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If you are searching for a vibrant and mouthwatering dish to impress friends or elevate your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. Each skewer bursts with juicy, tender chicken infused with a rich garlic butter flavor and the savory sharpness of Parmesan cheese. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality taste experience — making it the perfect recipe to savor any day of the week or showcase at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that irresistible flavor and perfect texture. From the succulent chicken cubes to the fragrant garlic and tangy lemon, these humble components come together to make a truly unforgettable meal.
- Chicken breasts or thighs (1-1½ lb): Choosing equal-sized chunks helps cook the chicken evenly and keeps each bite juicy.
- Olive oil (3 Tbsp): Adds moisture and helps the marinade coat each piece perfectly.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Brings a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the chicken.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Intensifies the garlic flavor that defines this dish.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds a sweet-savory depth that balances the seasoning.
- Lemon pepper seasoning (1-2 tsp, no salt added): Provides zesty brightness and mild heat.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors in the marinade and seasoning.
- Lemon juice (¼ cup): Gives a refreshing tang that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- Butter (4-6 Tbsp) for the Garlic Parmesan Butter: Creates a silky, rich coating that keeps the chicken luscious.
- Minced garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic ensures that signature bold flavor with every bite.
- Grated Parmesan (¼ cup): Adds a nutty, savory punch that makes these skewers unforgettable.
- Optional lemon juice for the butter (2 tsp): Brightens the garlic butter, balancing richness.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (3 Tbsp, chopped): Offers a fresh herbal kick and gorgeous green color.
- Optional lemon slices for garnish: Adds a lovely visual touch and extra citrus aroma.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into equal-sized cubes to ensure even cooking. Toss the chicken pieces in a large bowl with olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Mix it well until every cube is beautifully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge. This step is key for infusing the chicken with flavor and tenderizing it for juicy results.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Butter
While the chicken marinates, place butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and gently let it simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking softens the garlic’s sharpness and creates a luscious base for the sauce. Once done, set the butter aside to stay warm at room temperature, ready to flavor the skewers as they cook.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken onto wooden or metal skewers, placing the pieces close but not overcrowded. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 400°F. Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for roughly 8 to 10 minutes. Turn often to get an even char and prevent any burning. When the chicken approaches doneness, brush generously with the garlic butter.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs
Remove the skewers from the grill when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown. Mix the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley (or cilantro) into the remaining garlic butter. Brush this luscious mixture over the cooked skewers for a final flavor boost. Don’t forget to add a little squeeze of fresh lemon over the top before serving — it’s the secret touch that makes the dish sparkle.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
For an eye-catching presentation and extra flair, garnish your skewers with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or cilantro. These bright elements add not only color but a lovely freshness that contrasts the rich garlic Parmesan butter. A dash of freshly cracked black pepper on top adds a subtle heat to finish things off.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think light and fresh, like a crisp garden salad or grilled vegetables that echo the smoky notes of the chicken. For heartier options, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf provide a satisfying base that soaks up any leftover garlic butter. Even crusty bread works wonders for mopping up delicious drips!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these skewers on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter to create a welcoming vibe. You can also assemble a vibrant platter with an assortment of dipping sauces such as a herby tzatziki or spicy aioli for added variety. For casual dining, wrap the cooked chicken in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and a drizzle of garlic Parmesan butter for handheld deliciousness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy quick meal or snack the next day. Let the chicken come to room temperature before reheating for the best texture.
Freezing
To keep skewers longer, you can freeze them once fully cooked and cooled. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly stored, they’ll maintain their flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, the oven or an air fryer works best to preserve the juicy texture while crisping the edges. Heat at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. You can brush them again lightly with the reserved garlic Parmesan butter to recapture that delightful richness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, making your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe even more tender and delicious. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces to cook evenly.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the skewers in an air fryer or under a broiler in the oven. Both methods will give you beautifully cooked chicken, just keep an eye to avoid overcooking and brush with garlic Parmesan butter as you go.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
While 15 minutes is enough to infuse good flavor, marinating for up to 4 hours really makes the chicken deliciously tender and packed with seasoning. Avoid marinating longer than 4 hours to keep the chicken’s texture perfect.
What can I substitute for Parmesan if I don’t have any?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives that provide a similar salty, nutty flavor to garnish the skewers beautifully.
Can I prepare the garlic Parmesan butter ahead of time?
Yes! The garlic Parmesan butter can be made a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature or in the fridge. Warm it slightly before brushing on the skewers to keep that silky texture.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making again and again because it brings such satisfying flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a flavorful dinner, these skewers deliver juicy, garlicky goodness coated with a luscious Parmesan butter that simply can’t be beaten. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and start creating delicious memories with every bite!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy and bursting with rich garlic butter flavor, perfect for grilling or air frying. Marinated with a zesty blend of lemon juice, paprika, and garlic, then finished with a luscious Parmesan butter sauce and fresh herbs, they make a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1–1½ lb chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1–2 tsp no salt added lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Garlic Parmesan Butter
- 4–6 Tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or fresh cilantro)
- 1 small lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, add cubed chicken making sure the pieces are roughly equal size for even cooking. Add olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all chicken pieces are well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes up to 4 hours.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and let it gently simmer for about 2 minutes to infuse the butter with garlic flavor. Remove from heat and keep warm or at room temperature.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers evenly. Lay the skewers on a flat baking sheet while preparing the grill.
- Preheat and Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Place the skewers directly on the grill grates. Cook for 8-10 minutes total, turning skewers frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Prepare Parmesan Herb Butter: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro) to the cooled garlic butter and stir well.
- Baste and Finish Grilling: While grilling, let the skewers rest about 2 minutes on each side. Continuously rotate and brush the chicken generously with the garlic Parmesan butter to build rich flavor and moisture. Grill until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest briefly on a baking sheet. Brush liberally with any leftover garlic Parmesan butter and add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Notes
- For best results, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for more tender and juicy skewers.
- Marinating the chicken longer than 15 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- You can cook these skewers in an air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a bright finish; feel free to experiment with your favorites.