination) for a fabulous dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This fragrant mixture will coat your chicken in flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken chunks to the bowl and toss them well to get them evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. You can let it sit for up to 2 hours to intensify the flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers can go straight to use!
4. Assemble the Skewers
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each chunk for even cooking.
5. Get Your Grill Ready
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate or pan so the chicken doesn’t stick.
6. Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Turn them once until they are golden and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C).
7. Transfer and Garnish
When done, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving plate. Feel free to garnish with extra minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that final touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These tasty garlic Parmesan chicken skewers are best served hot. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
FAQ About Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and tend to be more flavorful, making them a great option for these skewers. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for easy skewering and cooking.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating for up to 2 hours will deepen the flavor. Just be careful not to exceed 2 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you need a substitute, nutritional yeast can be a great option for a dairy-free alternative. You can also use Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper flavor, or even a dairy-free Parmesan, if needed.
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover grilled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook and dry them out.
