Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is the answer. Tender, juicy chicken chunks are marinated in a savory garlic and Parmesan mixture, then grilled to perfection on skewers for a flavor-packed dish. These skewers are versatile, quick to prepare, and pair beautifully with a variety of sides like grilled vegetables, salads, or rice. Get ready to impress your guests or family with this mouthwatering chicken skewer recipe!

What Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers feature chunks of marinated chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled until golden and juicy. The marinade, made with fresh garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and herbs, infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors. The grilling process adds a smoky, charred element, making these skewers irresistible. They are perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even a party snack.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into 1-inch cubes for skewering.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for the best flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: For a robust garlic flavor.
• ¼ cup olive oil: Helps coat the chicken and adds richness.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a hint of smokiness and color.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional): For garnish.
• Wooden or metal skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

Substitutions and Variations

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are easily customizable. Here are some variations and substitutions:

• Chicken Thighs: For juicier skewers, swap chicken breasts with boneless, skinless thighs.
• Cheese Alternatives: You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use a combination of dried oregano, thyme, and basil. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary also work well.
• Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers under the broiler in your oven or use a grill pan on the stovetop.
• Add Vegetables: Add chunks of bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts or thighs into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large bowl or a zip-top bag.
2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

1. Soak the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Thread the Chicken: After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. If desired, alternate the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers or onions.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop if you don’t have a grill.
2. Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
3. Baste with Marinade: If you reserved some of the marinade (before adding the chicken), you can baste the chicken during grilling for extra flavor. Just make sure the marinade doesn’t touch raw chicken if you plan to baste.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from the Grill: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cut the chicken into cubes and marinate with garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings.

Step 2: Soak wooden skewers if using, then thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.

Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot with your choice of sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marination: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. Don’t skip this step if you want the best flavor.
2. Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked. Make sure to grill the skewers just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Not Soaking Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
4. Overcrowding the Skewers: Leave a little space between each chicken piece on the skewer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Over Rice: Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy white rice or seasoned rice pilaf for a hearty meal.
• With a Salad: Pair the skewers with a light, refreshing side salad, like a Greek salad or a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad.
• With Grilled Veggies: Add some grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or onions to the skewers or serve them as a side dish.
• As a Wrap: Turn the chicken skewers into a wrap by removing the chicken from the skewers and placing it in warm pita bread with lettuce, cucumber, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Family-Style Platter: Arrange the skewers on a large platter with grilled vegetables or a side of rice. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
• Individual Plates: Serve each person their own skewers, with sides like a fresh salad, roasted potatoes, or couscous.
• Party-Style: For a crowd, serve the skewers as an appetizer or snack on a platter with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or tzatziki.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Rustic Platter: Serve the skewers on a wooden board or platter with lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh parsley or basil for a rustic, inviting presentation.
• Grill Marks Display: Display the skewers with visible grill marks on a white plate for a clean, modern look. Serve alongside a colorful salad for contrast.
• On a Skewer Stand: For a party or gathering, serve the skewers upright on a skewer stand for an elegant and eye-catching presentation.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan can sometimes be too dry and won’t melt as well into the marinade.
• Marinate for Longer: For more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
• Make it Ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before for convenience, then just skewer and grill when you’re ready to cook.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and marinate it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to grill. You can also assemble the skewers a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge.

Q: Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

Q: What can I serve as a dipping sauce?
A: These skewers pair well with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, tzatziki sauce, or even a lemon yogurt dip. The creamy texture of these sauces complements the garlic Parmesan flavor beautifully.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before threading onto skewers and grilling.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for grilling season or any time you’re craving something savory and delicious. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs gives the chicken a mouthwatering flavor, while grilling adds a smoky, charred finish. Whether you serve them with a side of veggies, over rice, or as part of a wrap, these skewers are versatile and sure to please. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these delicious, juicy skewers at your next meal or BBQ!

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