These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an easy, tasty treat bursting with flavor. Juicy chunks of chicken get grilled to perfection and are coated in a garlic and parmesan cheese mixture that makes every bite just the right balance of savory and cheesy.
I love making these skewers for a quick dinner or a weekend barbecue because they come together so fast and everyone seems to enjoy them. A little tip: letting the chicken marinate in the garlic and parmesan sauce for a bit really makes the flavors stand out and keeps the meat super tender.
They’re wonderful served right off the grill with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. I find these skewers also make a great party appetizer—you can prepare them ahead, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs for juiciness and tender bites, but breasts work fine too if you like leaner meat. Just avoid overcooking them to keep the chicken juicy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must here. It adds sharp, aromatic flavor that powder just can’t match. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can be a quick backup, but use less—about 1 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a big difference with its nutty, salty taste. You can try Pecorino Romano for a tangier twist or a parmesan blend if you prefer.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright note that balances the richness. If you don’t have parsley, try fresh cilantro or basil for a different herb flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor and Juiciness in These Skewers?
The secret is marinating and careful grilling:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to an hour, to let garlic and Parmesan really soak into the chicken.
- Use medium-high heat on the grill to get a nice sear without drying out the meat.
- Leave a little gap between pieces on the skewers so heat circulates evenly.
- Cook each side about 4-5 minutes—turn gently to avoid losing juices.
- Let the cooked skewers rest a few minutes before serving to keep them tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or Grill Pan – I recommend this because it gives beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Mixing Bowl – Perfect for tossing the chicken in the marinade so all pieces soak up flavor.
- Skewers (bamboo or metal) – Bamboo ones should be soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning; metal ones are reusable and durable.
- Tongs – Handy for turning the skewers gently on the grill without piercing the meat.
- Basting Brush (optional) – Use it to apply extra marinade or a little oil during grilling for extra flavor and prevent sticking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to give the skewers a spicy or smoky kick.
- Sprinkle with grated mozzarella or sprinkle some crumbled feta after grilling for a cheesy variation.
- Incorporate sliced bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for extra veggies and color.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to 1 hour for marinating, and 10 minutes for grilling. So overall, around 50 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes, including resting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken chunks to the bowl and toss them well so they’re all coated in the garlic Parmesan marinade. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, so the flavors soak in.
3. Grill the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to help them cook evenly. Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning gently. The chicken should be nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F or 75°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. If you want, spoon any leftover marinade over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Serve the skewers warm with toasted garlic bread or a fresh salad on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and marinating. This helps ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating for 30 minutes to 1 hour is perfect for maximum flavor without breaking down the meat too much. You can marinate up to 4 hours if you have more time, but avoid overnight as the texture might become mushy.
Can I Cook These Skewers Indoors?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan or a broiler in your oven to get similar results. Just watch carefully to avoid burning since indoor heat can be less even than an outdoor grill.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to keep the chicken moist and tender.