These Grilled Garlic Parmesan Ranch Chicken Skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! Each bite combines tender chicken, zesty ranch, and a sprinkle of cheese that is hard to resist.
Honestly, who can say no to garlic and cheese on grilled chicken? I love serving them at parties or just for a cozy night in—everyone loves them, and they’re super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for juicy skewers. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just ensure they’re in equal-sized pieces for even cooking!
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is convenient, but homemade can taste fresher. Mix buttermilk, mayo, garlic powder, and herbs for a quick homemade version. Try Greek yogurt as a healthier swap!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds delicious cheesy flavor, but pecorino Romano can be a great alternative if you like something tangier. Nutritional yeast is also a good dairy-free option for flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a punch, but you can replace it with garlic powder in a pinch. Start with about 1 teaspoon if you’re using powder.
How Do You Ensure Evenly Cooked Skewers?
To make sure your chicken skewers are perfectly cooked, focus on even preparation and grilling techniques.
- Cut chicken into uniform 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking. This ensures that small pieces don’t cook through before larger ones.
- Leave space between the pieces on the skewers. This allows hot air to circulate, helping everything cook consistently.
- Preheat the grill properly. This helps achieve that nice char and prevents sticking.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes. This helps them cook evenly on all sides. Look for internal temperatures of 165°F for safe chicken.
Grilled Garlic Parmesan Ranch Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to grill the skewers. Plus, give yourself at least 1 hour (2-3 hours is even better!) for the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined—this will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes into the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken pieces gently in the marinade until they are all nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you can wait a bit longer, 2-3 hours would be perfect to enhance the flavor!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Lightly oil the grill grates to keep the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes total, turning them every 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are cooked through and have a nice golden char on the edges.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh touch. These skewers are delicious served hot with your favorite sides or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Garlic Parmesan Ranch Chicken Skewers!
FAQ for Grilled Garlic Parmesan Ranch Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a bit more flavor and moisture. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the breasts for even cooking.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to marinate the chicken when you’re ready to cook, ideally at least an hour before grilling for maximum flavor!
What Should I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, rice, or even pasta to soak up the delicious marinade.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to restore their juicy texture!
