Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Looking for an easy yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer grilling or a cozy indoor dinner? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe brings together the bold flavors of garlic, parmesan, and juicy chicken, all served on skewers for easy grilling and perfect presentation. Read on to discover the secret to making these mouthwatering skewers that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

What are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, protein-packed dish where tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a delicious garlic-parmesan sauce and then grilled to perfection on skewers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its ability to please even the pickiest of eaters. Each skewer is infused with rich, savory flavors, making it a great option for any meal.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Wooden or metal skewers

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a juicier cut of chicken, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts. Thighs have more fat, which helps to keep the meat tender during grilling.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to swap parsley for cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. The yeast adds a cheesy, savory flavor without the dairy.
• Grilling Indoors: If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, you can also use an indoor grill pan or even bake the skewers in the oven.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Make sure the pieces are relatively uniform so that they cook evenly.
2. Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well blended.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring that all of the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
4. Prepare the Skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you're using metal skewers, no soaking is required.
5. Thread the Chicken: Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto your skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
6. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop if you're cooking indoors.
7. Grill the Skewers: Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. The chicken should have a nice golden-brown crust, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
8. Rest the Chicken: After removing the skewers from the grill, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more flavorful.

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

1. Start with a Clean Grill: Before you begin grilling, make sure your grill is clean. A dirty grill can cause your food to stick and lead to uneven cooking.
2. Monitor the Heat: Keep the grill at medium-high heat to avoid burning the skewers while ensuring the chicken cooks through. A too-high temperature will cook the outside quickly but leave the inside raw.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature of your chicken to make sure it reaches 165°F. This guarantees that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
4. Baste While Grilling: If you want extra flavor, consider brushing more of the marinade or a garlic butter mixture onto the skewers as they cook.
5. Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Leave enough space between each skewer on the grill to ensure even heat circulation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Don’t rush the marinating process. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Ideally, aim for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is even better.
• Not Soaking Wooden Skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire during the cooking process.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breast can dry out if overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature (165°F).
• Not Flipping the Skewers: Make sure to turn your skewers regularly so that the chicken cooks evenly on all sides and develops a nice golden-brown crust.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here’s how to make sure they look as good as they taste when serving them.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

1. Platter Presentation: Arrange the skewers on a large serving platter. You can garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color.
2. Accompaniments: Serve the skewers with a variety of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, tzatziki, or a tangy lemon yogurt sauce. These add an extra layer of flavor and enhance the meal.
3. Pairing Options: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair well with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of garlic butter pasta. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

1. Skewer Stand: Use a skewer stand or place the skewers upright in a mason jar for a fun and interactive way for guests to grab their food.
2. Single-Serve Portions: For a more elegant presentation, plate individual skewers with a small side salad or grilled vegetable medley on each plate.
3. Garnish with Parmesan: Just before serving, sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top of the skewers for a visually appealing finish.
4. Colorful Vegetables: If you want to add more color to your skewers, thread some bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions alongside the chicken pieces.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is fully preheated before adding the chicken. This helps to prevent sticking and ensures that your skewers develop a good char.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better and has a stronger flavor than pre-packaged grated parmesan.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Add veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skewers for extra flavor and texture.
• Double Up on Skewers: For easier flipping and handling, you can thread the chicken onto two skewers instead of one. This prevents the pieces from spinning around when you turn them on the grill.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I prepare the chicken skewers in advance?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to thread the skewers and grill.

What other protein can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, pork, or even beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Simply place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag with the marinade and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that works perfectly for both casual and formal occasions. With bold flavors from the garlic and parmesan, and juicy chicken cooked to perfection, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, these skewers are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try this recipe today and take your grilling game to the next level!

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