Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Posted on February 8, 2025
Follow me

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meal, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect choice! Juicy marinated chicken chunks are grilled (or baked) to perfection, then coated in a rich, buttery garlic parmesan sauce. Whether you’re cooking these for a summer BBQ, weeknight dinner, or meal prep, these skewers are easy to make and packed with flavor!

Pair them with grilled veggies, rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a meal that’s both protein-packed and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

For Serving:

  • Extra grated parmesan
  • Chopped parsley for garnish
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Skewers

Grill Method (Best for Smoky Flavor! 🔥)

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
  2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  3. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).

Oven Method (Great for Indoor Cooking! 🍗)

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
  3. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. For extra char, broil on high for the last 2 minutes.

Air Fryer Method (Crispy & Fast! ⚡)

  1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
  2. Cook the skewers in a single layer for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Remove from heat and mix in grated parmesan, parsley, and lemon zest.

Step 5: Coat the Skewers & Serve

  1. Brush the hot grilled/baked chicken with the garlic parmesan sauce.
  2. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and fresh parsley.
  3. Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers

  1. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness – They stay more tender and juicy than chicken breasts.
  2. Let the Chicken Marinate – The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
  3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers – Leave space between each piece for even cooking.
  4. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and has a richer taste than pre-packaged versions.
  5. Grill on High Heat for a Quick Sear – This helps lock in moisture while giving a nice char.

What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

🍚 Rice – Serve with garlic butter rice or cilantro lime rice.
🥗 Salad – Pair with Caesar salad or a Greek salad.
🥦 Veggies – Serve with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or grilled peppers.
🍝 Pasta – Toss with buttery garlic noodles or creamy alfredo pasta.
🥖 Bread – Serve with garlic bread or warm pita.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken pieces (without sauce) for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes.

Variations

  1. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Skewers – Add 1 teaspoon of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.
  2. Asian-Inspired Skewers – Add soy sauce and ginger to the marinade.
  3. Cheesy Upgrade – Mix in shredded mozzarella to the garlic butter sauce for extra cheesiness!
  4. Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers – Add extra lemon juice and fresh rosemary for a zesty twist.
  5. Vegetable Skewers – Alternate chicken with bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

  • Calories: 370
  • Protein: 45g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Sugar: 1g

FAQ

1. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan is best, but pre-grated works if it’s finely shredded.

2. Can I make these skewers without a grill?

Yes! Bake them in the oven at 400°F or use an air fryer.

3. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer – it should reach 165°F internally.

4. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight makes the flavors even better.

5. Can I use another type of meat?

Absolutely! This marinade and sauce work great with shrimp, steak, or even tofu.