Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are tender marinated chicken, skewered, then grilled to perfection. Brush them with an irresistible garlic-parmesan sauce right before serving for an extra burst of flavour in every bite. Whether you’re tossing them on the grill or searing them indoors, this recipe comes together in under 40 minutes (plus marinating time).

Is there anything better than a quick chicken recipe? Use a skillet to make Simple Chicken Fajitas in under 35 minutes or Chicken Piccata Meatballs on spaghetti in under 45 minutes with no marinating time. These family friendly dinners are a surefire way to ensure clean plates all around the dinner table.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Looking for a fast, high-protein meal that doesn’t compromise on flavour? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe features tender, marinated chicken bites cooked to golden perfection. For even more flavour, they are finished with an incredible savoury garlic-herb parmesan sauce.

As with most of my recipes, this chicken recipe is flexible when it comes to the cooking method and seasoning. Feel free to grill them on a barbecue, stove top grill pan, oven, or an air fryer.

Alternatively, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast and adjust the amount of minced garlic in the garlic parmesan butter sauce, if you like. Not everyone is a garlic lover!

While the active cooking time is quite low, note that there is a required marinating time of at 1-2 hours. If you want to start them in the morning, then have them ready to grill for dinner that is okay too.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

To cook the chicken skewers, you’ll need a grill pan or barbecue, baking sheet with a wire rack, or an air fryer. You’ll also a need a large bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and wooden skewers.

• Chicken
• Mayonnaise
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Powder
• Paprika
• Onion Powder
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Cooking Spray Oil
• Unsalted Butter
• Garlic Cloves
• Parmesan Cheese
• Parsley

If you prefer to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, feel free to do so. Keep in mind that two thighs are roughly equal to one breast and they will require longer cooking time.

Instead of mayonnaise, use plain Greek yogurt in the marinade for a tangier flavour. Use fresh spices for a vibrant flavour and real finely grated Parmesan cheese in the sauce. For herbs, you can replace parsley with fresh basil, cilantro, or chives for variety.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick and use smoked paprika for a smokier flavour.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

To marinate the chicken, place mayonnaise, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Add diced chicken and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Take the chicken out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. In the meantime, soak the wooden skewers.

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly spray or rub with cooking oil. While the grill is heating up, thread chicken onto pre-soaked skewers, about 6 to 7 pieces per skewer.

Place skewers on the grill pan in a single layer. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to determine when the chicken reaches (165°F/74°C). Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.

Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove garlic butter from heat and stir in finely grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Finally, brush or drizzle the garlic Parmesan sauce generously over the cooked skewers.

Alternative Cooking Instructions

• In the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• On the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
• In an air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place the skewers in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, flip the skewers, and cook for another 6 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the basket when air frying to ensure they cook evenly. Work in batches if needed.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Everyone loves chicken skewers paired with dipping sauce. Serve these Garlic Parm Chicken Skewers with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for added flavour. A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavour and pairs with the garlic.

To round out the meal, pair chicken skewers with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or crusty bread. They also work well as an appetizer or party snack.

Storing the Leftovers

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat skewers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes, or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through.

Freeze uncooked marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before threading onto skewers and cooking.

Hi! I’m Bernice Hill, the heart and soul behind Dish ‘n’ the Kitchen. It is my pleasure to share easy to follow recipes that are delicious, nutritious, and approachable for the whole family.

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