Zesty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe for Summer Grills

My recent Mediterranean cooking adventure revealed these mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken skewers that instantly became a dinner sensation.

Succulent chicken pieces marinate in a zesty blend of herbs and seasonings.

Fragrant garlic and nutty parmesan create an irresistible combination that makes everyone’s taste buds dance.

Perfectly grilled and beautifully charred, these skewers promise a delightful meal in under thirty minutes.

Lean protein meets bold flavors in this simple yet impressive dish.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior.

You’ll want to make extra for spontaneous second helpings.

FAQs

• How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. For best results, you can marinate up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They’re more flavorful and tend to stay juicier during grilling compared to chicken breasts.

• What if I don't have a grill?

You can cook these skewers on a grill pan, in the oven at 425°F, or even under the broiler. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Stands Out

• Conquer Complex Flavors Easily: This casserole transforms traditional stuffed peppers into a hassle-free dish that delivers incredible taste without complicated techniques.
• Feed a Hungry Crowd Quickly: Perfect for feeding multiple people with minimal prep work, this one-pan wonder satisfies large families or gatherings without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customize Your Comfort: Flexible recipe allows swapping ground beef with turkey, adding different cheeses, or incorporating extra vegetables to match personal preferences and dietary needs.
• Nutritious Meal in Minutes: Packed with protein from beef, vitamins from bell peppers, and balanced carbohydrates from rice, this casserole provides a complete and satisfying meal in a single dish.

Ingredients Needed for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and lean meat that absorbs the marinade's flavors and creates delicious skewers.

• Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and creates a smooth coating for the chicken.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken meat.

• Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic taste that complements the chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty dimension to the overall flavor profile.

• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the chicken.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, green color and a light herbal note to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Slice and Prepare Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized chunks that will cook evenly and look appetizing on skewers. Transfer the chicken pieces into a spacious mixing bowl.

Step 2: Create Zesty Marinade

• Olive oil
• Freshly minced garlic
• Tangy lemon juice
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Blend these ingredients until they form a smooth, aromatic mixture.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring every chunk is thoroughly coated.

Let the chicken soak up the delicious flavors for a minimum of 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Grill

Heat the grill to a medium temperature, creating the perfect cooking environment for juicy, golden skewers.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, arranging them neatly and evenly.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection

Place skewers on the preheated grill.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating occasionally to ensure even browning and complete cooking. Chicken should develop a beautiful golden exterior and reach a safe internal temperature.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the skewers for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately while hot and aromatic.

Helpful Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness, allowing the garlic and parmesan to deeply infuse into the meat.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and potential flame flare-ups during cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption, avoiding overcooking that can dry out the meat.
• Experiment with alternative proteins like shrimp or tofu for a different twist, maintaining the same delicious marinade recipe.
• Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently to preserve moisture and flavor.

Flavor Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Mediterranean Magic: Replace olive oil with Greek yogurt and add oregano and mint for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Skewers: Mix in chipotle powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to create a bold, fiery chicken version with southwestern flair.
• Herb Garden Delight: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, and basil into the marinade for an aromatic herb-infused chicken skewer experience.
• Asian Fusion Feast: Swap parmesan for sesame seeds, add soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of honey to transform the skewers with an Asian-inspired marinade.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Backyard Barbecue Delight: Serve these zesty skewers as the star of an outdoor grilling party with grilled vegetable sides and crisp salads.
• Mediterranean Platter Presentation: Arrange skewers over a bed of herbed couscous, drizzle with extra olive oil, and sprinkle with additional parmesan for an elegant touch.
• Casual Appetizer Spread: Cut skewers into smaller sections, place on a wooden board with toothpicks, and pair with garlic aioli and lemon wedges for easy party snacking.
• Quick Weeknight Meal Combo: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables and a light quinoa salad for a balanced, protein-packed dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Properly

• Store marinated chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before grilling, keeping them fresh and flavorful.
• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, storing for up to 3 months for quick future meals.
• Keep leftover grilled skewers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring they remain moist by adding a splash of olive oil.
• Prepare and marinate chicken skewers in advance, storing them in portion-sized containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 52 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-inspired garlic parmesan chicken skewers blend zesty herbs with rich, savory cheese. Grilled to golden perfection, these skewers offer you a delightful taste of summer’s fresh flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs (907 g) chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup (50 g) parmesan cheese
• 3 tbsps (45 ml) olive oil
• 2 tbsps (30 ml) lemon juice
• 2 tbsps (8 g) fresh parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4–6 wooden or metal skewers

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Instructions

1. Transform plump chicken breasts into succulent, bite-sized morsels, positioning them strategically within a spacious mixing vessel.
2. Craft a vibrant marinade by blending robust olive oil, aromatic crushed garlic, zesty lemon juice, pungent grated parmesan, and a delicate balance of salt and pepper.
3. Lavishly coat the chicken pieces with the prepared marinade, allowing the flavors to harmonize and penetrate deeply for a minimum of 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Ignite the grill, establishing a medium-heat environment around 375-400°F for optimal cooking conditions.
5. Meticulously thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring even distribution and secure placement.
6. Position skewers on the heated grill, rotating periodically to achieve an even, golden-brown exterior and ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F – approximately 10-12 minutes of total cooking time.
7. Elevate the presentation by generously sprinkling freshly chopped parsley across the skewers, creating a vibrant visual and aromatic finale before serving piping hot.

Notes

• Marinate chicken for maximum flavor by letting it sit in the mixture for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper taste penetration.
• Use wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Substitute dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast for a lactose-free version that maintains the savory, cheesy profile.
• Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer to guarantee safe and perfectly cooked protein.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg