These chicken skewers are juicy, tasty, and super easy to make! Marinated with garlic and sprinkled with parmesan, they are full of flavor.
Trust me, they won’t last long on the grill! Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun party snack. I love serving them with some fresh veggies on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast works well as a substitute!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful punch to the skewers. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove you would replace.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Herbs: Italian herbs add a classic flavor to the dish. Fresh herbs are always great, but if you only have dried herbs, the ratio is about 1 teaspoon dried for every tablespoon of fresh.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken skewers juicy, marinating is the key. Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better! Here’s a simple way to marinade effectively:
- Use a sealed plastic bag or a bowl to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated evenly.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken; it helps the flavors really seep in.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and prevents steaming.
Also, avoid overcooking! Removing the skewers from the grill when they reach 165°F (75°C) ensures the chicken stays tender and delicious. Enjoy your skewers fresh off the grill for the best taste!
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a fresh touch)
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs or mixed dried herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken in the fridge (1-2 hours for best flavor). Next, you’ll need about 10-12 minutes for grilling. In total, you’re looking at roughly 1-2 hours and 30 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice (if you’re using it), dried herbs, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed to create a tasty marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them well so they’re all coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—if you have time, 1-2 hours is even better for the flavors to soak in!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to achieve that lovely char and locking in the juices.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge and thread the marinated pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a small gap between the pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Turn them gently until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) with nice char marks on the outside.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving plate. While they’re still warm, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top for that lovely finishing touch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the skewers immediately with your favorite side dishes like grilled vegetables, salad, or rice. Enjoy these flavorful Garlic and Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Breast or Thigh Meat for These Skewers?
Absolutely! Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work great. Breasts are leaner, while thighs are juicier. Choose based on your preference!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a fantastic way to deepen the flavor. Just make sure to cover it well in the fridge!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also quickly reheat them in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a refreshing salad, or rice. You can also serve them with dips like tzatziki or ranch for added flavor!
