Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

When I made these Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, the smell of garlic and cheese sizzling on the grill made everyone hungry fast.
Each skewer came out golden, juicy, and coated in buttery parmesan goodness.
I remember brushing on that last layer of sauce—it made them shine and taste amazing.

These skewers are savory, tender, and full of flavor in every bite.
They’re perfect for cookouts, parties, or easy weeknight dinners.

Let’s grill them up together—you’ll love how simple and mouthwatering they are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in 35 minutes from start to finish.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and butter creates a rich, savory coating.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, backyard gatherings, or meal prep.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these tender, cheesy chicken bites.
• Versatile Cooking: Make them on the grill, in the oven, or on the stovetop.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: This recipe makes 8 skewers, serving 4-6 people as a main dish. Double the recipe for larger crowds or parties.

Difficulty: Easy for beginners and perfect for experienced cooks looking for a quick meal.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Basting brush
• Grill, baking sheet, or large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

These skewers come together with simple ingredients that pack big flavor. The buttery garlic sauce and parmesan cheese create a golden coating that keeps the chicken moist and delicious.

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (or 1.5 tablespoons pre-minced)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Add Vegetables: Thread bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes between chicken pieces for extra color and nutrition.
• Use Different Cheese: Try Asiago or Pecorino Romano instead of parmesan for a different flavor.
• Make It Spicier: Double the red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Version: Add 2 tablespoons honey to the sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
• Lemon Garlic: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished skewers for brightness.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken into even 1.5-inch cubes. Place them in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated with the seasoning.

2. Thread the Skewers

Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them first to prevent burning.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the cheese melts into the butter.

4. Cook the Skewers

Grilling Method:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Oil the grates.
2. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
3. Brush with garlic parmesan sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Arrange skewers on the sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Brush with sauce and return to oven for 2 more minutes.

Stovetop Method:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil.
2. Cook skewers in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Brush with sauce before removing from heat.

5. Finish and Serve

Once cooked, generously brush all skewers with the remaining garlic parmesan sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

These versatile skewers pair beautifully with many sides and dishes:

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice, garlic butter rice, or cauliflower rice.
• With Pasta: Place skewers alongside buttered noodles or creamy fettuccine.
• With Salads: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad, garden salad, or Greek salad.
• With Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, green beans, or grilled asparagus.
• As Appetizers: Cut into smaller pieces and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• In Wraps: Remove chicken from skewers and wrap in warm tortillas with lettuce and tomatoes.

Decoration Tips: Arrange skewers on a platter and garnish with extra parmesan, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges. For parties, serve on a bed of fresh greens for a restaurant-style presentation.

Storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Refrigerator Storage: Remove chicken from skewers and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep any extra sauce in a separate container.

Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce) in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter to prevent drying out.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Even Cooking: Cut all chicken pieces the same size so they cook evenly.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F. Overcooked chicken becomes dry.
• Fresh Garlic is Best: Fresh garlic gives better flavor than garlic powder in the sauce.
• Baste Generously: The more sauce you brush on, the more flavor you get.
• Let It Rest: Allow skewers to rest for 3 minutes after cooking so juices redistribute.
• Make Ahead: Season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Thread onto skewers just before cooking.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers FAQs

Conclusion

These Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers bring together tender chicken, rich butter, savory garlic, and nutty parmesan cheese in one easy recipe. Whether you grill them for summer cookouts, bake them for busy weeknights, or cook them on the stovetop for a quick dinner, these skewers deliver big flavor every time. The combination of simple seasonings and a luscious garlic parmesan sauce makes this dish a family favorite that you will return to again and again.