If you’re craving something savory, juicy, and packed with flavor, these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers are about to become your new favorite dinner. They are super easy to make, perfect for grilling season, but just as tasty in the oven or air fryer. Whether you are feeding the family or prepping for a backyard get together, these skewers are a total crowd pleaser. The garlic and Parmesan combo is rich, buttery, and just the right amount of cheesy. You are going to love them.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
These garlic Parmesan chicken skewers check all the boxes. They are quick to prep, full of bold, comforting flavors, and super versatile. You can grill them, bake them, or toss them in the air fryer, whatever works best for you. Plus, they are a total win with both adults and kids. At my house, we can never make enough, they disappear in minutes. They also pair so well with so many sides, making dinner feel both easy and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients
To make these flavorful garlic Parmesan chicken skewers, here is what you will need:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the meat juicy
- Garlic: Freshly minced for the best punch of flavor
- Parmesan cheese: Finely grated, it melts into the marinade and adds that salty, nutty bite
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning
- Butter: For brushing over the skewers right before serving
Note: You can find the printable recipe with exact measurements below.
Optional Add Ins and Substitutions
Spice Level Options
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. I usually add a pinch when my husband is craving something spicier. You can also serve the skewers with a side of hot sauce for dipping, perfect if not everyone at the table loves spice.
Cheese Variations
Parmesan is classic, but you can switch things up with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a bolder bite. Sometimes I mix in a bit of mozzarella for a meltier finish. If you are dairy free, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the cheese, not quite the same, but still delicious!
Using Chicken Breasts or Thighs
Both cuts work great here. Thighs stay super juicy and are my go-to, especially for grilling. But if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts are a solid choice, just be careful not to overcook them. I have made these skewers both ways, and honestly, they are always a hit either way.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step by Step Guide
1. Cut and Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into bite sized pieces, about 1.5 inch chunks work best. Make sure they are all roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better. I usually use chicken thighs since they stay juicy no matter how you cook them, but breasts work too. While you are at it, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill or in the oven.
2. Mix the Garlic Parmesan Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, freshly minced garlic, grated Parmesan, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it forms a thick, fragrant marinade. You will know it is right when it smells like garlic bread, yum! Sometimes I add a little lemon juice for a tangy kick, especially if I am grilling outside. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, it is hard to go wrong with garlic and cheese!
3. Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken into the bowl with the marinade and use your hands or tongs to coat each piece really well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, longer if you have time. I usually shoot for an hour, which lets the flavors really soak in. If you are in a rush, even 20 minutes will still do the trick. Just do not skip this step, it makes a big difference.
4. Thread the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the pieces onto your skewers, leaving just a bit of space between each one. This helps the heat circulate so they cook evenly. You can alternate the chicken with veggies like bell peppers or onions if you would like, or just keep it simple. My kids prefer them without veggies, so I usually make a separate batch just for them. Keep a little marinade set aside to brush on while they cook for extra flavor.
5. Cook the Skewers
Now for the fun part! Cook the skewers on a hot grill, in the oven, or in your air fryer. Aim for about 10 to 12 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. You want a little char on the edges, that is where all the flavor lives. Right before serving, brush the skewers with a bit of melted garlic butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Trust me, that final touch takes them over the top.
Different Cooking Methods
Grill Method
Preheat your grill to medium high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers directly over the heat and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through. The grill gives these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers an amazing smoky flavor. I love making them this way during summer, nothing beats that sizzle and smell while you are flipping them in the sunshine with a cold drink in hand.
Oven Baked Option
No grill, no problem! Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange the skewers in a single layer and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You can also broil them for the last 2 minutes if you want that extra golden crisp. I use this method when it is too cold to grill outside, it still delivers juicy chicken with delicious garlic and cheese flavor in every bite.
Air Fryer Method
For a quick and crispy version, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the skewers in the basket, leaving a little space between each one. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. This method is a weeknight lifesaver at our house. The air fryer gets the edges perfectly crispy while keeping the inside juicy. Plus, no need to heat up the oven or step outside, easy cleanup too!
Helpful Tips and Tricks
How to Keep Skewers Juicy and Flavorful
The key to juicy chicken skewers is a good marinade and not overcooking them. Make sure you let the chicken sit in the garlic Parmesan marinade for at least 30 minutes. Brushing the skewers with melted butter or leftover marinade halfway through cooking also helps lock in moisture and boost flavor. I also like to let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving, just like steak, it gives the juices time to settle back in.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Skewers
One big mistake is cutting the chicken pieces unevenly, it causes some to overcook while others stay underdone. Also, do not skip soaking wooden skewers if you are grilling or baking, or they will burn. Avoid overcrowding your pan, air fryer, or grill, the chicken needs space to cook evenly and crisp up. Lastly, resist the urge to overcook, keep a meat thermometer nearby if you are unsure. Once the internal temp hits 165°F, they are done and ready to go.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Them
These garlic Parmesan chicken skewers go with just about anything, but I love pairing them with something cool and crisp on the side. A light pasta salad, roasted potatoes, or grilled veggies all work great. For a fresh, crunchy contrast, try serving them with this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad. It is creamy, tangy, and brings balance to the rich flavors of the skewers, plus it adds a pop of color to the plate.
Serving Ideas for Parties and Weeknight Dinners
These skewers are super versatile and always feel a little more special than your average chicken dinner. For a casual weeknight, I serve them over rice or wrap them in pita with a little garlic sauce. When we have guests over, I plate them on a big platter with lemon wedges and chopped parsley for color, they look as good as they taste. They also make great party food since you can prep everything ahead and cook just before serving.
Garlic Parmesan Skewers Nutrition Facts
Caloric Breakdown and Key Nutrients
Here is a quick look at what you are getting in each serving of these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal | Based on chicken thighs |
| Protein | 29g | Great for a filling meal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | Very low carb |
| Fat | 20g | From olive oil, butter, and cheese |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | Mostly from Parmesan and butter |
| Cholesterol | 95mg | Standard for chicken thighs |
| Sodium | 480mg | Can be adjusted with seasoning |
| Vitamin A | 6% DV | From paprika |
| Calcium | 12% DV | Thanks to the Parmesan |
Simple Ways to Lighten Up the Recipe
Looking to cut down on calories or fat? Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts to reduce both without losing flavor. You can also use less butter or switch to a light olive oil spray. For a dairy free version, skip the cheese and try a garlic herb marinade instead, it is still packed with flavor. Sometimes I even serve the skewers over a big salad instead of rice to keep things light but still super satisfying.
How to Store & Reheat For Later
Storage Tips to Keep Them Fresh
If you have leftovers, you are in luck, these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers store really well. Let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. I like wrapping each skewer in foil before freezing so I can grab just what I need later. Just make sure to label the container so you do not forget what is inside.
How to Reheat Without Drying Out the Chicken
To keep the chicken juicy when reheating, skip the microwave if you can. I recommend reheating in the oven at 325°F for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until warmed through. If using the microwave, cover the skewers with a damp paper towel to hold in moisture. For extra flavor, brush a little melted butter or olive oil on top before reheating. Trust me, it brings them right back to life, still tender, still cheesy, still delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, absolutely! Chicken breasts are leaner and still work great for these skewers. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since they can dry out quicker than thighs. I have made them both ways, and they are always delicious, just make sure to marinate well and do not overcook.
How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
The best trick is to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This helps them stay moist during cooking and keeps them from catching fire on the grill or in the oven. I like to soak a big batch and freeze the extras for later!
What side dishes pair well with these skewers?
You can keep it simple with rice, grilled veggies, or a crisp salad. I often serve them with pasta salad or potato wedges. For something fresh and tangy, try a side like this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad, it balances the richness of the skewers perfectly.
Can I cook these skewers in the oven or air fryer?
Yes, both methods work really well. The oven gives you a nice roasted finish, while the air fryer gets the edges crispy without much oil. I use the air fryer on busy nights, it is fast and easy. Just check for doneness and brush with butter after cooking for extra flavor.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 325°F or microwave with a damp paper towel. I like brushing a bit of olive oil on before reheating to keep the chicken moist.
Can I prep the skewers in advance for a party?
Yes, and it makes things so much easier! You can cut and marinate the chicken a day ahead, then assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. I do this all the time for cookouts, it saves time and helps me enjoy the party.
More Easy Chicken Recipes
If you are always on the hunt for simple, flavorful chicken dinners, I have got a few more favorites for you to try. These are the kind of recipes that are easy enough for weeknights but tasty enough to serve guests.
- Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders: Sweet, smoky, and totally addictive.
- Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe: Perfectly juicy every time.
- Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe: Full of smoky, tender goodness, ideal for BBQ season.
Let me know which one you try next!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Equipment
- Grill or Oven
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1.5-inch chunks and pat dry.
- Mix olive oil, melted butter, garlic, Parmesan, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken onto metal skewers.
- Cook skewers on grill, in oven at 425°F, or in air fryer at 400°F until golden and cooked through (10-12 minutes).