These Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Marinated in ranch seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan, they are bursting with flavor and super simple to make.
Honestly, they are so good that you might just find yourself making them every weekend! I love serving them with a side of veggies for a colorful dinner. Enjoy the yumminess! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for skewers because they cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, use thighs instead for added flavor and moisture.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the star of the dish! If you’re out, feel free to make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. It gives a similar taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a robust flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but fresh really elevates the dish!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. If you want a different flavor, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option could be good substitutes.
Olive Oil: This helps the marinade stick to the chicken and keeps it moist. Avocado oil is a great alternative if you want a higher smoke point.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating your chicken is key! This allows flavors to soak in and keeps the chicken tender. Make sure to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, aim for a couple of hours.
- Mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly so everything blends well.
- Be generous about coating the chicken cubes and use your hands to ensure they are covered!
- Leave a little space on the skewers. This helps them cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
- Turn the skewers frequently while grilling to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour, including 30 minutes to marinate the chicken and another 10-12 minutes for grilling. You’ll spend the remaining time prepping the ingredients and getting everything ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well to create a flavorful marinade that will soak into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure all the pieces are coated evenly. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes — or up to 2 hours for extra flavor!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
Once the chicken is marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Now it’s time to cook! Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes so they cook evenly and develop those delicious grill marks. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. If you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely finish. Serve these yummy skewers with your favorite sides and enjoy!
These Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not just delicious; they’re perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! These skewers work well with shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours. If you need to marinate it longer, aim for around 4 hours—just be cautious, as too long can make the chicken mushy.
What Should I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a simple salad, grilled vegetables, or over a bed of rice or quinoa to complete the meal. They also make a great addition to a summer barbecue spread!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. Enjoy them cold on a salad for a tasty lunch, too!
