Once you take your first bite of these succulent chicken skewers, you’ll understand why they’re a summertime staple. The moment the garlic hits the hot grill, a tantalizing aroma wafts through the air, drawing everyone near. That golden-brown char, glossy coating of olive oil, and notes of rich Parmesan create a flavor profile that dances on your palate savoriness intertwined with gentle herbs and a hint of garlic. It’s a dish that not only captures the essence of backyard gatherings but transports you straight to a sun-drenched terrace.
What makes this recipe shine
These garlic parmesan chicken skewers stand out for several reasons. The balance of flavors is impeccable the nuttiness of the Parmesan complements the brightness of the garlic and the earthiness of the Italian herbs. Plus, the simplicity of this dish makes it accessible for both novice and seasoned cooks. With just a handful of quality ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that looks and tastes gourmet.
“These skewers are the perfect combination of savory and cheesy! I can’t believe how easy they were to make!” – A happy home cook
From prep to plate
Let’s dive right into the process. This recipe is straightforward yet packed with flavor. We start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with rich garlic and herb goodness. The grilling process adds a charming smoky note while ensuring the chicken remains tender and juicy. Just follow along, and you’ll have delicious skewers ready to impress!
What you’ll need
Gather your items to ensure your cooking goes smoothly:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Using high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic will elevate the flavors significantly. If you’re in the mood for a twist, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant punch!
How to cook it
- If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. This is a crucial step!
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined.
- Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Cover and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor depth.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot and ready.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, ensuring there’s a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has lovely grill marks. Check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
How to plate it
For an appealing presentation, arrange the skewers on a vibrant platter or rustic cutting board. Drizzle some extra olive oil over the top and scatter fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice to create a well-rounded meal. The textures of the crisped chicken against the fresh greens will truly elevate your dining experience.
Keeping leftovers fresh
After enjoying your delicious skewers, store any leftovers properly to maintain their delightful taste. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze the skewers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or on a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t rush the marinating process; letting the chicken soak in flavor will pay off in each bite.
- Keep an eye on the grill temperature; medium-high works best for achieving that perfect char without drying out the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness it’s a foolproof way to ensure juicy, tender chicken every time.
- Experiment with the herbs; fresh thyme or even a bit of rosemary can lend a new twist to the flavor profile.
- Always allow the skewers to rest post-grilling; this lets the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist.
Ways to customize it
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can switch out chicken for shrimp or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to your skewers for a colorful veggie medley that complements the chicken beautifully. For a touch of tropical flair, try adding pineapple chunks during grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before or even assemble the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
2. What should I do if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can use a grill pan or even bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
3. Can I freeze the skewers?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked skewers as long as they are tightly wrapped. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before grilling for the best results.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Succulent chicken skewers marinated in garlic and Parmesan, grilled to perfection, and full of flavor.
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes)
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers with some space between each piece.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from grill, let rest for a few minutes, and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
To enhance flavor, feel free to substitute fresh herbs for dried ones. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of chicken pieces.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
