Introduction
There’s something irresistible about food on a stick. From smoky kebabs to sweet dessert skewers, the combination of charred edges, juicy bites, and fun presentation makes skewered food a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Now, imagine tender chunks of chicken marinated in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon pepper, grilled to golden perfection, and finished with a luxurious brush of garlicky, buttery Parmesan sauce. That’s exactly what you get with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
This recipe isn’t just about throwing some chicken on the grill—it’s about creating layers of flavor. The marinade ensures every piece of chicken is juicy and seasoned to the core. The grill adds smoky depth. And finally, the garlic Parmesan butter takes the skewers to restaurant-level deliciousness with its rich, aromatic finish.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a casual family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, these chicken skewers are the perfect choice. They’re quick to assemble, versatile in flavor, and pair well with almost anything—from salads and rice to grilled vegetables or even pasta.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1–1½ lb chicken breasts or thighs (cubed into equal chunks)
Chicken breasts give a lean, firm bite, while thighs stay juicier and more forgiving on the grill. - 3 Tbsp olive oil
Acts as the base for the marinade, keeping the chicken moist and helping the spices stick. - 1 tsp paprika
Adds subtle smokiness and color. - 1 tsp garlic powder & 1 tsp onion powder
These seasonings create a well-rounded base flavor that enhances the marinade. - 1–2 tsp lemon pepper (no salt added)
A zesty, citrusy kick that balances the richness of the garlic butter later. - ½ tsp salt
A must to bring all the flavors together.
For the Garlic Parmesan Butter
- 4–6 Tbsp butter
Creates the rich, glossy base for basting and finishing. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Fragrant, bold, and the star of the butter. - ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Nutty, salty, and melts beautifully into the butter. - 2 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness. - 3 Tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Fresh herbs cut through the richness and add vibrant color. - 1 small lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)
Makes the skewers look as good as they taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Cube the chicken into even-sized pieces (about 1 to 1.5 inches). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, and salt. Add a splash of lemon juice for freshness if desired.
- Toss the chicken thoroughly until each piece is coated in the marinade.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
Tip: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and juicy it will be once grilled.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Butter
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and let it gently simmer for 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be fragrant and golden, not brown.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and optional lemon juice.
- Keep this mixture warm; you’ll use it for basting and finishing.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. - Lay the skewers flat on a baking sheet while you preheat the grill.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
- Preheat your grill to 400°F (medium-high heat).
- Place the skewers directly on the grates. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even browning.
- In the final minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with the garlic Parmesan butter. This helps the flavors seep into the meat while creating a gorgeous golden finish.
- Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove from the grill.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes on a baking sheet.
- Brush with any remaining garlic Parmesan butter for extra flavor.
- Garnish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure juicy, tender bites every time.
- Balance your butter. If your Parmesan is very salty, reduce the added salt in the marinade.
- Char for flavor. A little char on the edges adds irresistible smokiness.
- Use thighs if you’re grilling for a crowd. They’re more forgiving than breasts and stay juicy longer.
- Make it ahead. You can marinate the chicken in the morning and grill it in the evening—it only gets better.
Variations
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Skewers: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for a fiery kick.
- Herb Lover’s Version: Swap parsley for basil, rosemary, or thyme for a different herbal note.
- Asian Fusion: Add a splash of soy sauce to the marinade and swap Parmesan for sesame seeds in the butter sauce.
- Oven-Baked Option: No grill? Bake the skewers at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, brushing with butter halfway through.
- Vegetable Skewers: Thread zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms alongside the chicken for a colorful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are versatile and pair beautifully with many dishes:
- Rice or Quinoa Pilaf – balances the richness of the butter.
- Fresh Green Salad – adds crunch and freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables – think asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pasta – toss plain spaghetti or linguine with olive oil and Parmesan as a simple side.
- Flatbread or Garlic Bread – to soak up extra garlic butter.
For drinks, pair with a crisp lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water with a lemon wedge.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze grilled skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Reheating Tip: Brush with extra melted butter to revive flavor and juiciness.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are even juicier and perfect for grilling.
2. How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
3. Can I bake instead of grill?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
4. Is fresh garlic better than garlic powder here?
Both have their place—powder seasons the marinade evenly, while fresh garlic shines in the butter.
5. Can I prepare the butter sauce ahead?
Yes, just reheat gently before brushing it on the chicken.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are more than just a grilled recipe—they’re a flavor-packed experience. The smoky, juicy chicken paired with the richness of garlic butter and the nuttiness of Parmesan makes every bite unforgettable. They’re simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
So fire up the grill, grab your skewers, and get ready to savor a dish that’s destined to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.