These chicken skewers are packed with tasty garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan that makes every bite burst with flavor! Perfect for grilling or baking on a busy weeknight.
Let’s be honest, who can say no to chicken and cheese? I love serving them with some dipping sauce—it’s just more fun that way! Get ready for a tasty time! 🍗🧄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their tenderness, but breasts work just as well! If you’re looking for lower fat, you can use turkey. Vegetarian? Try tofu or portobello mushrooms cut into strips for a delicious alternative!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, but you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove to keep the flavors balanced!
Parmesan Cheese: Authentic Parmesan is the way to go, but if it’s not available, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free option that still offers a cheesy flavor!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite for a crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs will do just fine. If gluten is a concern, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Fresh Parsley: This adds the perfect freshness! If you don’t have parsley, basil or cilantro work well too, depending on your flavor preference.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Skewers?
The secret to crispy chicken skewers is a well-prepared coating and the right cooking technique. First, ensure you evenly coat the chicken pieces with the breadcrumb mixture. This step is crucial, as it creates that lovely crispy exterior.
- After threading the chicken onto the skewers, press the coating firmly onto the chicken.
- Preheat your grill or pan well to prevent sticking, and oil it lightly.
- Keep an eye on the skewers while grilling! Turn them carefully every 4-5 minutes to achieve even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken is cooked through, reaching 165°F (74°C).
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy and flavorful chicken skewers every time!
Chicken Skewers With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing/grilling)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend grill session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning (if you’re using it). Stir everything together well until the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
2. Add Olive Oil:
Pour the olive oil into the bowl with the dry mixture. Toss everything together until it forms a slightly sticky coating. This will help the breading stick to the chicken.
3. Thread the Chicken:
Take your skewers and thread the chicken pieces on, making sure they’re snug but not packed too tightly. Leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Coat the Chicken Skewers:
Carefully coat each chicken skewer with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the coating sticks well to the chicken pieces all around.
5. Preheat Your Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy outside. Make sure they are cooked through—check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with more chopped parsley and a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
8. Add a Zesty Finish:
Serve the chicken skewers immediately with lemon wedges. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot skewers for a delightful zesty touch!
Enjoy your tasty garlic and Parmesan chicken skewers as a delightful appetizer or main dish alongside a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for skewers. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and enjoy the rich flavor and tenderness!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy!
