Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: The Ultimate Grilling Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine succulent, juicy chicken, perfectly marinated and grilled to golden perfection, then generously coated in a savory blend of garlic and parmesan. These aren’t just skewers; they’re an experience.

While the exact origins of skewered meats are lost to the mists of time, the concept of cooking food on a stick is ancient and universal, appearing in cultures across the globe. From the Middle Eastern kebab to the Japanese yakitori, skewered delights have always been a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors. Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers draw inspiration from these traditions, adding a distinctly Italian-American twist.

What makes these skewers so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The garlic and parmesan create a rich, umami-packed coating that perfectly complements the tender chicken. They are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next barbecue. Plus, who can resist the fun and interactive nature of eating food off a stick? Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy chicken with these flavorful and easy-to-make skewers!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
• 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Other:
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
• Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your chicken breasts and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them as uniform as possible so they cook evenly on the skewers.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s what gives the chicken its flavor!
3. Toss everything together really well, making sure all the chicken pieces are coated with the oil and spices. This is where your hands come in handy!
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be. I often let it marinate for a couple of hours, or even overnight, if I have the time.

Soaking the Skewers:

1. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your wooden skewers. This is a crucial step to prevent them from burning on the grill or in the oven.
2. Fill a shallow dish or baking pan with water and submerge the wooden skewers completely.
3. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This will saturate the wood and help them withstand the heat.

Assembling the Skewers:

1. Once the chicken has marinated and the skewers have soaked, it’s time to assemble the skewers.
2. Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This will allow the heat to circulate and cook the chicken evenly. I usually aim for about 5-6 chicken cubes per skewer, but you can adjust this based on the size of your skewers and the size of the chicken pieces.
3. Make sure the chicken is securely on the skewer, but don’t pack it too tightly.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

1. Now, let’s make that delicious Garlic Parmesan sauce that will take these skewers to the next level!
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Set the sauce aside.

Cooking the Skewers:

Grilling Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill.
3. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken skewers generously with the Garlic Parmesan sauce. This will create a delicious, flavorful glaze.
5. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the chicken skewers on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last few minutes of baking, brush the chicken skewers generously with the Garlic Parmesan sauce.
6. Remove the skewers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. During the last few minutes of air frying, brush the chicken skewers generously with the Garlic Parmesan sauce.
5. Remove the skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving:

1. Once the chicken skewers are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter.
2. Drizzle any remaining Garlic Parmesan sauce over the skewers.
3. Garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Serve immediately. These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are delicious on their own as an appetizer or snack, or you can serve them as a main course with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
5. Optional: Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the skewers for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or the Garlic Parmesan sauce for a spicier kick.
• Add vegetables: Thread some vegetables onto the skewers along with the chicken, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce, such as Asiago or Romano.
• Make it creamy: Add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to the Garlic Parmesan sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
• Add herbs: Experiment with different herbs in the chicken marinade or the Garlic Parmesan sauce, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just be sure to add the Garlic Parmesan sauce right before cooking.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are truly a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal. From the simple preparation to the mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen as they cook, this recipe is a winner on all fronts. The combination of tender chicken, savory garlic, and salty Parmesan creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

What makes these skewers so special is their versatility. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or even a fun appetizer for a party. Imagine serving these at your next gathering – they’re guaranteed to be a hit! And the best part? They’re so easy to customize to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Need some inspiration for serving? I’ve got you covered! These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light and refreshing meal, try serving them with a simple green salad and a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the Parmesan, creating a perfectly balanced dish. Alternatively, you could serve them with some grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. The smoky char of the vegetables complements the savory chicken perfectly.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, consider serving the skewers with a side of creamy polenta or risotto. The creamy texture of the polenta or risotto provides a comforting contrast to the tender chicken. You could even toss the skewers with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy pasta dish. Just imagine these skewers tossed with some fettuccine and a light cream sauce – pure comfort food!

And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little kick. You could also try using different types of cheese, such as Asiago or Romano, for a slightly different flavor profile. For a sweeter twist, brush the skewers with a honey-garlic glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. The possibilities are endless!

Another great variation is to add some vegetables directly onto the skewers. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions all work wonderfully. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into pieces that are similar in size to the chicken so that they cook evenly.

I truly believe that this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill (or oven!), and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What sides did you serve them with? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family. Let’s spread the love for these amazing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!