Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

When the warm weather beckons for outdoor grilling, nothing quite hits the spot like flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs. These skewers of tender chicken bathed in a zesty garlic and Parmesan marinade are a crowd-pleaser and a must for effortless family dinners or casual backyard gatherings. The sizzle of the grill caramelizes the Parmesan, adding a crispy, irresistible touch to each juicy bite.

I remember the time my grill decided to act up during a birthday picnic, and these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs saved the day. We improvised by finishing them in the oven, and they still turned out scrumptious, leaving everyone clamoring for seconds. The magic lies in using fresh, quality ingredients that truly make each kebab shine, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether served fresh off the grill or enjoyed as leftovers in a salad or stuffed into a pita, these kebabs are a celebration of bold flavors and simple pleasures.

Quick Benefits

• Packed with Flavor: The zesty garlic and Parmesan marinade ensure every bite is bursting with delicious flavor.
• Versatile: Can be easily adapted with substitutions like turkey breast or pork tenderloin for a different twist.
• Convenient Leftovers: Store well in the fridge for up to three days and can be repurposed in salads, pitas, or as a standalone meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, these kebabs are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Flavorful and Zesty: Each bite of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs is packed with a zesty garlic and Parmesan marinade, offering a burst of flavor in every skewer.
• Quick and Easy: Ideal for warm weather grilling, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for effortless family dinners or casual backyard gatherings.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out ingredients like turkey breast or pork tenderloin, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: The kebabs store well in the fridge for up to three days, and leftovers can be repurposed in salads or sandwiches, ensuring no delicious bite goes to waste.
• Perfect for Grilling: The Parmesan crisps on the grill and caramelizes, adding a mouthwatering element to the kebabs that will keep everyone coming back for more.
• Mediterranean Flavors: Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, these kebabs celebrate fresh ingredients and robust seasonings, offering a taste of summer in every skewer.
• Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family cookout or a casual dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress guests with their smoky Parmesan crust and juicy chicken.
• Balanced Meal Option: Pair these kebabs with grilled vegetables, rice, salads, or pita bread for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients for Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Main

• 900 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

• 30 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 30 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 60 ml white vinegar

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Pro Tips for Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavors, but if possible, marinate for up to 12 hours for the best taste. Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken will prevent them from burning on the grill, ensuring even cooking. When grilling the kebabs, make sure to grill over medium heat with the lid closed, turning every 5 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly juicy and flavorful kebabs.

If you’re looking to switch up the protein, turkey breast or firm tofu can be great substitutes for the chicken, just remember to adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure proper doneness. These kebabs pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, fresh salads, or even pita bread for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to make a double batch because these kebabs tend to disappear quickly due to their deliciously smoky Parmesan crust and juicy chicken, making them a hit at any gathering.

How to Make Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Preparation of Chicken

Dice chicken breasts into 2.5 cm cubes.

Step 2: Skewer Assembly

Skewer the chicken cubes onto 8 metal or soaked wooden skewers.

Step 3: Marinade Mixing

Combine Parmesan cheese, white vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until a marinade forms.

Step 4: Coating and Marination

Coat the chicken kebabs with the marinade, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to 12 hours.

Step 5: Grilling

Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the kebabs with the lid closed, turning every 5 minutes until evenly browned and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C.

Step 6: Serving

Place the cooked kebabs on a platter and serve while still warm.

Storage Tips

To store the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These kebabs can be stored for up to three days. When ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the oven or microwave. Leftover kebabs can also be chopped up and added to salads or stuffed into pitas for a delicious lunch option. The bold flavors of the kebabs stay intact even after storing, making them a versatile and tasty dish to enjoy later.

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are a flavorful dish that can be easily adapted to personal preferences. If you don’t have white vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor. Additionally, fresh minced garlic can replace garlic powder by using two to three cloves for a more intense garlic taste. For those looking to switch up the protein, turkey breast or pork tenderloin can be used instead of chicken, with grilling time adjusted accordingly. Pair these kebabs with sides like tzatziki, Greek salad, grilled corn, or a lemony quinoa pilaf for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have white vinegar on hand, apple cider vinegar can be used as a suitable substitute to provide a similar tanginess to the marinade. Alternatively, you can try using lemon juice or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile. For a fresher taste, consider using minced garlic instead of garlic powder. Simply substitute 2-3 cloves of minced garlic for the garlic powder to enhance the dish with a more pungent garlic flavor.

In terms of protein alternatives, if you prefer a different meat, turkey breast or pork tenderloin cut into bite-sized pieces can be used instead of chicken for these kebabs. Just remember to adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure even cooking. For a vegetarian option, firm tofu can be a great substitute for a plant-based version of these kebabs. Tofu absorbs marinades well and can provide a delicious alternative for those looking to enjoy a meatless meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try assembling the grilled Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs on a large platter lined with freshly picked herbs like rosemary and thyme. The vibrant greenery will not only add a pop of color but also infuse a subtle aromatic essence to the dish. Serve the kebabs alongside a selection of colorful grilled veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, to create a visually appealing and delicious spread that will impress your guests.

Another unique way to enjoy these flavorful kebabs is by deconstructing them into a DIY kebab bowl station. Set up a buffet-style spread with bowls of quinoa, couscous, mixed greens, and various toppings like feta cheese, olives, and roasted nuts. Allow your guests to build their own Mediterranean-inspired bowls by adding the grilled Garlic Parmesan Chicken, drizzling with a lemony vinaigrette, and garnishing with fresh herbs. This interactive and customizable meal idea is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners where everyone can tailor their dish to their liking.

FAQs for Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes. Turkey breast or firm tofu can be substituted, but adjust grilling time to ensure proper doneness.

How long should I marinate the chicken for?

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 12 hours before grilling.

Should I soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading chicken to prevent burning on the grill.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with these garlic Parmesan chicken kebabs?

They pair nicely with grilled vegetables, rice, fresh salads, or pita bread for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs as much as I do. The combination of zesty garlic, savory Parmesan, and juicy chicken truly makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these kebabs are sure to impress with their bold flavors and tender texture.

Remember, a little time marinating goes a long way in enhancing the taste, so plan ahead if you can. Experiment with different sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or fresh salads to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to make extra because these kebabs are so delicious, there may not be any leftovers! Embrace the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs and elevate your outdoor cooking experience with each flavorful bite.

Savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs: Bursting with zesty flavors and a crispy Parmesan crust, these kebabs are perfect for grilling and family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (8 kebabs)

Ingredients

Main

• 900 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

• 30 ml extra-virgin olive oil
• 30 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 60 ml white vinegar

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preparation of Chicken: Dice chicken breasts into 2.5 cm cubes.
2. Skewer Assembly: Skewer the chicken cubes onto 8 metal or soaked wooden skewers.
3. Marinade Mixing: Combine Parmesan cheese, white vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until a marinade forms.
4. Coating and Marination: Coat the chicken kebabs with the marinade, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to 12 hours.
5. Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the kebabs with the lid closed, turning every 5 minutes until evenly browned and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C.
6. Serving: Place the cooked kebabs on a platter and serve while still warm.