Looking for a simple yet flavor-packed recipe that will impress your family or guests? Look no further than these irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. They’re tender, juicy, and infused with the savory taste of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for grilling or baking, these skewers can be a great addition to your dinner table or a hit at your next BBQ. Whether you're an experienced cook or just getting started, this step-by-step guide will make sure your skewers come out perfectly every time. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know, from ingredients to presentation tips!
What are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are deliciously seasoned pieces of chicken threaded onto skewers, marinated with a blend of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese. The chicken is either grilled or baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior with tender and juicy insides. This dish is packed with bold flavors from the garlic and parmesan, combined with subtle herbs, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with salads, over rice, or with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To prepare these mouthwatering skewers, you'll need a few basic ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here's a list of the main ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts (or Chicken Thighs): 1.5 lbs (680 grams), cut into bite-sized cubes
- Parmesan Cheese (grated): ½ cup
- Garlic Cloves (minced): 4-5 cloves, for a rich garlic flavor
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, to help bind the marinade
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, for brightness and a hint of tanginess
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): 2 tablespoons, for fresh herbal notes
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the Mediterranean flavors
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a mild kick and extra color
- Wooden or Metal Skewers: if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
Additional Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
While the core ingredients mentioned above are essential, you can add extra elements to further enhance the flavor or tailor it to your taste. Here are some ideas:
- Red Chili Flakes: Add a pinch for some heat if you like a bit of spice.
- Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, lightly coat the chicken pieces in breadcrumbs before grilling.
- Butter: Replace a tablespoon of olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Shallots: Finely minced shallots can add a mild sweetness and depth to the marinade.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Replace the lemon juice with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a more complex tangy note.
- Fresh Basil or Thyme: In place of or in addition to parsley, fresh herbs can give a different twist to the skewers.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or simply don’t have a particular ingredient on hand, here are some helpful substitutions and variations:
- Chicken Substitution: If you prefer, you can use turkey breast, pork tenderloin, or even shrimp in place of chicken. Each will take on the marinade differently but will still deliver delicious results.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu or paneer cubes. These plant-based options absorb the flavors well and hold up on the grill.
- Cheese Variations: Instead of parmesan, you could use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or Grana Padano for a milder taste.
- Grilling vs. Baking: If you don’t have access to a grill, don’t worry—these skewers can easily be baked in the oven. If grilling is an option, though, you’ll achieve a wonderful smoky char.
- Vegetable Add-ons: Consider adding some veggies onto your skewers, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions for added color, flavor, and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, it's time to prepare the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them until they’re evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill or Bake:
- For grilling, 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 a slight char on the edges.
- For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, arrange the skewers on the sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Optional Finishing Touch: For extra crispiness, broil the skewers for an additional 2-3 minutes in the oven or baste with extra parmesan and garlic butter during grilling.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is a breeze if you follow these steps:
- Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Whether you’re using a grill, stovetop grill pan, or oven, preheat to ensure even cooking. For grills, aim for medium-high heat.
- Thread Chicken onto Skewers: Once your chicken has marinated for at least 30 minutes, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Be sure to space out the chicken pieces slightly so they cook evenly on all sides.
- Cook the Skewers: Grill or bake your skewers, flipping them once or twice to achieve an even cook on all sides. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- Rest the Skewers: After cooking, allow the skewers to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring tender chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Keep a close eye on the skewers to avoid overcooking the chicken, as this can result in dry, tough meat.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Don’t skip the marinating process—it’s key for infusing the chicken with flavor.
- Crowding the Grill: If you're grilling, avoid overcrowding the skewers. Giving them enough space ensures they cook evenly and get that nice char.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with complementary sides for a balanced meal. Here are some ideas:
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the rich garlic-parmesan flavor.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a healthy and colorful side dish.
- Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of garlic aioli, tzatziki, or ranch dressing for dipping.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
You can serve these skewers straight from the grill or oven for casual dining, or remove the chicken from the skewers and plate it neatly for a more refined presentation. For family-style dinners, arrange the skewers on a large platter with your favorite sides and garnishes.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
For an eye-catching presentation, consider:
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or grated parmesan over the top before serving.
- Color Contrast: Serve the skewers on a white plate with colorful sides, such as roasted vegetables or a vibrant salad.
- Lemon Wedges: Include lemon wedges on the plate for an extra pop of brightness and flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips
- Marinate in Advance: For even better flavor, marinate the chicken the night before.
- Use Fresh Garlic and Parmesan: For the best taste, use freshly minced garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re grilling, make sure to soak the skewers to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and assemble the skewers right before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Q: What other proteins can I use for this recipe?
A: Shrimp, pork tenderloin, or tofu are great alternatives to chicken in this recipe.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a fantastic dish that combines bold flavors with simple preparation. Whether you're grilling them outdoors or baking them in the oven, these skewers are sure to be a hit. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll create juicy, tender chicken with crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, summer BBQs, or even meal prep, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. Try it today and impress everyone with your culinary skills!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
This garlic parmesan chicken skewer recipe features juicy, marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. Coated in a garlic and Parmesan mixture, these skewers are packed with flavor and easy to prepare. They’re perfect for a summer BBQ, family dinners, or as a fun appetizer. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (+ marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
- Cover and marinate the chicken in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure to leave space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
- You can also bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx. ¼ lb chicken)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
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