These yummy chicken skewers are packed with flavor thanks to garlic and zesty Parmesan. Perfect for grilling or baking, they make a great snack or dinner!
I love how easy they are to make. Just marinate the chicken, slide them onto skewers, and cook! Serve with veggies or rice, and watch everyone enjoy it! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for these skewers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast is a great substitute. You could also use cubed tofu for a vegetarian version!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives these skewers a fantastic taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead, but fresh is always better for richer flavor. Adjust based on your taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Or try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for marinating and basting, adding richness. If you prefer, you can substitute with avocado oil or even a flavored oil like garlic-infused oil for extra depth.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Flavor?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for tenderness and flavor. Here are some tips for a successful marinade:
- Mix your marinade well to ensure all the ingredients blend. This helps coat the chicken evenly.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; 1-2 hours is even better to let the flavors soak in.
- Don’t skip on the lemon juice! It adds a nice brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
For added flavor, consider trying it with different herbs or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick! 🍋🌿
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks
For The Marinade:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon (optional for brightness)
For Cooking:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time. For marinating, let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes, but up to 1-2 hours is ideal for enhanced flavor. Cooking time is roughly 10-15 minutes, making the total time around 1 hour or less, including marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if you’re using it. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure to toss them thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for up to 2 hours if you want that extra flavor boost!
3. Get Ready to Cook:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven, go ahead and preheat to 425°F (220°C) now.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, thread the chicken chunks onto your skewers, evenly spacing them apart. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Cook the Skewers:
If grilling, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning carefully until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. If you’re baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the skewers on it, cooking for 20-25 minutes and turning halfway.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and transfer them to a serving plate. For extra flavor, sprinkle more grated Parmesan and chopped parsley on top. You can serve these skewers hot with your favorite sides like a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or fluffy rice. Enjoy!
These garlic and Parmesan chicken skewers are sure to be a hit at your table! Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Other Meats for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cooks much quicker, usually taking only 2-3 minutes per side on the grill!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance! Just keep it in the refrigerator. Once you’re ready to cook, simply thread it onto skewers and grill or bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on a skillet to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven If I Don’t Have a Grill?
Definitely! Simply preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
