Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you're searching for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken, you’ve come to the right place. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect meal for a family gathering, summer barbecue, or even a quick weekday dinner. These skewers offer an irresistible blend of juicy chicken, flavorful seasoning, and that irresistible parmesan kick. In this article, you'll get a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make sure your meal is a hit. Read on, and let's get cooking!

What are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an exciting twist on traditional grilled chicken. These skewers feature marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers, which are then grilled or baked to perfection. What sets this dish apart is the flavorful marinade made from garlic, parmesan cheese, herbs, and other seasonings. The parmesan gives a slightly nutty, cheesy richness to the chicken, while the garlic provides a sharp, savory edge. It's a balanced dish that delivers both comfort and sophistication, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need a few simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs (Boneless, skinless): 2 pounds of chicken, cut into bite-sized cubes.
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated. Freshly grated parmesan will melt beautifully into the chicken.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, for the marinade.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, to add brightness to the marinade.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon. This gives a mix of herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a hint of smokiness.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish).
• Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers, soaked in water if using wooden ones.

Substitutions and Variations

If you need to make adjustments based on dietary preferences, available ingredients, or just to change up the flavors, here are some substitution ideas and variations:

• Chicken: You can swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut. You can also use turkey breast for a leaner option.
• Parmesan Cheese: If you're dairy-free, you can use nutritional yeast as a substitute. It gives a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
• Garlic: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic isn’t available, though fresh garlic will provide a more robust flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or even large chunks of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
• Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat, or swap Italian seasoning for specific herbs like rosemary or basil, depending on your taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to dive in? Here are the step-by-step instructions to help you prepare these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.

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

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes. Ensure that the pieces are uniform in size so that they cook evenly. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
2. Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful paste.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Toss everything together so the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, you can let the chicken marinate for 2-3 hours, or even overnight.
4. Preheat the Grill or Oven: If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If you’re baking the skewers, preheat your oven to 400°F.
5. Skewer the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. Avoid crowding the skewers.
6. Grill or Bake the Chicken:
   • Grill: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, turning the skewers occasionally to prevent burning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a nice golden brown color.
   • Bake: Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a golden crust.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill or oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to fall into a few common pitfalls. To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many pieces of chicken on one skewer can result in uneven cooking. Space the pieces apart to ensure they cook evenly.
• Not Soaking Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, they need to be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from catching fire or burning on the grill.
• Skipping the Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to fully develop. Don’t rush this step; the longer you marinate, the better the flavors will be.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken dries out quickly if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, but no more than that.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, presentation can make all the difference. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the cooked skewers on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The bright green parsley and yellow lemon slices add a pop of color, making the dish more visually appealing.
• Side Dishes: Serve the skewers alongside fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan.
• Dipping Sauce: Offer a dipping sauce like a creamy garlic aioli or a tangy marinara to complement the skewers. These sauces add extra flavor and richness to the dish.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

These skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the skewers as a bite-sized appetizer at your next party. You can cut the chicken into smaller pieces for easy snacking.
• Main Course: Serve the skewers as a main dish with sides like garlic bread, a Caesar salad, or roasted potatoes.
• Picnic or BBQ: These skewers are ideal for picnics or BBQs. Pack them up and enjoy them outdoors with family and friends.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Rustic Charm: Serve the skewers on a wooden cutting board for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Individual Plates: For a more formal presentation, serve each guest a single skewer on a plate with a small salad or side dish.
• Skewer Stands: If you have skewer stands or racks, use them to present the skewers vertically. This adds a fun and professional touch to your meal.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips

To make sure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are perfect every time, here are some extra tips:

• Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor. Pre-packaged grated cheese won’t melt as well or taste as fresh.
• Balance the Flavors: If the marinade tastes too garlicky or too cheesy, balance it out with more lemon juice or a touch of honey to add sweetness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling them?
Absolutely! You can bake the skewers at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. They’ll still come out deliciously crispy and flavorful.

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
You can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts will work just as well, especially if you avoid overcooking them.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or oven.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the right combination of garlic, parmesan, and herbs, this recipe brings out the best in grilled chicken. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, cooking for your family, or simply looking for a new dish to try, these skewers are sure to impress. Follow the steps, experiment with variations, and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Print