If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy enough to whip up any day of the week, you’re going to absolutely love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken cubes are marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs, then grilled to perfection and finished with a generous sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. It’s the kind of recipe that feels gourmet but comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients — perfect for casual family dinners, fun gatherings with friends, or even meal prep with a tasty twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe are straightforward but essential. Each one plays its part in building a flavor profile that’s bright, herbaceous, and satisfyingly cheesy. From the succulent chicken breasts providing a tender base, to garlic and lemon that add zing, every component makes this dish a standout.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken for juicy, tender skewers that soak up the marinade beautifully.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken while adding a rich, fruity note.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and a subtle tang that balances the richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor, giving the skewers a punch of aromatic goodness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Brings just a hint of heat to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, Mediterranean vibe.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top to create that signature savory finish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal brightness that complements the cheese.
- Metal or wooden skewers: If using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes first to prevent burning on the grill.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Making sure they’re roughly the same size is key because it helps the chicken cook evenly and finish at the same time. This little detail makes a big difference in texture and juiciness.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined. This aromatic marinade not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it, giving that melt-in-your-mouth quality you’ll love.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until every piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours to deepen those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Get the Grill Ready
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat setting. If grilling isn’t an option, a grill pan or even a large skillet will do the trick just as well. The goal here is to get those appealing sear marks and a little char that amps up the flavor.
Step 5: Skewer the Chicken
Carefully thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers. Leave a tiny bit of space in between each piece — this helps the heat circulate and cook the chicken through evenly without steaming.
Step 6: Grill to Perfection
Place your skewers on the grill and cook each side for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for cooked-through chicken with a beautiful golden-brown char and clear grill marks. It’s a sign those vibrant flavors are locked in and the chicken is perfectly juicy.
Step 7: Prepare the Parmesan Topping
While the chicken is grilling, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with fresh parsley in a small bowl. This simple mixture adds an irresistible finishing touch that melts gently over the hot chicken, creating a cheesy, herb-packed layer bursting with flavor.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving platter, then immediately sprinkle the Parmesan and parsley mixture over the hot chicken to let it melt slightly. That final step is where everything really comes together, giving you savory, fragrant skewers that are impossible to resist.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra zest by garnishing these skewers with lemon wedges or a dusting of additional Parmesan. If you want to amp up the color and freshness, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or basil does wonders, making every bite feel bright and inviting.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with crisp salads, like a simple mixed green salad or a vibrant Greek salad. For something heartier, consider garlic mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or even a fluffy couscous or quinoa salad. The possibilities are endless and all complement the rich, garlicky flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside warm pita bread with tzatziki. You can also thread cherry tomatoes, red onions, or bell peppers between the chicken for added color and texture. Presentation is key when sharing this dish with friends or family!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep these skewers longer, freeze them before adding the Parmesan topping. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stash in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet or oven to keep the chicken juicy and the Parmesan topping deliciously melty. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent drying out the chicken, and warm it just until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit fattier and can offer even more juicy, tender bites. Just be sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Do I have to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning or catching fire on the grill. Metal skewers do not require soaking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is enough to infuse flavor, but if you can give it 1 to 2 hours, the chicken will be even more flavorful and tender.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Parmesan cheese and check that any additional sauces or sides you serve with it are gluten-free.
What’s a good dipping sauce for these skewers?
Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even a zesty tzatziki sauce pair beautifully with these skewers, adding an extra layer of creaminess and freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is truly one of those dishes that you’ll find yourself making again and again because it’s easy, flavorful, and just downright satisfying. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or part of a weekend barbecue, the combination of garlic, lemon, herbs, and Parmesan is simply irresistible. So fire up the grill, grab your skewers, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that feels like a celebration every time.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 30m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make grilled dish featuring tender chicken breast marinated in a zesty mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then topped with a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, these skewers deliver juicy, cheesy goodness with every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Additional
- Metal or wooden skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Stir well to mix thoroughly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours to deepen the flavor.
- Preheat Grill or Skillet: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If a grill is not available, use a large skillet or grill pan as an alternative.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces carefully onto the skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even heat circulation.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and has appealing grill marks.
- Prepare Parmesan Topping: While grilling, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley in a small bowl.
- Add Topping and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving platter. Immediately sprinkle the Parmesan and parsley mixture generously over the hot skewers so the cheese melts slightly.
- Enjoy: Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauces or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken up to 2 hours but not longer to avoid texture changes.
- If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan works well to achieve similar results.
- Serve with sides like a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain juiciness.
