These chicken skewers are packed with flavor from garlic and parmesan cheese! They’re easy to make, grilled to perfection, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or dinner at home.
I love serving these skewers with a side of dipping sauce. It’s such a hit with family and friends! Just watch how quickly they disappear—everyone wants seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their moistness, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you prefer a lighter option, use turkey breast cut into chunks instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but start with less since it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy flavor. If you’re vegetarian, substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a plant-based version.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are classic choices, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them. Basil or a mix of Italian herbs would be lovely!
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Skewers?
The secret to juicy chicken skewers is all in the marinating process. Make sure to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, go for 1 to 2 hours. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply and keeps the chicken moist.
- Mix your marinade well so it coats every piece of chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; give the chicken pieces room for even cooking.
- Use high heat for a quick sear that locks in juices, cooking just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or substitute with Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on your grill. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. So, total time is around 1 hour if you include marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined into a creamy marinade. This will give the chicken plenty of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour for the best taste.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
Once your chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Grab your soaked wooden or metal skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is slightly charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This should take about 10-15 minutes total.
5. Serve:
Carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving plate. To make them even more delicious, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy:
Serve the chicken skewers immediately while they’re hot. They go great with your favorite dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or some grilled vegetables on the side!
These chicken skewers are juicy and bursting with the bright flavors of garlic and Parmesan. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the water bath method by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for faster results.
What if I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
Can These Skewers Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the marinated chicken in the fridge until you’re ready to thread them onto skewers and grill.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or in the microwave for quick reheating.
