Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a simple weeknight dinner, or looking for a delicious appetizer, these skewers are guaranteed to impress. The juicy, tender chicken combined with the savory blend of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering dish that's hard to resist. This recipe is packed with rich flavors and is surprisingly simple to prepare! Follow along to learn how to make this delicious dish from start to finish. Let's dive into the details so you can create a dish everyone will love.

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What Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are marinated chicken pieces, usually chicken breast or thigh, threaded onto skewers, grilled or baked to perfection, and topped with a delightful mixture of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. The skewers allow for even cooking, and the garlic-Parmesan coating gives the dish a rich and savory flavor profile. Whether you’re making this dish for a quick dinner or to impress your guests at a party, it is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 2 lbs of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing:

• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley or fresh basil

Equipment:

• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill or oven (depending on your cooking method)

Substitutions and Variations

Cooking is all about flexibility and adjusting recipes to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitution ideas to consider when making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

• Chicken Substitute: You can substitute the chicken with other proteins like shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Parmesan Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar cheesy flavor.
• Spice Level: If you prefer more spice, add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Herb Variations: While Italian seasoning works well, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to add a different flavor dimension.
• Low-Fat Option: For a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of butter in the sauce and use olive oil instead.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the steps closely for the best results. Here's how to make this tasty dish, step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then add them to the marinade. Toss the chicken in the marinade until it’s fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2-3 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure they’re evenly spaced for consistent cooking.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill or Oven

If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Skewers

• Grilling: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
• Oven-Baking: Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Coat the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Once the chicken is done cooking, remove the skewers from the grill or oven. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the chicken with the garlic Parmesan sauce while it’s still hot. This will allow the sauce to melt into the chicken and infuse it with rich flavor.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil on top of the skewers for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes or longer.
2. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, spacing them evenly.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to ensure proper cooking temperatures.
4. Cook the skewers until the chicken is fully cooked, with internal temperatures reaching 165°F (75°C).
5. Make the garlic Parmesan sauce and brush it over the hot skewers.
6. Garnish with additional Parmesan and herbs, then serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not marinating long enough: Skipping or rushing the marination process can result in less flavorful chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but the longer the better.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Make sure to leave some space between each chicken piece so that it cooks evenly on all sides.
• Cooking at the wrong temperature: Whether grilling or baking, make sure to use the right temperature to prevent the chicken from drying out.
• Using cold chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.
• Skipping the garlic sauce: The garlic Parmesan sauce is what makes this dish stand out, so don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers can make all the difference. Here are a few ideas to take your dish to the next level:

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• On a platter: Arrange the skewers on a large platter, with a sprinkling of extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for a pop of color.
• Over a salad: Serve the skewers over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a healthy meal.
• With dipping sauces: Offer some garlic aioli, marinara, or a zesty lemon yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
• As an appetizer: Cut the chicken pieces smaller, serve on mini skewers, and offer as bite-sized appetizers at parties.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Rustic Look: Use a wooden board and garnish with fresh lemon slices and herbs for a more casual, rustic presentation.
• Elevated Plating: Place the skewers vertically in a tall glass or jar for a unique serving idea at buffets or parties.
• Paired with Sides: Serve the skewers with complementary sides like grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe Tips

• For extra juiciness, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They tend to retain moisture better during cooking.
• Preheat your grill or oven before cooking to ensure the chicken gets a nice sear and stays juicy inside.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic: If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add extra cloves to the sauce for even more robust flavor.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken skewers and garlic Parmesan sauce in advance, and then grill or bake them just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the skewers up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Q: Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling them?

A: Absolutely! Baking the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes works just as well as grilling.

Q: Can I use store-bought grated Parmesan?

A: While fresh Parmesan offers the best flavor, you can use pre-grated Parmesan in a pinch. Just avoid the powdered kind as it doesn’t melt as well.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This is the safe temperature for fully cooked chicken.

Q: Can I make this recipe spicy?

A: Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes to the marinade or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic Parmesan sauce for added heat.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that is perfect for almost any occasion. The combination of juicy chicken, savory Parmesan, and aromatic garlic creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or cooking up a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a go-to option. Try it out, and don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and substitutions to make the dish your own! Enjoy!

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