Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-488088H42M37S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness); 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes; Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soaked in water for 15 minutes)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with a burst of flavor in every bite, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. This recipe brings together the creamy richness of parmesan and ranch dressing, the unmistakable punch of garlic, and just the right hint of herbs and lemon to brighten things up. Perfect for grilling season or anytime you crave a satisfying meal that feels both special and effortlessly easy, these skewers will charm your taste buds and impress everyone gathered around the table.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe plays a crucial role, creating a perfect balance of flavors while keeping the preparation seamless and straightforward. From creamy ranch dressing to zesty lemon juice, the lineup is simple but packs a punch both in taste and texture.

Ranch dressing (1/2 cup): Adds creamy tang and herbs that tenderize the chicken beautifully.
Grated parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Brings a savory, slightly nutty flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Keeps the chicken moist and helps all the flavors meld together.
Minced garlic (3 cloves): Delivers that bold, aromatic punch that garlic lovers dream of.
Dried or fresh parsley (1 teaspoon): Brightens the marinade with a hint of herbal freshness.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and seasoning depth.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the garlic flavor in a gentle, balanced way.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon, optional): Lifts the marinade with a zingy brightness.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1.5 pounds): The tender protein base, cut into 1-inch cubes for even grilling.
Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for grilling, with wooden ones soaked beforehand to prevent burning.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

Start by whisking together ranch dressing, grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and optional lemon juice in a medium bowl. This vibrant marinade is the secret behind the deep flavors of the skewers, so make sure everything is combined well for a luscious coating.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

Submerge your chicken cubes into the marinade, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. This step is where the ingredients work their magic, infusing flavor and tenderizing the meat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on how much time you have—longer marination only means more flavor!

Step 3: Prepare skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto each skewer, leaving little spaces between pieces to allow even cooking and those irresistible grill marks.

Step 4: Grill to perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes to get a beautiful char on all sides and ensure the chicken cooks through. The aroma will be incredible as the parmesan crisps and garlic flavors deepen.

Step 5: Rest and garnish

Once cooked, let the skewers rest a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite juicy. For that final touch, sprinkle extra grated parmesan or fresh parsley on top—trust me, it’s worth it!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishing elevates the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe beautifully. Fresh parsley adds vibrant color and freshness, while a dusting of extra parmesan cheese on top intensifies the savory notes. You could also squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the skewers for a fresh, zesty lift just before serving.

Side Dishes

These garlic parmesan skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think crisp green salads with vinaigrette to balance richness, garlicky roasted potatoes that echo the flavors in the chicken, or even a light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. Consider serving them with grilled vegetables for a wholesome and colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the skewers over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a grain bowl featuring quinoa, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. If you’re hosting a party, arrange the skewers on a beautiful wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like tzatziki or a spicy aioli to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe, simply place the skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken skewered helps maintain its moisture and flavor during storage.

Freezing

These skewers freeze well if you want to prepare ahead of time. After grilling and cooling, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, use a grill or a skillet over medium heat to warm the skewers gently without drying them out. Alternatively, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes works nicely. Avoid microwaving to preserve their juicy texture and crisp grilled edges.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a fantastic choice because they stay juicy and tender when grilled. Both breasts and thighs work perfectly, so pick whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Do I have to use ranch dressing for the marinade?

Ranch dressing is key to capturing that creamy, herby flavor in this recipe, but if you want to make it from scratch or substitute it with a similar creamy herb dressing, that works too! Just make sure to keep the balance of flavors for the best results.

Can I make these skewers in the oven instead of the grill?

Yes, if grilling is not an option, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to get a nice color and ensure even cooking.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes if you’re short on time, but for the deepest flavor, aim for 1 to 2 hours. Overnight marination isn’t necessary but won’t harm the texture.

Are these skewers kid-friendly?

Definitely! The familiar flavors of garlic, parmesan, and ranch make these skewers a hit with kids and adults alike. Just make sure to cut the chicken into small, manageable pieces for little hands.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about sharing a plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe with friends and family. The blend of creamy parmesan, bold garlic, and tender grilled chicken comes together in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or your next backyard gathering, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes (including marinating)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers featuring tender chunks of chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, grilled to perfection for a juicy and savory meal perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and optional lemon juice until fully combined.
Marinate Chicken: Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to let the flavors infuse.
Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken evenly onto the skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece for even cooking.
Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure proper cooking and a nice char on the chicken.
Grill Chicken Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred on all sides.
Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra grated parmesan or chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot for best flavor.

Notes

Marinating the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness.
If you do not have a grill, these skewers can be cooked under a broiler or on a grill pan indoors.
Ensure wooden skewers are fully soaked to avoid burning on the grill.
Use boneless skinless thighs for more juicy and flavorful results or breasts for a leaner option.
Leftover skewers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course, Grilled
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American