Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress at any occasion, look no further than Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. This recipe brings together juicy, marinated chicken with tangy ranch seasoning, aromatic garlic, and a blanket of melted Parmesan cheese, all grilled to golden perfection. Whether you’re firing up the barbecue or using your oven, these skewers promise a savory, crowd-pleasing experience that’s as fun to eat as it is simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers truly special is the way simple pantry staples combine for bold, unforgettable flavor. Each ingredient has a role to play—from locking in moisture to adding pops of color and richness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken stays juicy and soaks up every bit of the marinade’s goodness.
- Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning cling to each piece and keeps the chicken super moist on the grill.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: The star seasoning, lending herby, tangy flavor that defines the dish.
- Garlic Powder: For a deep, savory kick that deliciously permeates the chicken.
- Onion Powder: Rounds out the flavor and adds a sweet, lingering finish.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and enhances every bite.
- Salt: Just the right touch to make the other flavors sing—don’t skip it!
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese creates a salty, melty crust that everyone loves.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top livens up the finished skewers with color and freshness.
- Wooden or Metal Skewers: Essential for building those perfectly portioned, grill-ready sticks.
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prep the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This little trick keeps them from burning on the barbecue, so don’t skip it while prepping your other ingredients. Metal skewers need no extra prep—just rub them with a little oil if you want to avoid sticking!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, toss your chicken cubes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well so every piece is coated in that zesty, flavorful mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—though letting them marinate a few hours will deliver an even deeper flavor for your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Just before you’re ready to cook, fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. A preheated grill ensures gorgeous sear marks and keeps the chicken from sticking or drying out. If you’re using the oven instead, set it to 425°F for a nicely even bake.
Step 4: Thread the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, spacing them just slightly so they cook evenly on all sides. This also makes for perfectly portioned Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that look as good as they taste.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Lay your skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and develops beautiful grill marks. In the last few minutes of grilling, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the skewers so it melts just enough to create a bubbling, cheesy crust.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once off the heat, give your skewers a shower of fresh chopped parsley if you like a burst of color and freshness. Serve these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers immediately, while the cheese is gooey and hot!
How to Serve Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
A finishing garnish can take these skewers from tasty to eye-catching. Fresh chopped parsley delivers a pop of green and a subtle herbal note. Try a quick squeeze of lemon over the top or, for true ranch fans, a drizzle of ranch dressing or a dollop of garlic aioli for dipping on the side.
Side Dishes
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers sit beautifully alongside crisp green salads, roasted veggies, or garlic bread. For a more casual spread, serve them with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or simple grilled veggies. A cool, creamy potato salad or rice pilaf also pairs well, balancing out the savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the skewers upright in a mason jar bouquet, or lay them over a vivid platter of mixed greens for a fun, party-ready centerpiece. For mini appetizers, cut the chicken into smaller bites and use cocktail picks. You can even de-skewer everything and toss it onto flatbreads or wraps with extra ranch sauce for a creative twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, simply remove the chicken from the skewers and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, perfect for easy grab-and-go lunches or salads.
Freezing
These skewers freeze beautifully. Place the cooled, cooked chicken pieces (off the skewers) in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To warm up your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, pop the chicken into a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes, or microwave gently in 30-second bursts. Reheating on the stove in a covered skillet with a splash of broth will help keep them moist, and a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan livens up leftovers in seconds.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are deliciously juicy and full of flavor, making them a great alternative in Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Just make sure to cook them until fully done—they may need a couple of extra minutes on the grill.
Is it possible to make these without a grill?
Yes! The oven method works wonderfully—just bake the skewers on a lined sheet at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. You’ll still get tender, savory chicken with that signature Parmesan finish.
What’s the best way to keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Preheating the grill and brushing it lightly with oil helps a lot. Turning the skewers only when they release easily is another good trick. Marinating the chicken thoroughly, thanks to the olive oil, also prevents sticking and adds rich flavor.
Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
You sure can! Marinate the chicken and thread it on skewers early in the day or even the night before. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but lets the flavors meld for even tastier Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
Are these skewers gluten-free?
They are naturally gluten-free, just double-check that your ranch seasoning mix doesn’t contain any added gluten. The rest of the ingredients keep things safe and savory for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in search of a recipe that’s as irresistible as it is easy, these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers deserve a spot on your menu. The bold flavor, juicy texture, and cheesy finish will win over everyone at the table. Give them a try—you’ll love how simple and satisfying they are, whether for a summer barbecue or a cozy night in!
Print
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a savory blend of ranch seasoning and garlic, then grilled to juicy perfection and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through with grill marks.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over chicken in the last few minutes of grilling. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Pair with ranch dressing or garlic aioli.
- For oven baking, preheat to 425°F and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
