Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Flavor and Simplicity

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful and savory dish that combines tender chicken, bold garlic, and the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for grilling season, special gatherings, or just a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a family or impressing guests, these skewers will surely be a hit. Here’s everything you need to know to make the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, including ingredients, instructions, tips, and calorie information.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet the flavor is extraordinary. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a deliciously bold marinade that infuses the chicken with taste and tenderness. These skewers are versatile, perfect for grilling, broiling, or baking. Plus, they can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Paired with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice, they make for a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients:

To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Wooden skewers or metal skewers (about 6-8 depending on size)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the skewers)

For the Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)

For Garnish:

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling after grilling)
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into even-sized cubes. If you are using chicken breasts, slice them into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes. Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for a juicier and more flavorful option. Regardless of which cut you choose, ensure the pieces are uniform in size so they cook evenly on the skewers.
  2. Soak the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before assembling the chicken. This helps prevent the skewers from burning during grilling.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

  1. Combine the Marinade Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, honey (if using), oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. The olive oil helps the marinade adhere to the chicken, while the Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor. The garlic and lemon juice bring a zesty kick to the dish.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken cubes into a resealable plastic bag or shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix it well to ensure each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though marinating for 2-4 hours will yield even more flavor. If you have time, marinating overnight works wonders, too.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

  1. Preheat the Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) or your oven to 400°F if you plan to bake the skewers. If you’re broiling, set the oven to the broil setting.
  2. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to skewer the chicken pieces. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, ensuring the pieces are snug but not too tightly packed. This allows for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Skewers

  1. Grill the Skewers: If you’re grilling, brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when fully cooked.
  2. Broil the Skewers: If using the oven to broil, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Broil the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking, as broiling can cook food quickly.
  3. Bake the Skewers: To bake the skewers, place them on a baking sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Flip the skewers halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove the Skewers: Once the chicken is golden and cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill, broiler, or oven. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the skewers with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a side of dipping sauce: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers go wonderfully with a side of marinara sauce, ranch, or a homemade garlic aioli. These dipping sauces enhance the overall flavor and provide an extra creamy element to balance the savory garlic Parmesan taste.
  • Pair with vegetables: Pair the skewers with roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. The veggies’ lightness complements the richness of the chicken skewers.
  • Serve on a salad: For a lighter meal, serve the skewers on top of a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing.
  • Make it a wrap: Wrap the skewers in a warm flatbread with some hummus, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

  1. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Ensure there’s a little space between the chicken pieces when skewering them. This ensures that heat circulates around each piece for even cooking.
  2. Adjust the Garlic: Garlic is the star of this dish, but if you’re not a huge fan of its strong flavor, you can reduce the amount or use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
  3. Marinate for Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or even overnight. The longer it sits in the marinade, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be.
  4. Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add your own twist to the marinade. You can include crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or experiment with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for added complexity.
  5. Grill or Bake: Both methods work well for this recipe, but grilling adds a nice smoky flavor that enhances the dish. If you’re baking, be sure to use a baking sheet with a rack so the chicken cooks evenly on all sides.
  6. Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices in the chicken, making them even more tender and flavorful.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Note: The calorie count and nutritional values can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredient brands used.

Final Thoughts:

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleaser that can easily be made for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue. The combination of tender chicken and bold flavors makes them a favorite in many households. With the flexibility to grill, broil, or bake the skewers, and the ability to customize the seasoning, this recipe is both versatile and customizable. Serve with a variety of sides, and you’ll have a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these skewers are sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe!

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