Introduction
If you’re craving a simple yet bold-flavored grilled chicken recipe, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Juicy chicken chunks are coated in a buttery garlic-Parmesan marinade, threaded onto skewers, and grilled to perfection.
Unlike many grilled chicken recipes that risk drying out, this method ensures the chicken stays tender, juicy, and bursting with garlicky, cheesy flavor. Whether you’re planning a family BBQ, a summer cookout, or a quick weekday dinner, these skewers are easy, satisfying, and perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1½ lbs (cut into 1½-inch chunks) |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (freshly grated) |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup (melted) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (minced) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons (chopped, optional for garnish) |
| Skewers | Wooden (soaked) or metal |
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein option. For extra juiciness, you can substitute with chicken thighs.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-shredded or canned Parmesan for this recipe.
- Butter & Olive Oil – The combination keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. You can use only butter for a richer taste or only olive oil for a lighter version.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic is essential. For convenience, you can use garlic paste, but avoid garlic powder as it lacks the boldness of fresh garlic.
- Italian Seasoning – Use a blend of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. You can substitute with herbes de Provence or individual dried herbs if desired.
- Paprika – Adds a mild smoky note. Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor or cayenne for heat.
- Parsley – Optional, but adds a fresh finish. Try cilantro or basil for a twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1½-inch cubes. Keeping the pieces uniform helps them cook evenly.
- Pat the chicken dry using paper towels to ensure the marinade sticks well.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Mix until the marinade forms a thick, cheesy, buttery coating.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade bowl.
- Toss until each piece is completely coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 20–30 minutes (up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Step 4: Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
- Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 204°C).
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until nicely charred.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3–5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for a final cheesy touch.
🔍 Pro Tips to Master
- Don’t skip the rest time! Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese won’t stick well.
- Marinate longer for more flavor—even overnight if you have time.
- Keep the grill hot but not flaming—this creates beautiful grill marks without burning.
- Add veggies to the skewers like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful, balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These skewers are versatile and pair well with multiple sides. Here are some ideas:
| Low-Carb & Keto Sides | Traditional Sides |
| Cauliflower rice | Baked sweet potato fries |
| Grilled asparagus | Mac and cheese |
| Zoodles (zucchini noodles) | Garlic butter rice |
| Cucumber & tomato salad | Corn on the cob |
Dipping Sauce Ideas:
- Garlic aioli
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy yogurt dip
- Lemon butter sauce
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will make the skewers even juicier but will add slightly more fat.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With almost no carbs, it’s perfect for low-carb or keto diets.
Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake in a 400°F (204°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then grill when ready.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano. Avoid the powdery canned versions.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 servings) |
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 2g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Net Carbs | 2g |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on brands and ingredients used.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storage:
| Method | How Long |
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months |
Reheating:
- Oven: Warm at 300°F (149°C) for 10 minutes.
- Skillet: Reheat gently over medium heat with a splash of broth or butter.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts to avoid drying out, though this method is less recommended.
✨ Final Thoughts
These Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the ultimate easy grilled dinner—bold, buttery, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using an indoor grill pan, this recipe offers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Perfect for summer BBQs, keto meal plans, or family dinners, this recipe is flexible, fast, and sure to become a household favorite. Plus, the leftovers make excellent wraps, salads, or meal-prep lunches.
