Description
Delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese, then grilled or baked to juicy perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these skewers offer a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of zest and herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1–1½ inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Skewers:
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to let the flavors infuse.
- Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to use to prevent burning; metal skewers can be used directly.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 4–6 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the skewers on a baking sheet, and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the cooked skewers from the heat. Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as creamy ranch, garlic butter, or marinara sauce.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- To achieve attractive grill marks and smoky flavor, avoid moving the skewers too frequently while grilling.
- Customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions between chicken pieces on the skewers.
- For a spicy version, add sriracha, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the marinade.
- Enhance herb flavor with fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil added to the marinade.
- Brush with melted lemon butter before serving for extra richness and a citrusy finish.
