GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN SKEWERS

Tired of the same old chicken dinners? Wishing you could whip up something that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple? Then get ready to meet your new weeknight hero: Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – So Easy! These skewers are bursting with tangy ranch, savory garlic, and rich parmesan, all grilled (or baked!) to juicy perfection. Trust me, you’re going to absolutely adore this recipe and it’s destined to become a family favorite.

Gathering Your Heavenly Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavor-packed chicken skewers. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples!

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.

For the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Marinade:

• 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing: The creamy, tangy base of our flavor explosion!
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that’s irresistible.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced. Fresh is best for that pungent, aromatic kick!
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Because you can never have too much garlic, right?
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Complements the garlic and adds another layer of savory flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.

Other Essentials:

• Wooden Skewers: Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Trust me, this step is crucial!
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish. Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step to Skewer Perfection

Let’s get to the fun part – putting these amazing skewers together! This recipe is seriously so simple, even the kids can help.

Marinating the Chicken (The Key to Flavor!)

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is your magical marinade!
2. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is slathered in that deliciousness!
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be! I often let mine sit for a few hours, or even overnight for maximum impact.

Assembling the Skewers

1. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Don’t overcrowd them – leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. About 4-5 pieces per skewer is ideal.

Cooking Options (Grill, Bake, or Pan-Fry!)

Here are three ways to cook your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Choose the method that works best for you!

Option 1: Grilling (For that Smoky Char)

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results!

Option 2: Baking (Easy and Convenient)

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Turn them halfway through for even browning.

Option 3: Pan-Frying (Quick and Delicious)

1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the skewers in the skillet (you may need to do this in batches) and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions (Get Creative!)

These skewers are incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Serve them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce. Ranch dressing or a creamy garlic aioli would be amazing!
• Make it a meal by serving them over rice, quinoa, or pasta.
• Add them to a salad for a protein-packed lunch.
• Serve them with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a complete and healthy meal.

The Secret to Juicy, Flavorful Chicken

Okay, let’s talk about the most important thing: preventing dry, boring chicken! Here are my top tips for ensuring your skewers are always juicy and delicious:

• Don’t Overcook: Chicken dries out quickly, so use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the perfect temperature (165°F or 74°C).
• Don’t Skip the Marinade: The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist.
• Soak Your Skewers: This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

Variations (Spice It Up!)

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• Add Vegetables: Thread vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers along with the chicken.
• Use Different Cheeses: Try using a blend of parmesan and mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Lemon Herb Twist: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like oregano and thyme to the marinade.

More Garlic Parmesan Chicken Goodness!

If you are a fan of garlic and parmesan chicken, you MUST try these other amazing recipes. You will not be disappointed!

• How about trying the GARLICKY PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA for a quick and easy weeknight dinner?
• Or perhaps the GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN POTATO HEAVEN?
• And if you’re in the mood for something extra special, you can’t go wrong with PARMESAN CHICKEN.
• I also highly recommend the GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN!
• Don’t forget the GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA too!
• Finally you should check out COWBOY BUTTER CHICKEN!

Storing Leftovers (If There Are Any!)

If you happen to have any leftover Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or skillet until heated through.

Final Thoughts and Tips

There you have it! Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that are incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The key is not overcooking the chicken and letting it marinate long enough. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and vegetables to create your own signature version. I’m confident this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Now, go forth and create some deliciousness! Happy cooking!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Amelia Chen-Morrison

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. The chicken is marinated in a tangy ranch, savory garlic, and rich parmesan mixture, then grilled, baked, or pan-fried to juicy perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Plastic Wrap
• Wooden skewers (soaked)
• Grill or Baking sheet or Large skillet
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Parchment paper (optional for baking)
• Olive oil (for skillet or grill)

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
• Fresh parsley, chopped optional garnish

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
• For grilling: Preheat grill to medium heat (350-400°F). Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place skewers on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• For pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place skewers in the skillet (in batches if needed) and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for maximum flavor. Be sure to soak the wooden skewers to prevent them from burning on the grill or in the oven. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. These skewers are delicious served as an appetizer or as a main course with rice, quinoa, pasta, or a salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or skillet until heated through. To add vegetables, thread cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers along with the chicken.