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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (1)

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the kind of crowd-pleasing magic you whip up when you want something savory, smoky, and packed with bold flavor. The chicken is juicy and tender, infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, then grilled to golden perfection with a cheesy parmesan crust. Whether you’re cooking over an open flame or a grill pan on the stove, the result is a mouthwatering mix of crisp edges and juicy centers.

These skewers are incredibly versatile, perfect for backyard BBQs, casual dinners, or even meal prep for the week. They pair beautifully with fresh salads, buttery rice, or roasted veggies, and you can even throw them in a wrap with a drizzle of creamy sauce. Once you try them, they might just become your go-to chicken recipe.


What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts are a leaner option that also performs well. The key is to cut them into evenly-sized chunks so they cook consistently.


Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into chunks
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • Wooden or metal skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.

Step 2: Prep the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, spacing them just slightly apart.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning until charred and cooked through. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese directly over the chicken.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the skewers from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.


How to Serve and Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Serve these skewers straight off the grill for best flavor. They make an amazing main dish with roasted potatoes, grilled veggies, or a cold pasta salad. You can also tuck them into pita bread with a little tzatziki or wrap them in lettuce for a low-carb twist.

To store leftovers, remove the chicken from the skewers and place in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat well in a skillet or microwave. These also freeze well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when ready.


Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is enough to infuse flavor, but marinating for a few hours or overnight will give you even juicier results.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Bake the skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through and adding the Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives that give a similar salty bite.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes! Marinate and skewer the chicken ahead of time, then grill when you’re ready to eat. They’re perfect for meal prep.

Do I need to use skewers?

Not at all. You can cook the marinated chicken pieces directly in a grill pan or skillet—just make sure they’re evenly spaced and flipped for even browning.

Are these good for kids?

Very! The garlic and cheese combo is usually a hit with kids, and the handheld skewer format is fun and mess-free.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, try one of these next:


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And when you make it, let me know in the comments how it turned out. Did you use thighs or breasts? Did you add extra cheese or spice?

Your kitchen creativity is always welcome here—and if you want even more recipes like this, follow along on my Pinterest @NinaDishes where I share daily meals you’ll actually want to cook.


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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers


  • Author: Nina Klatten
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Juicy, tender chicken chunks marinated in garlic and herbs, grilled to perfection, and finished with a generous shower of Parmesan cheese. These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are quick to make, kid-approved, and ideal for everything from BBQs to meal prep.


Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks

1/3 cup olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Skewers (wooden or metal)


Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.

2. Toss chicken chunks in the marinade until evenly coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.

3. Soak wooden skewers in water if using. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers.

4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

5. Grill chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked and slightly charred.

6. Sprinkle Parmesan over the skewers during the last 2 minutes of grilling.

7. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier skewers; breasts work if you prefer lean.

Don’t skip marinating—it really builds flavor.

Sprinkle cheese only during the final grill minutes to avoid burning.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0.2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: chicken skewers, grilled chicken, garlic parmesan

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