Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish, marinated in a savory mixture of garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Perfectly charred and tender, they make a delicious appetizer or main course served alongside garden salad, roasted potatoes, or light pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
- Garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or other dipping sauces
- Suggested sides: garden salad, garlic roasted potatoes, light herb pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized 1-inch cubes to ensure uniform cooking and juicy results.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to let the flavors infuse deeply into the meat.
- Thread the Skewers: Thread marinated chicken cubes onto wooden or metal skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces to ensure even cooking and nice charring on all sides.
- Cook the Skewers: Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through with a pleasant char. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skewers from heat and let them rest briefly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like garlic aioli or marinara, alongside suggested sides such as a garden salad or garlic roasted potatoes.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent burning while cooking.
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) intensifies the flavor but avoid marinating longer than 4 hours to prevent the lemon juice from breaking down the meat too much.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are cut evenly to promote uniform cooking and avoid dry or undercooked bites.
- You can customize the seasoning by adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for safe and perfectly cooked chicken.
- For gluten-free options, verify that all sauces and seasoning blends do not contain gluten.
