When it comes to summer grilling or an easy weeknight meal, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an absolute hit. Bursting with the flavors of savory garlic, buttery Parmesan, and tender chicken, they’re a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or preparing dinner for your family, these skewers are sure to impress with their delicious taste and healthy ingredients.
Not only are these skewers full of flavor, but they’re also incredibly nutritious. Packed with lean chicken and simple ingredients, this dish provides a great source of protein without adding unnecessary carbohydrates. Furthermore, pairing it with healthy sides like salads or grilled vegetables can help you create a balanced, wholesome meal.
In this guide, we’ll take you through all the essential steps to perfect your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. We’ll also suggest variations, and even give you options for side dishes. Additionally, we’ll point out some delicious complementary recipes from Dana Recipes that will help you create a full-course meal.
Why Choose Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
You may wonder why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers have become such a popular dish. The answer lies in the perfect combination of simplicity, versatility, and irresistible flavor. Here are a few compelling reasons to try this recipe:
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling, air frying, or baking, these skewers can be cooked in a variety of ways, allowing for flexibility in the kitchen.
- Healthy and Nutritious: With a high protein content and virtually no carbs, this dish is suitable for various dietary plans such as keto, low-carb, or gluten-free.
- Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for casual family dinners or outdoor gatherings, these skewers are bound to be a hit with guests of all ages.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and fast cooking methods, you can whip up this delicious meal in less than an hour.
For another delightful way to enjoy garlic and Parmesan, be sure to check out the Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe from Dana Recipes. This alternative offers a slightly different take on the flavor combination, providing another fantastic way to serve chicken.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1-2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning (no salt added)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-6 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Optional: You may also serve the skewers with fresh lemon slices and additional herbs like basil or oregano for extra zest.
By keeping the seasoning simple yet flavorful, you ensure that each bite is balanced and healthy. If you’d like to add more garlic goodness to your meal, consider pairing these skewers with Garlic Bread Rolls for a complete, garlic-infused feast.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
1. Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is crucial for locking in flavor and ensuring the chicken remains juicy. This step helps to tenderize the chicken, making it moist and flavorful when cooked.
- First, cut the chicken into evenly-sized cubes (about 1 inch) to ensure even cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, juice from 1 lemon, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt.
- Toss the chicken well to coat each piece evenly with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have time. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.
While the chicken is marinating, you can use this time to prepare the garlic Parmesan butter, which you’ll brush over the skewers during cooking.
2. Making Garlic Parmesan Butter
The garlic Parmesan butter is the secret to making these skewers rich and indulgent. Its combination of creamy butter, aromatic garlic, and tangy Parmesan creates a perfect flavor complement to the grilled or air-fried chicken.
- Melt 4-6 tablespoons of butter over low heat in a small saucepan.
- Add 3 minced cloves of garlic to the butter and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. This allows the garlic to infuse its flavor into the butter.
- Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
- Once the butter mixture is done, set it aside. You’ll brush this flavorful butter over the chicken skewers as they cook to ensure maximum flavor.
This garlic Parmesan butter will help make each bite of chicken succulent and packed with flavor. Remember, brushing the skewers during cooking will lock in moisture and elevate the taste.
Cooking Methods for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
There are three primary methods for cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: grilling, air frying, and baking. Each method produces slightly different textures and flavors, but they all result in delicious, juicy chicken.
1. Grilling Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Grilling is perhaps the most popular method for preparing chicken skewers, thanks to the smoky char it gives to the meat.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Thread the marinated chicken onto wooden or metal skewers.
- Place the skewers on the grill grates and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. Brush the chicken with the garlic Parmesan butter throughout the grilling process for extra moisture and flavor.
- The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Pro Tip: To prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before threading the chicken.
2. Air Frying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
For those looking for a healthier option, air frying is an excellent choice. It gives the chicken a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s enough space between them for air to circulate. You may need to cut the skewers to fit if they’re too large.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. Brush with garlic Parmesan butter once or twice during the cooking process to lock in moisture.
- Check the internal temperature, and once it reaches 165°F, the chicken is ready to serve.
To complete your air-fried meal, consider serving these skewers with Air-Fried Sweet Potatoes for a balanced, nutritious side dish.
3. Baking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Baking is the easiest, most hands-off method, and it’s great for those busy nights when you don’t want to hover over the stove.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the skewers on top.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. Be sure to brush the chicken with garlic Parmesan butter while baking to add extra flavor and moisture.
- The chicken is done once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
This method results in a softer texture compared to grilling, but it’s just as flavorful.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To elevate your meal, consider pairing these skewers with a variety of delicious side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- BBQ Side Dishes: A classic Deviled Egg Potato Salad or Baked Beans would pair perfectly with these skewers.
- Light Veggie Sides: For a lighter option, try a Cucumber Greek Salad or a Beetroot & Feta Salad. These salads offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the garlic Parmesan chicken.
- Dips: Enhance the flavors with dips like Creamy Pesto, Lemon Herb Tahini, or Dill Pickle Hummus.
For a heartier meal, you could also serve these skewers alongside Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole, another rich, flavorful dish that complements the chicken perfectly.
Recipe Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly every time:
- Use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Chicken should be cooked to 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill.
- Be generous with the garlic Parmesan butter. Brushing the skewers multiple times during cooking helps lock in the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer or grill. Make sure there’s enough space for the air to circulate so the chicken can cook evenly.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Here are some easy ways to customize this recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan cheese. The dish will still taste delicious and rich without the dairy.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap the parsley for other fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
- Change the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, this recipe works just as well with other proteins like shrimp or pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you use.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers store beautifully and can be easily reheated for another meal:
- Store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, wrap the skewers individually and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, use an air fryer or oven to maintain the texture of the chicken. Brush with extra garlic Parmesan butter to keep the chicken moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers be baked in the oven?
Yes! Baking is an easy option. Cook at 350°F for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through and brushing with garlic butter for extra flavor.
Are chicken skewers healthy?
Absolutely. Chicken is a lean source of protein and, when paired with simple ingredients like olive oil and garlic, these skewers make for a nutritious and low-carb meal.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating it. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more effectively.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Whether you’re grilling, baking, or air-frying, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a versatile and flavorful option for any meal. With its easy preparation, variety of cooking methods, and delicious flavor, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t forget to check out Garlic Shrimp Pasta for another garlic-laden dish to add to your rotation!
For more delicious garlic chicken recipes, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe from Allrecipes.