These Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in garlic and topped with sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, making every bite full of flavor.
These skewers are perfect for grilling or baking, and they’re super easy to whip up. I love serving them with a side of veggies or rice. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts since they cook evenly and are easy to handle. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even use turkey for a leaner option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you don’t have fresh on hand. For a milder taste, roasted garlic is also a lovely alternative!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nice salty flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that still adds a cheesy flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great here, but feel free to swap it with avocado oil or melted butter. Both will add wonderful flavors as well.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken skewers can sometimes be tricky, but here are a few tips to get them just right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the skewers. This helps to get a lovely sear on the outside.
- Use a meat thermometer! It should read 165°F (75°C) when the chicken is fully cooked.
- Turn the skewers occasionally while cooking. This ensures all sides get equal heat and avoids burning.
- If using wooden skewers, soaking them is essential. This helps prevent burning during grilling.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly juicy chicken skewers every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🎉
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Grilling or baking will take an additional 10 to 25 minutes, depending on your cooking method. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour, which makes it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a well-mixed marinade. This will be the flavor base for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them together until each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors even more!
3. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer baking, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken pieces out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, making sure to distribute them evenly so they cook uniformly.
5. Cook the Skewers:
If grilling, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to get a golden color all around and ensure thorough cooking. If baking, arrange the skewers on the lined baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked through (the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender. If you like, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch!
7. Serve:
Enjoy your tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers warm. They’re delicious alongside a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables. Dig in and savor the flavors! 🍽️
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and will add more moisture and richness to the skewers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar salty flavor. For a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast works well and can provide that cheesy taste without the dairy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken pieces a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This will enhance the flavor even more!
