Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your grilling game with a simple yet flavorful dish? Look no further! This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken, a savory garlic marinade, and a sprinkle of parmesan goodness that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re preparing for a family barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. Read on to learn how to make this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe from start to finish!

What Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious grilled dish featuring marinated chunks of chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. The chicken is seasoned with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then finished with a generous coating of parmesan cheese for an extra boost of flavor. Whether cooked on a grill or in the oven, these skewers offer a mouth-watering blend of juicy chicken, savory garlic, and sharp parmesan. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a simple dinner, this dish is both versatile and delicious.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken breast (or thighs) – 1.5 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
2. Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
3. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
4. Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
5. Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
6. Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
7. Salt – 1 teaspoon
8. Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
9. Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
10. Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional)
11. Skewers – Wooden or metal

This list ensures that your chicken skewers are bursting with flavor from the garlic, herbs, and fresh parmesan cheese. These ingredients work together to create the perfect marinade and seasoning for grilling.

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Ingredients List for the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Butter – 3 tablespoons
2. Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, finely grated
3. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
4. Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
5. Lemon zest – ½ teaspoon
6. Salt – a pinch
7. Black pepper – a pinch

The Garlic Parmesan sauce adds an extra layer of richness and flavor to the skewers after grilling. This buttery, cheesy mixture will have everyone reaching for seconds!

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Substitutions and Variations

While the original recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to fit your taste or dietary preferences:

1. Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts – If you prefer more tender and juicy meat, you can swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and less likely to dry out when grilled.
2. Herb Variations – If you’re not a fan of parsley, you can substitute it with fresh basil, cilantro, or even rosemary for a different herbal note.
3. Spicy Skewers – For those who enjoy a kick of heat, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or even a splash of hot sauce to the garlic parmesan sauce.
4. Vegetarian Version – You can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarians by using firm tofu or paneer instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu or paneer in the same garlic parmesan mixture and grill it just like you would with chicken.
5. Panko for Extra Crunch – If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can coat the chicken in some panko breadcrumbs along with the parmesan before grilling.
6. Grilled Veggie Skewers – Add some vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to your skewers for a colorful, healthy addition.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

1. Marinate the Chicken – In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Prepare the Skewers – If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, skip this step.
3. Thread the Chicken – After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill or Oven – Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or your oven to 425°F if you’re baking the skewers.
5. Grill the Skewers – Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure all sides are evenly browned. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If using an oven, bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce – While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and parsley. Remove from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese.
7. Coat the Skewers – Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the grill and immediately brush them with the warm garlic parmesan sauce. Make sure to coat them generously for extra flavor.

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How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Marinate the Chicken: Let the flavors penetrate the chicken by marinating it with garlic, olive oil, lemon, and herbs for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Soak wooden skewers or get metal skewers ready.
3. Thread and Grill: Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill for 12-15 minutes, turning often.
4. Make the Sauce: Melt butter with garlic and stir in parmesan and herbs.
5. Finish: Coat the grilled skewers with the parmesan garlic sauce for that final flavor kick.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Marinating Long Enough – If you rush the marinating process, the chicken won’t absorb all the delicious flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours, as too much marinating can make the chicken mushy.
2. Overcrowding the Skewers – If you pack the chicken too tightly on the skewers, it won’t cook evenly. Leave space between the pieces to allow even heat distribution.
3. Cooking at Too High a Heat – Grilling on too high of heat can burn the outside of the chicken while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to medium-high heat for juicy, tender results.
4. Skipping the Skewer Soak – If using wooden skewers, always remember to soak them in water beforehand to avoid burning on the grill.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

To take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers to the next level, try these serving and presentation tips:

• Garnish with Extra Parmesan and Herbs – After brushing the chicken with the garlic parmesan sauce, sprinkle more freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley on top for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces – Offer a side of garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or a tangy lemon yogurt dip for guests to enjoy with the skewers.
• Pair with a Fresh Salad – Serve the skewers alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

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How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

You can serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in various ways, depending on the occasion:

1. As an Appetizer – Serve the skewers on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing during a party or barbecue.
2. As a Main Course – Pair the skewers with side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
3. In Wraps or Sandwiches – Remove the chicken from the skewers and use it as a filling for pita wraps or sandwiches. Add some fresh veggies and a drizzle of garlic sauce for an easy, delicious meal.

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Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Rustic Platter – Serve the skewers on a large wooden board or stone platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Colorful Veggies – Alternate chicken cubes with grilled vegetables like cherry tomatoes and zucchini for a pop of color and a healthy twist.
• Individual Servings – Present each skewer on a small plate with a side of dipping sauce for a more formal dinner presentation.

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips

1. Don’t Skimp on the Sauce – Be generous with the garlic parmesan sauce after grilling, as it’s the key to a flavorful finish.
2. Keep an Eye on the Grill – Chicken can cook quickly on the grill, so watch it closely to prevent overcooking or burning.
3. Make-Ahead Option – You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and refrigerate it, making dinner prep even easier the next day.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought parmesan instead of freshly grated?
A: Yes, but freshly grated parmesan gives a much better flavor and texture for this recipe.

Q: Can I cook the skewers in the oven instead of on the grill?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the skewers for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
A: Make sure to oil the grill grates before cooking and let the chicken cook for a few minutes before attempting to flip it.

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Conclusion

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up these incredibly flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re grilling for a party or prepping a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a surefire hit. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and juicy chicken is hard to resist, and with plenty of opportunities for customization, you can make this dish your own. Try it out and watch your family and friends rave about this delicious dish!

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