If you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that will impress your guests or satisfy your weeknight cravings, look no further than these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Packed with bold flavors, this dish combines tender, juicy chicken with the rich and savory taste of garlic and parmesan cheese. Whether you're grilling for a summer BBQ or baking in the oven during the cooler months, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Read on to discover how to create this mouthwatering dish, and don’t forget to check out all the tips and variations to make this recipe your own!

What are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple yet flavorful dish where chunks of marinated chicken breast are threaded onto skewers, grilled or baked, and generously coated with a mixture of garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. The result is a savory, cheesy, and garlicky bite that is both juicy and crispy. This recipe is a perfect option for appetizers, a light dinner, or even meal prepping. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these skewers are sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To make this delicious recipe, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced (feel free to adjust based on your preference for garlic)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
- Olive Oil: ¼ cup (helps coat the chicken and enhance the flavor)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (for a touch of brightness)
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (for a hint of spice)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Wooden or Metal Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Ingredients List for the Marinade
The key to any great skewer recipe is in the marinade. A well-marinated chicken ensures tenderness and locks in flavor. Here's what you'll need for the marinade:
- Olive Oil: ¼ cup (acts as a base for the marinade and keeps the chicken juicy)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (for a strong garlic flavor)
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (brings a hint of Mediterranean flavor)
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (for a mild kick, optional)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste (essential for seasoning the meat)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- Red Onion: 1 small red onion, cut into chunks to alternate with chicken on the skewers
- Zucchini or Bell Peppers: Cut into chunks for a colorful and healthy addition
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is its versatility. You can easily substitute ingredients or add extra flavors based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker, juicier meat, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with cubes of tofu or halloumi cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Low-Carb: To keep it keto-friendly, avoid adding starchy sides and serve the skewers with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Herb Swaps: Use basil, thyme, or rosemary instead of parsley to vary the herb flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure your parmesan and any additional sauces are certified gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's walk through the simple steps to create these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor will be.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven
If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, alternating with chunks of vegetables if using, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
Step 5: Grill or Bake the Skewers
- Grilling Method: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
- Oven Method: Arrange the skewers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through. For extra crispiness, broil the skewers for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Coating
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the coating. In a small bowl, mix together the grated parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Set aside.
Step 7: Coat the Cooked Skewers
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven. While they are still hot, generously coat them with the garlic parmesan mixture, pressing it onto the chicken so it sticks.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Marinade: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and spices in a bowl.
- Marinate Chicken: Let chicken cubes soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat Grill/Oven: Set grill to medium-high or preheat oven to 400°F.
- Thread Skewers: Alternate chicken with vegetables if desired.
- Cook Skewers: Grill or bake until cooked through and charred.
- Coat with Parmesan: Mix garlic, parmesan, and parsley; press onto cooked skewers.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately while the parmesan coating is still warm and fragrant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-marinating the chicken: Don’t marinate the chicken for more than 4 hours. The lemon juice can start to break down the meat, making it mushy.
- Skipping the skewer soak: If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Not monitoring the grill: Chicken can overcook quickly on the grill. Keep a close eye on the skewers to avoid drying out the meat.
- Undercooking the chicken: Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few tips:
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Serve your skewers fresh off the grill with a side of lemon wedges for extra zest. Pair them with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread for a hearty meal. These skewers also work great as an appetizer or as part of a larger BBQ spread.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Platter Style: Arrange the skewers on a large platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a vibrant, restaurant-style presentation.
- Individual Plates: Serve two or three skewers per plate, drizzled with extra olive oil or a balsamic reduction for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan over the top for a fresh, colorful garnish.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips
- Use fresh parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan has a much better texture and flavor than pre-packaged varieties.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give your skewers plenty of space to cook evenly and get that desirable char.
- Double the recipe for meal prep: These skewers are perfect for meal prepping. Store them in the fridge for up to four days and reheat them as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving when cooking, so they’re a great option.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 4 hours.
Can I bake these instead of grilling them?
Yes! Baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes works well, and broiling at the end gives them a nice crispy finish.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to grill or bake the skewers just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
How do I know the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should read 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an easy-to-make, flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you're grilling outdoors or baking in your oven, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich blend of garlic and parmesan. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that's sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. Happy cooking!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful bites of grilled chicken, coated in a mouthwatering garlic-Parmesan marinade. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal, packed with protein and perfect for any outdoor gathering or weeknight dinner. Keywords: garlic Parmesan chicken skewers, grilled chicken skewers, BBQ chicken recipe, easy dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling or Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade, coat evenly, and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill skewers over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 4 oz)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
Leave a Reply