These tasty chicken skewers are packed with flavor from garlic and parmesan. They’re simple to prepare and perfect for grilling or baking!
Who can resist juicy chicken coated in cheesy goodness? I love serving them with a side of veggies or a refreshing salad. It’s a fun way to enjoy dinner! 🍗🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. I prefer thighs for their juiciness. If you want, you can substitute with turkey or tofu for a non-chicken option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals a clove of fresh garlic. Always better to use fresh if you can!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the way to go for a rich touch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give you that cheesy flavor, though it won’t melt.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great taste, but you can use any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil. For a twist, try infused oils like garlic or herb oil!
Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh parsley and oregano give nice flavor. You could replace parsley with basil or cilantro, depending on your taste. Dried herbs work too if fresh isn’t available.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it juicy and packed with flavor. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the marinade and allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes; longer is even better—up to 2 hours.
- Don’t skip on the oil! It helps keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
- Be mindful of cooking time. Overcooking dries out the chicken, so check it after 10 minutes.
These tips will help ensure your chicken skewers are juicy and delicious every time! Enjoy your meal!
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and allows for at least 30 minutes of marinating time. You can also marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor. Cooking on the grill or grill pan takes another 10-12 minutes, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious skewers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken into the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the chicken until all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Prep for Grilling:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking. If using a grill pan, add a little oil to it.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes total. Turn them every 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred color. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. While they’re still hot, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley on top for that extra pop of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the skewers immediately, optionally with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top and a side salad or grilled vegetables. Enjoy these flavorful garlic parmesan chicken skewers—they are perfect for a quick, delicious meal!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for skewers since they tend to be more tender and flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if the pieces are larger.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is fine and can enhance the flavor even more. Just be cautious with the garlic, as too much time can make it overpowering. If marinating overnight, consider reducing the garlic a little bit.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should no longer be pink in the center and the juices should run clear.
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
