The way the smoky char kisses the creamy ranch and garlic parmesan coating on these chicken skewers is nothing short of a flavor explosion. It’s a surprisingly simple recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results, perfect for a weeknight grilled dinner or a weekend bbq recipes.
Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, perfectly cooked chicken skewers, each bite bursting with savory garlic, tangy ranch, and salty parmesan. This garlic parmesan chicken is not only incredibly delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Success Key
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of ranch, garlic, and parmesan creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile.
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep time and a fast grilling process make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: The skewer format ensures even cooking and juicy, tender results every time.
The Essential Components
Using high-quality ingredients is the first step to creating exceptional chicken skewers. Fresh herbs, real parmesan cheese, and a good quality ranch dressing will elevate this dish from good to unforgettable. Don’t skimp on the garlic either – it’s a key player in the flavor symphony!
- Chicken Breast: (Provides a lean protein base that soaks up the flavors beautifully).
- Ranch Dressing: (Adds a tangy creaminess and a blend of herbs that complement the garlic and parmesan).
- Garlic: (Essential for that pungent, savory flavor that defines garlic parmesan chicken).
- Parmesan Cheese: (Grated finely, it creates a salty, nutty crust that’s simply irresistible).
- Olive Oil: (Helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking to the grill).
- Salt & Pepper: (Enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients).
- Fresh Parsley: (Adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal).
- Skewers: (Metal or wooden, for easy grilling and serving).
Swaps & Alternatives
- If you don’t have chicken breast, chicken thighs work well too, though they will take a bit longer to cook.
- For a dairy-free option, use a vegan parmesan cheese alternative and a dairy-free ranch dressing.
- Dried parsley can be used in place of fresh, but use about half the amount as the flavor is more concentrated.
- Garlic powder can be substituted for fresh garlic, but fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
- Use wooden skewers? Be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Chef’s Twists
Want to take these chicken skewers to the next level? Here are a few ideas to add a gourmet touch.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
- Mix in some lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note.
- Brush the skewers with a garlic-infused butter during the last few minutes of grilling for extra richness.
- Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts after grilling for added texture and nutty flavor.
The Complete Method
Making these Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is surprisingly simple. The key is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate. Then, it’s just a matter of threading the chicken onto skewers and grilling them to perfection. Get ready for a delicious and easy bbq recipes win!
1. Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and makes them easy to thread onto the skewers.
2. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with ranch dressing, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. You could even try this marinade on Crock Pot Ranch Chicken for a different take!
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. This allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming.
4. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Skewers
Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy! These would be amazing served alongside some Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken & Veggies.
Troubleshooting Guide
- Undercooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- Dry Chicken: Don’t overcook the chicken. Grilling for too long will dry it out. Marinating helps prevent this.
- Sticking to the Grill: Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before grilling.
Serving Ideas
These Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They make a great appetizer, main course, or even a fun addition to a summer barbecue.
Serve them with a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, for a complete and healthy meal. A simple salad or some rice pilaf also makes a great accompaniment. For a more indulgent option, serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or mac and cheese. You could even chop them up and add them to a salad for a protein boost. They’d be delicious with a side of Parmesan Chicken too!
If you’re looking for a fun and interactive way to serve them, set up a skewer bar with a variety of toppings and sauces. Let your guests customize their own skewers with things like cherry tomatoes, olives, and different types of cheese.
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What makes these chicken skewers so flavorful?
The combination of smoky char, creamy ranch dressing, savory garlic, and salty parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
What can I do to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before grilling the skewers.
I don’t have chicken breast. What else can I use?
Chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to chicken breast, but they will take a bit longer to cook.
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Grill
- Grill tongs
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with ranch dressing, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F).
- Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char and an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
