These chicken skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! Marinated in garlic and topped with cheesy parmesan, they make a tasty treat for any cookout or dinner.
Who can resist that cheesy topping? I like to serve them with a side of veggies for a quick and delicious meal. Plus, they’re easy to make—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs or breasts work great, but thighs bring more juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, stick with chicken breasts.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder—just reduce the amount to about a teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: While the recipe calls for grated Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute if you want something sharper. Nutritional yeast also works for a dairy-free option!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and moisture. If you need an alternative, avocado oil is great for high heat cooking and has a mild flavor.
Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have any, a splash of vinegar like apple cider or white wine vinegar adds acidity.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken skewers lies in marinating! Start by mixing your marinade, then let the chicken sit in it for a minimum of 30 minutes—ideally 1-2 hours. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Combine ingredients well in a bowl to really meld the flavors.
- Don’t rush the marinating step; the longer, the better!
- When grilling, don’t overcrowd the skewers; give each piece space for even cooking.
- Turn the skewers occasionally to avoid burning and ensure they cook evenly.
Following these tips will take your chicken skewers from average to amazing! Enjoy cooking!
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon (optional for freshness)
For Skewering:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes prior)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and marinate, plus 10-12 minutes for grilling. Adding marination time, aim for around 1-2 hours for the best flavor infusion. So, set aside some time to relax while the flavors melt together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the minced garlic, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if you’re using it). Mix until everything is well combined; this is the flavorful marinade that will tenderize and season your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss gently until all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—if you have time, let it sit for 1-2 hours for a deeper flavor!
3. Preheat and Prepare for Grilling:
Once your chicken is marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure they’ve been soaking for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, distributing them evenly. Be sure not to overcrowd them; this helps with even cooking!
5. Grill to Perfection:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to achieve a nice char and ensure they cook evenly. Check for doneness—your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle extra Parmesan and chopped parsley on top while they’re still hot. This adds a lovely finish!
7. Enjoy:
Serve the skewers immediately with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables. Enjoy your savory, garlicky, cheesy chicken skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used for skewers, chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!
How Can I Make These Skewers Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. For even more flavor, consider marinating with a spicy sauce like sriracha in addition to the garlic and Parmesan.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the grill or in the oven to retain their juicy flavor, avoiding the microwave if possible to prevent drying them out.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, thread onto skewers and grill as directed for a quick and tasty meal!