These chicken skewers are loaded with flavor! Marinated in garlic and sprinkled with parmesan, they’re tender and tasty, perfect for a quick meal or a fun BBQ!
Whenever I make these, it feels like a party! I love serving them with a side of veggies or a fresh salad. Who can resist cheesy chicken on a stick? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for juicy skewers. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey breast can be a great substitute, or for a vegetarian option, try firm tofu or mushrooms.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used but start with less as it’s stronger. Personal favorite is roasted garlic for a sweeter, deeper taste!
Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish with better texture and flavor. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. Grapeseed oil or avocado oil can be good substitutes, especially if you need a higher smoke point for grilling.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key! It not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. Make sure to coat every piece thoroughly. If possible, let it sit for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
When grilling, monitor your heat closely. Too high of a heat can dry out the chicken. Aim for medium-high, and don’t overcrowd the grill. This way, the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours for the best flavor.
- Ensure your grill is preheated so the chicken sears nicely.
- Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers for even cooking.
Enjoy making these yummy chicken skewers! They’re great for gatherings or just a cozy dinner at home!
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes of marinating time. Plus, you’ll need about 10 minutes for cooking, making it a total of around 55 minutes from start to finish—so easy and delicious for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, finely chopped parsley, olive oil, lemon juice (if you’re using it), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing them well to coat all sides of the chicken evenly. Once coated, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours for even more flavor!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using the oven, preheat the broiler instead.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring there’s a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and has beautiful grill marks. If you are broiling, place them on a lined baking sheet and broil for about 6-8 minutes per side, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
6. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if you like. This adds a nice touch of flavor and presentation!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken skewers hot, paired with your favorite sides such as a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy the flavorful and cheesy goodness!
These skewers are sure to be a hit! The juicy chicken combined with garlicky, cheesy flavors makes for a perfect dish to share with family and friends any time!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, depending on your preference. Thighs are a bit juicier, while breasts may be leaner. If you want a leaner option, turkey breast can also work nicely!
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano offers a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast will give a cheesy taste without the dairy. Just use about 1/4 cup as a replacement.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on a skillet over low heat, adding a tiny splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance, or even overnight for more flavor. Just assemble and cook right before you plan to serve. You can also fully cook them ahead and reheat when ready to enjoy!
