Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for Flavor-Packed Grilling Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs; 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1 cup Ranch Dressing (Homemade ranch can be substituted.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced garlic or garlic powder can be used.); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast works well for a non-dairy version.); 4 each Wooden or Metal Skewers (Soak wooden skewers if using.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the grill sizzles to life, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. That’s the magic of food—it always transports us to moments of joy and laughter. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, a recipe that’s not only simple to prepare but also perfect for any gathering. These skewers transform tender chicken into a flavorful feast, thanks to the rich combination of creamy ranch dressing, aromatic garlic, and nutty parmesan that clings to every bite. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next BBQ, these skewers are incredibly versatile and totally customizable. What twists do you think you’ll add to make them your own?

Why Will You Love These Skewers?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, these skewers make cooking a breeze, leaving more time for enjoyment.

Flavor explosion: The tangy ranch dressing, savory garlic, and rich parmesan create a mouthwatering taste experience that will impress anyone around the grill.

Versatile for all occasions: Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or meal prep, you can easily customize them with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Quick cooking: Grill these skewers in just 10-15 minutes, making it an ideal option for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves the interactive fun of skewers, plus they are easy to serve alongside tasty dipping sauces like extra ranch or a spicy aioli. Don’t forget to try these alongside my Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges for a complete meal!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Ingredients

A delightful array of flavors awaits you!

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Use thighs for juicier skewers, or breasts for a leaner option.

For the Marinade
• Ranch Dressing – This creamy marinade enhances flavor and moisture; feel free to substitute with homemade ranch for a personal touch.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic amps up the savory goodness; garlic powder is a handy substitute when you’re in a pinch.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – This adds a sharp, cheesy flavor; nutritional yeast works well for a non-dairy version.

For the Skewers
• Wooden or Metal Skewers – Choose soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning or sturdy metal ones for easy reuse.

Consider adding fresh herbs or spices to elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers even further!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to prevent burning on the grill. Meanwhile, if you’re using metal skewers, ensure they are clean and ready for assembly. Having your skewers prepped sets you up for an easy assembly process.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken pieces with ranch dressing, minced garlic, and grated parmesan. Mix everything thoroughly until each piece of chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Allow this to marinate for at least 30 minutes, giving the flavors time to infuse into the chicken while you aspire your grilling skills.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers
After marination, it’s time to thread the chicken onto your prepared skewers. Take a skewer and slide on the pieces of chicken, leaving slight spaces between each piece to ensure they cook evenly. Continue this process until all your chicken is used, creating a colorful display of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers ready for grilling.

Step 4: Preheat Grill
While you’re assembling the skewers, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375–400°F (190–200°C). This temperature ensures a nice sear on your skewers, enhancing the flavors from the marinade. Make sure your grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill Skewers
Once the grill is hot, lay your assembled Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers gently on the grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally. You’ll know they are done when the chicken is cooked through and shows lovely grill marks, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve
After grilling, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken. Serve your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers warm, perhaps with a side of fresh vegetables or a creamy dipping sauce to complement the rich flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain their moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken skewers on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, grill the frozen skewers directly from the freezer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, thaw in the fridge before grilling for quicker reheating.

Make-Ahead: Assemble and marinate the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in advance, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling for easy prep on busy days.

Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Marination Magic: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but a few hours is even better!
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid placing too much chicken on each skewer to ensure even cooking and browning of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
Watch the Heat: Keep your grill at medium-high to prevent the skewers from burning. Too high of heat cooks the outside too quickly before the inside is done.
Rest Before Serving: Let your skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
Customize with Veggies: Consider adding colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions to your skewers along with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the ranch dressing and garlic for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving time when you’re ready to grill. Additionally, you can assemble and thread the skewers in advance, keeping them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, simply preheat your grill and grill the skewers directly from the refrigerator to ensure they stay juicy and tender. This way, you’ll enjoy flavorful chicken skewers that are just as delicious with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!

What to Serve with Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

As you delight in the savory aroma of grilled chicken, consider pairing it with sides that harmoniously elevate your meal.

Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Perfectly caramelized veggies add a colorful touch while enhancing flavors with their natural sweetness; think zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm skewers, making each bite even more satisfying.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks not only soak up extra ranch dressing but also complement the garlicky notes of the chicken skewers.
Classic Potato Salad: Rich and creamy, potato salad brings a delightfully comforting element to your meal, balancing the richness of the garlic parmesan flavors.
Light Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette ensures a healthy contrast, enhancing the meal’s vibrancy in both taste and texture.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn cobs harmonize beautifully with the skewers, providing a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness with every bite.
Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty tang and effervescence of sparkling lemonade offer a perfect refreshment, cleansing your palate between flavorful bites.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings a sweet finish to your meal with its juicy freshness, a wonderfully light and refreshing dessert option.
Homemade Ranch Dip: For a creamy enhancement, serve an extra bowl of ranch dip on the side, allowing a flavor match that everyone will love.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Variations

Feel free to explore these rich twists that transform your chicken skewers into a personal favorite!

Veggie-Packed: Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to your skewers for additional crunch and nutrition. They’ll soak up the delightful marinade too!
Tropical Twist: Incorporate juicy pineapple chunks between the chicken pieces for a sweet contrast. The caramelized edges from grilling will enhance the tropical flavor!
Shrimp Alternative: Swap out chicken for tender shrimp for a seafood version. Just make sure to reduce the grilling time, as shrimp cooks faster!
Tofu Substitute: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu! Marinate the tofu in the same ranch mixture for a fantastic infusion of flavors.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into your marinade for an aromatic punch. It brings a garden-fresh taste to every bite!
Extra Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. This little adjustment can transform the entire flavor profile!
Double Cheese: Consider a sprinkle of mozzarella on top of the skewers in the last few minutes of grilling. Melted cheese adds an irresistible gooeyness to the skewers!
Balsamic Glaze: After grilling, drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish. This elevates the flavors and adds a touch of sophistication!

Pair your skewers with a side of Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges or enjoy them alongside Garlic Parmesan Deviled Eggs for a complete meal that’s full of flavor and joy!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for these skewers?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are ideal for these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts provide a leaner option. The choice really depends on your preference for tenderness versus leanness.

How should I store leftover skewers?
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the chicken stays moist and retains its delightful flavor. Just make sure they’ve cooled to room temperature before sealing them up!

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Certainly! To freeze your skewers, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag where they will keep for up to 3 months. For easy reheating, grill them directly from frozen over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.

What if my chicken is dry after grilling?
Very! If your chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C). If you find your chicken is going to be on the dry side, consider marinating it longer next time or adding a little more ranch dressing to keep it moist.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, definitely! For gluten-free diets, ensure your ranch dressing is gluten-free. If you have dairy allergies, you can replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast for a non-dairy alternative. Always check labels for any hidden allergens in your ingredients to ensure safety for everyone.

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Of course! The more the merrier! Skewers are extremely versatile, so feel free to thread on bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or even pineapple chunks between the chicken pieces for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.