Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
There’s something utterly irresistible about Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic — the juicy, golden chunks of chicken, the crispy layer of cheesy goodness, and that kiss of fragrant garlic. This dish is my go-to for easy weeknight dinners, festive summer grilling, or sharing at gatherings because it never fails to impress. The magic is in how the simple ingredients work together: tender chicken soaks up a marinade rich with olive oil, zesty garlic, and the nutty bite of Parmesan, then grills to perfection. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or just looking for a family-friendly main, these skewers are bold, flavorful, and ready to steal the show.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple — each ingredient for Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic has a starring role, lending its character to the final flavor bomb. From the juicy chicken to the herby seasoning, every piece matters, and you probably have most of these in your kitchen already.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cubed for tender and juicy skewers that cook evenly.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade coat every nook and cranny of the chicken.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for maximum flavor — the heart and soul of this dish.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Distributes evenly, creating a savory crust with every bite.
- Italian Seasoning: Brings a medley of herbs for depth and a pop of classic Mediterranean aroma.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors and keeps the juiciness locked in.
- Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and complexity.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top for color and freshness at serving time.
- Lemon Wedges (optional): Brightens and lifts the finished dish—just a squeeze transforms each bite.
- Wooden or Metal Skewers: For threading your marinated chicken and making it grill-ready.
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic
Step 1: Prep Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes while you prep everything else. This simple step ensures your skewers won’t char or catch fire on the grill — a detail that makes all the difference!
Step 2: Make the Flavor-Packed Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. The olive oil acts as the flavor carrier, while the garlic and Parmesan infuse the chicken with depth and cheesy aroma. Mix everything well for a thick, fragrant marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken cubes to the bowl, tossing thoroughly so every piece is lavishly coated in that savory mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got the time, a full two hours will really supercharge the flavor.
Step 4: Skewer and Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each cube for that beautiful all-over char. Grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. The chicken should be golden, glistening, and cooked all the way through (look for an internal temp of 165°F).
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once off the grill, shower your Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic with a scattering of fresh parsley and serve alongside lemon wedges. That fresh, herbaceous note from the parsley and the tangy zing from lemon are the perfect grace notes.
How to Serve Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic

Garnishes
A final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley goes a long way, brightening up the plate and adding a fresh herbal touch. A gentle squeeze of lemon over the hot skewers really lifts the flavors and wakes up all those savory notes. You can even grate a touch more Parmesan on top just before serving if you’re feeling extra!
Side Dishes
These Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic love company! Pile them next to grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, a simple green salad, or a fluffy scoop of herbed rice. They also play well with a bowl of creamy tzatziki or a tangy yogurt dip for bonus flavor and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeding a crowd, serve the skewers family-style on a big platter with lemon wedges scattered around and a bowl of fresh herbs in the center. For an appetizer or party snack, slide the chicken off the skewers and spear them with toothpicks. Or try plating them over a bed of arugula for a light, grown-up twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cover the chicken in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to meld, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner just as mouthwatering.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken (off the skewers) in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely first, then just thaw in the fridge overnight for an easy, ready-to-go option on busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the chicken into a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat. Microwaving works in a pinch, just use short bursts to avoid drying them out—no one likes rubbery chicken!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you even juicier, more flavorful skewers. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even grilling and watch for doneness, since they can take a smidge longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem at all. You can bake Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic in your oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through. You’ll still get that cheesy, savory coating with minimal fuss!
Can I make these Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill or bake. You can also cook them ahead and reheat just before serving, which is perfect for easy entertaining.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It sure is! All the ingredients in Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic are gluten-free, so it’s a fantastic option for feeding just about anyone. If you’re serving with a dip or side, just double-check those labels to keep everything gluten-free.
What’s the best way to cut the chicken for even cooking?
Try to slice the chicken into 1-inch cubes so they cook uniformly. If you end up with pieces that are a little bit bigger or smaller, thread similar sizes together on each skewer for the best results on the grill.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic enough—they’re easy, fuss-free, and packed with flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a summertime BBQ or a cozy weeknight at home, these skewers bring people together and make dinner something to look forward to. Give them a try and watch them disappear!
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Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic are a flavorful and easy dish perfect for summer grilling. Tender chicken marinated in a garlic and Parmesan mixture, grilled to perfection, and served with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- lemon wedges for serving (optional)
- wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Great paired with grilled vegetables, salad, or rice.
- You can also bake these at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg