Introduction
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering and easy-to-make chicken dish, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a must-try! Perfectly marinated chicken pieces are cooked to juicy perfection, brushed with garlicky butter, and finished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re grilling, air frying, or baking, this dish will satisfy your cravings with its bold flavors and crispy texture. Plus, it’s a great protein-packed meal that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides!
In this article, we will break down everything you need to know to make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers step-by-step, while ensuring your dish is both flavorful and juicy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Three cooking methods: grill, air fryer, or oven
- Packed with flavor from a well-seasoned marinade
- Crispy Parmesan finish adds the perfect touch
- Great for meal prep or gatherings
Ingredients Breakdown
Chicken & Marinade:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs provide a juicier texture, while breasts are leaner.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist.
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon – Adds brightness and tenderizes the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Provides a slightly smoky, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Boosts savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning – A hint of citrus with extra seasoning punch.
Garlic Butter & Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons butter – Gives the skewers a rich, buttery coating.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a delicious aromatic punch.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – The perfect finishing touch for a nutty, cheesy bite.
- Fresh parsley or herb of choice – Optional garnish for color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
A great marinade is the key to juicy, flavorful chicken. Here’s how:
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and lemon pepper seasoning.
- Add the cubed chicken pieces, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (for best results, marinate up to 4 hours).
2. Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring even spacing.
3. Make the Garlic Butter
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Choose Your Cooking Method
Grilling Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
- Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently.
- Brush with garlic butter during grilling for added flavor.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange skewers in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Brush with garlic butter after cooking.
Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place skewers on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once.
- Brush with garlic butter after baking.
5. Finishing Touches & Serving
- Sprinkle hot skewers with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with:
- Garlic Butter Rice
- Grilled Vegetables
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Fresh Garden Salad
- Warm Pita Bread & Tzatziki
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Skewers
- Use fresh garlic for a stronger, more aromatic flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd skewers—leave space between pieces for even cooking.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor infusion.
- Check internal temperature—chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- Brush garlic butter generously to enhance the juiciness and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
4. Can I freeze marinated chicken?
Yes! Freeze the marinated chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before threading onto skewers and cooking.
5. What’s the best way to reheat them?
For crispy results, reheat skewers in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, easy, and versatile dish that you’ll love making over and over again. With juicy marinated chicken, rich garlic butter, and a crispy Parmesan topping, they’re perfect for weeknight meals, BBQs, or even meal prep. Whether grilled, baked, or air-fried, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time. Try them today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Juicy, Flavor-Packed & Easy to Make
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into equal-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning (preferably no-salt-added)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or herb of choice, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and lemon pepper seasoning. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
-
Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
-
Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and simmer for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Cook the Skewers:
- Grilling Method:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
- Place the chicken skewers directly on the grill grates.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Periodically brush the skewers with the garlic butter during grilling.
- Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brush with garlic butter after cooking.
- Oven Method:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Brush with garlic butter after baking.
- Grilling Method:
-
Finish and Serve:
- After cooking, brush the skewers with any remaining garlic butter.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot skewers.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or your preferred herbs, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!