Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a perfect combination of juicy chicken, savory Parmesan cheese, and the bold flavors of garlic. These skewers are not only delicious but also versatile—ideal for summer grilling, a quick weeknight dinner, or even party appetizers. With tender, marinated chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection, these skewers are crispy on the outside while staying juicy and flavorful on the inside. The Parmesan and garlic elevate the flavor profile, making this dish a hit for garlic lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike
Prepare the chicken and marinade
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into evenly sized, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly on the grill. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the marinade is well mixed and the flavors are balanced.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing them to coat each piece thoroughly. The lemon juice adds a slight tang to the dish, while the garlic and Italian seasoning infuse the chicken with a rich, aromatic flavor. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. If time permits, you can let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge for even more intense flavor.
Preheat the grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Skewer the chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly. The chicken should be snug but not overcrowded on the skewer.
Grill the chicken skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice golden-brown char. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked properly. As the chicken cooks, it will develop a delicious crust from the olive oil and seasonings.
Add the Parmesan
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skewers. The heat from the grill will melt the cheese slightly, creating a delicious crust on the chicken. Be sure to keep an eye on the skewers to prevent the Parmesan from burning— it should melt and become golden.
Serve and garnish
Once the chicken is cooked and the Parmesan has melted, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. Garnish the skewers with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the garlic and Parmesan.
Bonus Tip:
For an extra layer of flavor, you can brush the chicken skewers with a garlic butter mixture during grilling. Simply melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it with additional minced garlic. Brush this mixture over the skewers in the last few minutes of cooking to intensify the garlic flavor and add a buttery richness. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes over the skewers before serving to give them a slight kick.
Conclusion:
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a wonderful combination of juicy chicken, savory cheese, and aromatic garlic, making them a must-try for any meal or gathering. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or making a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the richness of Parmesan and the punch of garlic, creates a dish that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Serve them with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread for a complete meal that is sure to impress.