Description

Elevate your grilling game with these Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers, a perfect blend of bold, savory flavors and tender, juicy chicken. Marinated in a mixture of Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, garlic, and paprika, these skewers deliver a delightful Mediterranean-inspired taste with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these skewers are versatile and guaranteed to impress. Pair them with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a refreshing salad for a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

• For the Marinade:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Skewers:
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (or chicken thighs for juicier skewers)
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (to prevent burning)
• Optional Garnishes and Accompaniments:
• Additional grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil
• Marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping

Preparation Method

Prepare the Marinade:
Combine olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the flavors blend together, creating a robust marinade that will infuse the chicken with rich Italian-inspired flavors.

Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken until each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper, more pronounced flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours.

Preheat the Grill:
Approximately 10 minutes before cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and creates those beautiful grill marks that enhance both flavor and presentation.

Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to promote even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skewers, as this can lead to uneven grilling.

Grill the Skewers:
Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once halfway through. Look for a golden-brown color with visible grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Rest and Serve:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy chicken. Serve the skewers warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes for a complete meal.

Tips and Conclusion

For extra zest, add a splash of lemon juice to the marinade.

Include vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini on the skewers for added flavor and color.

If you prefer an oven option, bake the skewers at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make it keto-friendly by serving with a low-carb dipping sauce or over a bed of cauliflower rice.

Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to bring bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table. Perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, these skewers are versatile enough to be a main dish, appetizer, or addition to a fresh salad. Try this recipe for your next gathering or family dinner, and explore more delicious grilling ideas on our site to keep the flavors coming!