Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple and delicious dinner idea that packs a ton of flavor. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated with garlic and coated in a cheesy Parmesan mix, then grilled to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful bites that are perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself.
I love making these skewers when I want something quick but still special. The garlic and Parmesan combo feels like a little treat, and the chicken stays super moist thanks to the marinade. I usually let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least an hour—it’s a small step that makes a big difference!
One of my favorite ways to serve these skewers is alongside a fresh salad or some roasted veggies. They also go great with a simple dipping sauce, like ranch or a garlic yogurt dip. Honestly, they’re perfect for a backyard cookout or an easy weeknight meal that feels like a celebration.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for juiciness, but breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat. Just keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dryness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that strong, bright flavor. If you’re in a hurry, jarred minced garlic can be a handy backup.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor and melts nicely. If needed, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be tasty substitutes with a similar sharpness.
Olive Oil & Lemon Juice: They help keep the chicken moist and add a subtle tang. You can swap lemon juice with lime juice for a slight twist in flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley gives a mild herbiness and color. If unavailable, dried parsley can work, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
How Can You Make Sure Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key! It not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Make the marinade fresh and toss the chicken thoroughly so every piece is coated.
- Chill the chicken in the marinade for at least 1 hour—longer if you can—so it soaks in more flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; give each piece a little space for even cooking.
- Grill over medium-high heat: hot enough to sear and lock juices, but not so hot it burns outside before the inside cooks.
- Let the skewers rest a few minutes off the heat before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I prefer this for that nice char and smoky flavor; it also heats evenly for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Skewers (wooden or metal) – wooden skewers should soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning; metal ones are reusable and sturdy.
- Mixing bowls – for marinating the chicken; a large bowl makes tossing everything easy.
- Grill tongs – to turn the skewers safely without piercing the meat and losing juices.
- Measuring spoons and grater – keep things precise and fresh with a fine grater for the Parmesan cheese.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for different textures and flavors.
- Cheese variation: Mix in shredded mozzarella or sprinkle with a little feta for extra creaminess or tang.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the marinade for a smoky or spicy kick.
- Herb mix: Swap parsley for basil or cilantro to change the fresh herbal flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water 30 minutes prior to use)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. Cooking takes about 10-15 minutes on the grill, and a quick 5 minutes of resting before serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano (if using), salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken chunks and toss everything so the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but the longer you marinate (up to 4 hours), the more flavorful the chicken will be.
2. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge. Thread the pieces onto your prepared skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them. Leave a little space between pieces so they cook evenly.
3. Grill the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nicely cooked chicken with a slight char and golden melted Parmesan topping.
4. Rest and Serve:
Take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Serve warm, garnished with a little extra chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy your tasty, garlicky Parmesan chicken skewers!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before marinating. This helps the marinade absorb better and ensures even cooking.
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a few hours ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the oven to keep them juicy.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
They’re great with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up any extra sauce.