These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are super tasty! They’re made with juicy chicken pieces coated in garlic, cheese, and herbs, then grilled to perfection—yum!
Aren’t skewers just the funnest way to eat? I love how easy they are to whip up and how everyone can pick their own! Perfect for BBQs or cozy dinners. 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! You can substitute chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. Both work well, but thighs might need slightly longer cooking time.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor but feel free to use regular olive oil or even avocado oil for a milder taste. They’re perfect for grilling too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely punch of flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use jarred minced garlic or garlic powder. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works great, giving a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Herbs: The mix of oregano and basil is fantastic. You can replace them with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key! Allowing the chicken to soak in the flavorful mix makes a big difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is ideal if you have time for it.
- Make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; space the chicken pieces a little to promote even cooking.
- Turn the skewers regularly on the grill for consistent cooking and those appealing grill marks.
- Check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken pieces – it should be 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Other:
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and a marinating time of at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). Cooking the chicken skewers on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. So, plan for a total of about 1 hour, depending on your marinating time. Easy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade, making sure all the pieces are well-coated. Once it’s all mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. If you have a little more time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remember to soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once your chicken is marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a little space between the pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to get nice grill marks and to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers hot, with your favorite dipping sauce if you like!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add extra juiciness to your skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly if they are larger than the breast pieces.
What If I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No problem! If you have metal skewers, they work perfectly. Just remember to oil them lightly to prevent sticking. If you don’t have skewers at all, you can grill the chicken on a grill pan or directly on the grill grates — just be sure to cut the chicken into cubes for easy handling.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to deepen the flavors. Just ensure that you store it in an airtight container or covered bowl in the refrigerator. Just be mindful that if you marinate for too long, the texture may change slightly due to the acidity from the garlic and olive oil.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help maintain their juiciness and flavor!
