Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple and tasty way to enjoy juicy chicken pieces coated in a flavorful mix of garlic and Parmesan cheese. These skewers are packed with savory goodness and have just the right hint of garlic to keep things interesting without overpowering the chicken. The Parmesan adds a slightly nutty, cheesy flavor that makes every bite deliciously satisfying.
I love making these skewers when I want something quick but still feel like I’m treating myself to a nice meal. They’re great for grilling or baking, and I usually sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top right before serving to make them extra cheesy. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I always find that the garlic and cheese combo brings out the best in the chicken, making it juicy and packed with flavor.
These skewers work perfectly for a casual dinner or a weekend get-together. I like serving them with a fresh salad or some grilled veggies on the side. They’re also great dipped in a little ranch or your favorite sauce if you want an extra touch. Whenever I make these, everyone ends up asking for seconds, so consider making a double batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts give you lean, tender bites, but thighs add extra juiciness. I like thighs for extra flavor, but either works great here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really makes the marinade shine. You can use garlic powder if needed, but fresh gives the best taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor and helps create a nice crust. Pre-grated works too but freshly grated melts better.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist and carries the flavors. You can swap for avocado or any mild vegetable oil.
Italian Seasoning: This mix adds herbs like oregano and basil. If you don’t have it, just use your favorite dried herbs separately.
How Can I Get Juicy Chicken with a Perfectly Crispy Coating?
Getting juicy chicken that’s well coated is all about proper marinating and cooking:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the garlic, cheese, and herbs soak into the chicken. Up to 2 hours is even better.
- Thread chicken on skewers with a little space between pieces, so heat circulates evenly and cooks through without steaming.
- Grill over medium-high heat to get a slightly charred outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Turn carefully every 4-5 minutes, avoiding overcooking. Chicken is done at 165°F or when juices run clear.
- Finish with extra Parmesan and parsley to keep flavors fresh and vibrant.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I like it because it gives the chicken nice grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Wooden or metal skewers – Wooden ones should soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Mixing bowls – For tossing the chicken in marinade and for prep work.
- Brush or tongs – To turn the skewers carefully on the grill without piercing the chicken.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – To check that the chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and juiciness. They hold up better on the grill.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick — perfect for spice lovers.
- Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the marinade for a Mediterranean twist.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper or paprika for extra color and a slight smoky heat.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to marinate, and 10 minutes to cook. In total, plan for around 50 minutes, including marinating time to let the flavors soak in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice. Stir everything together well to combine all the flavors.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add your chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are nicely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time. This helps the chicken soak up all those delicious tastes.
3. Prepare and Cook the Skewers:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, giving a little space between them to help the heat circulate evenly.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Turn carefully to keep the chicken intact. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the skewers off the grill and, if you like, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan and fresh parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve your garlic Parmesan chicken skewers hot with some fresh salad, grilled veggies, or rice for a tasty meal everyone will enjoy.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first in the fridge overnight. Pat the chicken dry before marinating to avoid extra moisture that can affect the grill’s sear.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is great to get good flavor. If you have more time, marinate up to 2 hours for even more garlicky, cheesy goodness.
Can I Bake These Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain juicy chicken and flavorful coating.