Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
If you are craving a dish that is bursting with flavor, wonderfully tender, and easy to prepare, you cannot go wrong with this Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe. These skewers combine juicy chicken pieces marinated in a fragrant blend of garlic, zesty lemon, and sharp Parmesan cheese, all kissed by a smoky grill. Perfectly balanced with Italian seasoning and a subtle hint of crushed red pepper flakes, they bring a vibrant taste that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Whether you’re grilling on a sunny afternoon or cooking indoors on a grill pan, this recipe promises a delightful meal that’s as impressive as it is simple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards creating the perfect Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma that make this dish so memorable.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Cut into 1-inch cubes for uniform grilling and juicy bites.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps to keep the chicken moist and serves as the base for the marinade.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds a robust, savory punch that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a salty, nutty richness that melts slightly on the grill.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Infuses a fresh citrus brightness to balance the richness.
- Dried Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Combines herbs like oregano and basil to give a classic Italian flair.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who enjoy a little extra kick.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Provides a pop of color and herbal freshness when sprinkled before serving.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Necessary for threading the chicken and grilling evenly.
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers and Marinade
If you are using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, tangy lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. This marinade is the secret sauce, infusing every bite with layers of bright and savory goodness.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken cubes into the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let your chicken soak up the flavors for a minimum of 20 minutes, although letting it rest for up to 2 hours deepens the taste and tenderness even more. This step guarantees juicy, flavorful skewers that will wow everyone at the table.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto the Skewers
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers evenly, making sure not to crowd them. This arrangement allows the heat to circulate properly, resulting in evenly cooked, beautifully grilled chicken that retains its juices.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the hot surface, grilling for 8 to 10 minutes total. Turn them occasionally to achieve those irresistible char marks and to ensure the chicken cooks all the way through. The combination of the grill’s smoky flavor and the Parmesan’s bubbling crust is nothing short of magical.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Transfer the finished Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe to a serving plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a vibrant freshness that enhances the dish’s appearance and taste.
How to Serve Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish here to brighten up the plate, but you can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to elevate the flavors even more. For a little crunch, finely diced roasted red peppers or toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top add wonderful texture contrasts.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the zestiness perfectly. For heartier options, try garlic butter rice or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, which echo the smoky notes of the chicken without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can turn these skewers into a party favorite. Consider serving them on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like tzatziki or roasted red pepper hummus. For a casual meal, place the skewers atop warm pita bread alongside chopped tomatoes and cucumbers for a quick chicken gyro-style dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They will remain tasty and safe to eat for up to three days. Remove the chicken from the skewers before refrigerating to save space and make reheating easier.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken pieces separately, after removing them from the skewers, in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken will last up to two months, preserving most of the flavor and texture for future quick meals.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and keep the Parmesan from turning rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Do I have to use Parmesan cheese in the marinade?
Parmesan is key to this recipe’s signature flavor and texture, creating a savory crust during grilling. However, you could experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, but skipping cheese would change the dish significantly.
How long can I marinate the chicken before grilling?
Marinating for at least 20 minutes is essential, but you can leave the chicken in the marinade for up to 2 hours. Any longer, and the lemon juice may start to “cook” the chicken, altering the texture.
Can I cook these skewers indoors without a grill?
Yes, grilling on a grill pan or even broiling in the oven works well. Just be sure to turn the skewers regularly to get even cooking and slight charring on all sides.
Is this Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe is one of those dishes that feels effortlessly special every time you make it. It’s packed with flavor, quick to prepare, and versatile enough to suit any occasion from casual dinners to weekend barbecues. I truly hope you enjoy grilling up these skewers as much as I enjoyed sharing the recipe. Give it a try soon and watch it become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire!
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Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These flavorful Chicken Skewers with Parmesan and Garlic are a perfect grilled main course, featuring tender marinated chicken cubes coated in a savory blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Quick to prepare and grill, they offer a juicy and mildly charred finish that pairs beautifully with sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to blend all ingredients.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and achieve a nice char.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, distributing pieces evenly.
- Grill Chicken: Place the skewers on the preheated grill, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes total. Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks through evenly and develops a light char on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Serve these skewers with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables to complete your meal.
- For an added touch of richness and flavor, incorporate 2 tablespoons of softened butter into the marinade.
- To vary the texture and juiciness, substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
