Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a mix of garlic and Parmesan cheese, then grilled to perfection. Yum!
These skewers are great for picnics or a quick weeknight dinner. I love to serve them with a side of veggies or a salad. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Fresh chicken breast is best for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness. If you want something lighter, avocado oil works well too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a powerful punch. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder, but it won’t be quite as vibrant.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for the best flavor and melt. You can replace it with Pecorino Romano if you like something saltier.
Herbs: I love using fresh herbs when I can, like fresh parsley and oregano. If you don’t have fresh, dried works just fine, just use a bit less than a tablespoon.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it juicy and packed with flavor. You can marinate it for as little as 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for a couple of hours. This allows the garlic and herbs to penetrate the meat.
- Mix together olive oil, garlic, cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper; coat the chicken well.
- Cover and refrigerate; remember, the longer it sits, the better the flavor.
Also, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leaving space between the chicken pieces helps them cook evenly and get that nice grilled finish!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. After that, you’ll need about 10-12 minutes to grill the skewers. In total, you should budget around 1 hour to have the skewers ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for about 30 minutes. This step helps prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this part!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This marinade is what will make your chicken super tasty!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breast to the bowl and toss it around to coat it well with the marinade. Make sure every piece of chicken is covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will add even more flavor!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Getting the grill nice and hot will help cook the chicken evenly and give it a great grilled flavor.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly. Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers!
6. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. The chicken is ready when it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers! They make a great meal or a tasty snack for gatherings.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to your skewers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through compared to breasts. Ensure they still reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to use canola oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter as a substitute. Each will complement the garlic and Parmesan flavors well. Just keep in mind that butter may add a richer taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or briefly on a grill or skillet to maintain their juicy texture. Just ensure they are heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) again.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skewers?
Definitely! Adding bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your skewers. Make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes as the chicken pieces for even cooking. Just remember that you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
