There's something magical about the savory aroma of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers sizzling on the grill. The juicy, tender chicken combined with the rich, cheesy flavor of Parmesan and the bold bite of garlic creates an irresistible combination that will have everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting for their turn.

I first whipped up this recipe on a whim during a summer cookout, trying to break away from the usual burgers and hot dogs. Since that day, these skewers have become a staple at all our gatherings, from casual weeknight dinners to big family barbecues.

Let’s dive right into why you’ll want to make these skewers part of your regular rotation.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Get ready to discover your new favorite chicken recipe. These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers check all the boxes for flavor, ease, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

First off, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these skewers marinating in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

The flavors are out of this world. The combination of fresh garlic, grated Parmesan, and a touch of Italian seasoning creates a savory profile that’s both comforting and elevated. Every bite bursts with cheesy, garlicky goodness.

They’re also quite budget-friendly. Chicken breast or thighs are affordable cuts of meat, and the remaining ingredients are likely already in your pantry. Feeding a family or a small gathering won’t break the bank.

Lastly, these skewers are incredibly versatile. You can grill them outdoors, cook them on a grill pan indoors, or even bake them in the oven if the weather isn’t cooperating. Plus, they pair beautifully with a variety of sides, from salads to pastas to roasted veggies.

Now that you’re convinced, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering flavor profile.

The star of the show is the chicken. I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean, tender qualities. If you prefer a richer, juicier bite, boneless thighs are an excellent alternative that can add a bit more flavor thanks to their higher fat content.

Next up is the garlic. Freshly minced garlic is essential here. Its pungent aroma and sharp, savory notes are what give this dish its signature boldness. If you’re in a pinch, pre-minced garlic will work, but fresh is always best for maximum flavor.

The Parmesan cheese is what takes these skewers over the top. I highly recommend grating your own from a wedge of Parmesan rather than using pre-shredded varieties. The freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and delivers a nutty, salty richness that binds the marinade together.

To round out the seasoning, I include Italian seasoning and olive oil. The Italian herbs bring in a subtle earthiness while the olive oil helps infuse the chicken with moisture and flavor during marination and cooking.

For equipment, you’ll need either metal or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. A grill or grill pan is ideal, but an oven broiler works well if you’re cooking indoors.

How To Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Creating these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is a breeze. Let me walk you through the simple process.

Start by preparing the chicken. Trim any excess fat and cut the chicken into evenly sized cubes, about 1 to 1½ inches. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy on the skewers.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together to create a rich, flavorful marinade.

Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them thoroughly to ensure each piece is coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, letting the chicken marinate for 2-3 hours will deepen the flavor even more.

While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers if you’re using them. Once the chicken is ready, thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and develops a light golden char with crispy edges.

From start to finish, the entire process takes about 45 minutes, including marination. The result? Perfectly tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken skewers that are sure to impress.

Storage Options

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers store wonderfully, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have leftovers, allow the skewers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days without losing their juicy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken off the skewers. Place the chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the chicken in a covered skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying out the meat. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers means you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. The heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy Parmesan and bold garlic.

If you’re looking to add some vegetables, consider alternating pieces of bell pepper, zucchini, or red onion between the chicken cubes on the skewers. This not only adds color but also extra nutrients and flavor.

For a different cheese profile, try swapping Parmesan for Pecorino Romano. It has a sharper, saltier taste that complements the garlic beautifully.

Should you prefer a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast makes an excellent Parmesan substitute, providing a cheesy flavor without the lactose.

And of course, don’t be afraid to experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for a vibrant, garden-fresh twist.