Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple and tasty way to enjoy chicken with loads of flavor. The chicken pieces are marinated with plenty of garlic and coated in savory Parmesan cheese, then grilled or baked until perfectly tender and golden. These skewers have a great mix of garlicky goodness and cheesy richness that makes every bite satisfying and fun to eat.
I love making these skewers for quick dinners or casual gatherings because they come together fast and everyone seems to enjoy them. One of my favorite tricks is to serve them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon to brighten up the flavors even more. Plus, since they’re on skewers, they’re easy to handle and perfect for sharing around the table.
These chicken skewers remind me of warm summer evenings spent outside with friends and family, chatting and enjoying simple food. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s straightforward and packed with flavor, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers hit the spot every time. I find myself coming back to this recipe whenever I want something cozy yet special without fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. Breasts work well too but can dry out if overcooked. Cut into even pieces to cook uniformly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here for that strong, bright flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh creates the best aroma and taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts nicely and adds a nutty taste. Grated prepackaged cheese works too but try to avoid powdered Parmesan as it won’t melt well.
Olive Oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and infuses flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado or vegetable oil are good alternatives.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds freshness, but dried parsley works as well. Dried oregano and basil bring classic Italian flavors. Feel free to swap basil for thyme or rosemary based on your preference.
Lemon Juice: Adds acidity that balances the richness of Parmesan and garlic. Lime juice is a nice substitute if needed.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful on Skewers?
Marinating is the secret to juicy, tasty chicken skewers. Here’s how I do it:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours. This time lets the flavors sink in and tenderizes the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers — leave small gaps so heat can circulate and chicken cooks evenly.
- Preheat your grill or pan properly before cooking; medium-high heat creates a nice char without drying the chicken.
- Turn the skewers gently every 4-5 minutes to cook each side evenly without breaking the pieces.
- Use a meat thermometer or cut into a piece to check it’s cooked through (165°F / 75°C internal temp).
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep juices locked inside.
Following these steps will help you get tender, juicy chicken with a crisp, flavorful crust every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skewers (wooden or metal) – Wooden ones should be soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning, making grilling safer and easier.
- Grill or grill pan – I like grilling for that smoky flavor and nice char marks; a grill pan works well indoors.
- Mixing bowl – For combining all marinade ingredients so your chicken gets evenly coated.
- Tongs – Handy for turning the skewers gently during grilling without piercing the meat too much.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for different textures and flavors. Marinate similarly before cooking.
- Cheese twist: Mix in shredded mozzarella or feta with the Parmesan for extra cheesy goodness.
- Veggie addition: Thread cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini slices along with chicken for more color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the marinade for a punch of heat and smoky flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken & Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
Other:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to marinate (you can do up to 2 hours if you have time), and 10 minutes to cook. So total time is roughly 50 minutes if you marinate for half an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, fresh parsley, dried oregano, optional basil, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade bowl and toss them until every piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the chicken soaks up all the flavors.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get nice grill marks.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden, slightly charred look. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle a bit more Parmesan and parsley on top if you like. Serve warm with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or rice for a delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and cooking. This helps the marinade absorb better and ensures even cooking.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and thread the skewers a few hours ahead or even the night before. Keep them covered in the fridge and grill just before serving for the freshest taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying them out.
Can I Bake These Instead of Grilling?
Yes! Bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.