If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that feels both special and incredibly simple, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with bold flavors from garlic, fresh lemon, and savory Parmesan, these skewers bring juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken to your table in under an hour. Whether you’re grilling for a weekend BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is the perfect way to elevate your chicken game with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the zestiness of lemon juice to the richness of Parmesan and butter, these simple staples come together beautifully.
- 1-1½ lb chicken breasts, cubed (or thighs): Chicken is the hearty base that soaks up every bit of seasoning and garlic butter.
- 3 Tbsp olive oil: Helps tenderize the chicken and creates a silky marinade base.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts that classic garlic flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle depth and savory complexity.
- 1-2 tsp no salt added lemon pepper seasoning: Brings brightness and a subtle peppery kick.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors in the chicken.
- ¼ cup lemon juice: Injects fresh acidity that balances richness perfectly.
- 4-6 Tbsp butter: Creates a rich, luscious coating when melted with garlic.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show, infusing each bite with irresistible aroma.
- ¼ cup Parmesan, grated: Adds salty, nutty depth, finishing the skewers with a savory sparkle.
- 2 tsp lemon juice (optional): A final splash to brighten the garlic butter.
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and vibrant green color; cilantro can be a fun twist.
- 1 small lemon, sliced for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and extra citrus zing on the plate.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the cubed chicken in a large bowl. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly, resulting in juicy bites every time. Toss the chicken in olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and all the seasonings—paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece gets coated in this flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 15 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge. This step sets the stage for that unforgettable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the chicken is marinating, melt the butter gently over low heat in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter with its rich aroma. Once the garlic butter is ready, set it aside but keep it warm or at room temperature so it’s easy to brush on the skewers later and maximize flavor.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Chicken
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them — this allows even cooking and easy flipping. Preheat your grill to medium/high heat, aiming for around 400°F, which is perfect for achieving that beautiful golden char. Place the skewers on the grill grates and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning often for even grilling. During this time, combine the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley into your garlic butter for a delicious finishing touch.
Step 4: Finish with Garlic Parmesan Butter
After the initial grilling, let the skewers rest on the grill for about 2 minutes per side while you brush them generously with the garlic Parmesan butter mixture. The heat from the grill will slightly melt the cheese and herbs into the chicken, creating a glossy, flavorful glaze. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it. After taking the skewers off the grill, place them on a baking sheet and brush again with more garlic Parmesan butter along with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten every mouthful.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes can really elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. Thin lemon slices not only bring cheerful color but also give guests a zesty option to squeeze over their skewers. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of green freshness and a mild herbal contrast that complements the cheesy garlic coating perfectly.
Side Dishes
These skewers love great company on the plate. Consider pairing them with a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus notes, or a creamy risotto that balances the garlicky punch. Roasted vegetables or grilled corn also bring color and texture, making your meal a full celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, try serving your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe on a wooden board with rustic dipping sauces like a tangy yogurt dip or a smoky roasted red pepper sauce. For a casual gathering, place each skewer directly on small plates lined with parchment for easy handling. You could also slice the chicken off the skewers and toss it into a warm pita with some greens and extra garlic Parmesan butter for a playful twist on presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover skewers make fantastic next-day meals or quick snacks. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken retains its tenderness while still packed with that unmistakable garlic Parmesan flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save these skewers for longer, freezing them is a great option. Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To bring your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also brush a little extra garlic butter on top before reheating to refresh that luscious finish. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe because they stay juicy and tender. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before using?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning on the grill, making your cooking experience easier and safer.
Can I make this recipe indoors?
Definitely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the skewers under the broiler in your oven or on a stovetop grill pan. Just watch them closely to avoid burning and flip often for even cooking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F, which ensures your chicken is cooked safely and remains juicy. The chicken should also have a nice golden color on the outside.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! Mixing the marinade a day before and storing it in the fridge will save you prep time. Marinate your chicken just before cooking for the best flavor infusion.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing freshly grilled Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe with friends and family. This recipe is straightforward but brimming with bright, comforting flavors that make every bite unforgettable. Give it a try on your next cookout or weeknight dinner—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create something so delicious and impressive.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers offer a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken experience, marinated in zesty lemon and a blend of spices, then brushed with a rich garlic butter infused with Parmesan and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying summer meal that’s both savory and fresh.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1–1½ lb chicken breasts, cubed (or thighs)
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1–2 tsp no salt added lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Garlic Parmesan Butter
- 4–6 Tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup parmesan, grated
- 2 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (fresh cilantro can also be used)
Garnish
- 1 small lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, add the cubed chicken ensuring the pieces are of equal size for even cooking. Add olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Mix well to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes to up to 4 hours.
- Make the garlic butter: When ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers. Place them on a flat baking sheet. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes to infuse the butter with garlic flavor. Remove from heat and keep warm or at room temperature.
- Grill the chicken skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking on all sides. This will create a nice char while locking in juices.
- Finish with garlic Parmesan butter: After initial grilling, let the skewers sit on the grill for about 2 minutes on each side, brushing generously with the prepared garlic Parmesan butter mixed with grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley. Continue turning and basting to build up layers of flavor. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165ºF.
- Rest and serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest on a baking sheet. Brush again with the leftover garlic Parmesan butter and add a little squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Garnish with lemon slices if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) to maximize flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier skewer.
- Fresh cilantro can be used as an alternative to parsley for a different herbal note.
- Make sure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165ºF for safe consumption.
