There’s nothing quite like the satisfying smell of garlic sizzling in the pan, mingling with rich, melted butter. It takes me back to evenings spent at home, gathered around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter and a delicious meal. Today, I’m thrilled to share my twist on a classic—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. This dish isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a reminder that home-cooked comfort can be both easy and impressive.
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of takeout or uninspired weeknight dinners, trust me; these skewers will shake things up. With juicy chicken tenders marinated in a delightful mixture of garlic, parmesan, and spices, dinner becomes the tasty highlight of the day. Plus, they can be on your table in just 25 minutes! So let’s head to the kitchen and whip up these flavorful skewers that are sure to become a favorite for your family and friends.
Why love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Irresistible Aroma: The moment you start cooking, the smell of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in.
Quick Preparation: With a cook time of just 20-25 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and parmesan, along with a touch of heat, transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering dish that impresses at any gathering.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a dinner party or a casual family meal, these skewers are guaranteed to win over both adults and kids alike.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies to the skewers, making them not only versatile but also a colorful addition to your plate!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 2 lbs chicken tenders – You can also use thighs or breast for more juiciness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – This helps keep the chicken tender and adds a nice flavor.
• 1 stick butter – Essential for the rich, buttery sauce that drizzles over the skewers.
• 8-10 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with that irresistible aroma.
For the Seasoning
• 1/2 cup parmesan, grated – Freshly grated parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
• 1 tbsp hot sauce – A splash of heat balances the rich flavors beautifully.
• 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes – Add more or less depending on your heat preference.
• 2 teaspoons paprika – This gives a warm color and subtle sweetness to the skewers.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Extra flavor in case you want a garlic boost!
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory depth of the seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Freshly cracked pepper brightens the dish.
For the Garnish
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced – Provides a fresh burst of flavor and color to your finished dish.
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to create lasting memories at the dinner table. Enjoy crafting your next family favorite!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
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Preheat: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for cooking those delicious chicken skewers.
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Mix Seasoning: In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning blend will beautifully coat the chicken for optimum flavor.
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Coat Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken tenders, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly across them, ensuring they’re well-coated for maximum taste.
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Bake Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken skewers onto a baking sheet and let them bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
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Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the stick of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden.
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Combine Flavors: Stir in the grated parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and minced parsley until everything is well mixed and the sauce is perfectly cohesive.
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Drizzle: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, drizzle the flavorful garlic parmesan butter sauce over them before serving to elevate their taste even more.
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Choose Quality Chicken: Ensure you select fresh chicken tenders for the best texture and flavor. Frozen chicken may lead to dryness when cooked.
Don’t Rush the Baking: Stick to the advised cook time of 20-25 minutes. Overcooking can make the chicken tough, while undercooking poses a safety risk.
Even Coating: Make sure the seasoning mixture evenly coats the chicken. This enhances the flavor throughout each bite of your garlic parmesan chicken skewers.
Watch the Sauce: When preparing the garlic butter sauce, avoid burning the garlic. Sauté until just golden to maintain a rich flavor without bitterness.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the parsley garnish! It adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Room Temperature: Enjoy your garlic parmesan chicken skewers fresh out of the oven for the best taste. If needed, they can be left out for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the juicy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through before serving.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter and parmesan with olive oil and nutritional yeast for a flavorful alternative.
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Veggie-Packed: Add colorful bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the skewers for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
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Spicy Kick: Include sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the marinade for a fiery twist that heat lovers will adore.
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Citrus Zing: Marinade chicken in lemon juice or lime juice before seasoning for a refreshing citrus flair that balances the richness beautifully.
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary, to add complexity and complement the garlic.
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Breadcrumb Crunch: Toss in some panko breadcrumbs with the parmesan for an added crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
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Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a touch of honey over the skewers before baking for an unexpected sweet contrast to the garlic and spices.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deliciously smoky undertone that enhances every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy an impressive dinner with minimal last-minute effort! You can marinate the chicken tenders in olive oil and your seasoning mixture up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavors and keeps the meat juicy. Additionally, the garlic parmesan butter sauce can be prepared a day ahead; simply refrigerate it after combining. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the chicken skewers as instructed for an effortless meal. Drizzle with the warmed sauce before enjoying, and you’ll find that everything tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
The perfect meal deserves equally delightful companions that enhance every bite and create a memorable dining experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth, buttery texture is an ideal match for the flavorful chicken, soaking up all that garlic parmesan goodness.
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Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with a bit of olive oil and your favorite herbs, these add a satisfying crunch and vibrant colors to your plate.
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Garlic Bread: A classic side that not only echoes the garlic theme but also offers a crispy, buttery comfort that pairs beautifully with chicken.
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Garden Salad: A fresh medley of greens and veggies provides a refreshing contrast to the savory skewers, balancing richness with lightness.
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side brings a delightful texture and adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Wine Pairing: Consider a chilled Sauvignon Blanc. Its crisp acidity perfectly complements the rich butter and parmesan while refreshing your palate.
With these delightful pairings, you’ll create a meal that’s not just satisfying but also bursting with flavor and heartwarming charm!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for the skewers?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh chicken tenders, thighs, or breasts. When selecting, look for firm, pink meat without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken will result in juicier, tastier skewers compared to frozen chicken, which may dry out during cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftover skewers?
Great question! Once you’ve enjoyed your garlic parmesan chicken skewers, let them cool down. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating them gently in the oven helps retain their juicy texture—just for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick!
Can I freeze garlic parmesan chicken skewers?
Absolutely! For freezing, arrange the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake from frozen for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
Oh no, dry chicken is a bummer! To avoid this, make sure to follow the cooking time of 20-25 minutes closely. If you’re concerned about dryness, marinating your chicken tenders in olive oil, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking can help infuse moisture. Also, always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfect tenderness.
Are these skewers safe for kids or individuals with allergies?
Very much so! These garlic parmesan chicken skewers generally feature kid-friendly flavors. However, make sure to adjust the spiciness to your preference, particularly if you’re concerned about heat for younger diners. Additionally, always verify that all ingredients are safe for any specific allergies. If someone in your family is sensitive to dairy, consider using a dairy-free alternative for the parmesan.
Savor Every Bite of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for cooking those delicious chicken skewers.
- Mix Seasoning: In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning blend will beautifully coat the chicken for optimum flavor.
- Coat Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken tenders, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly across them, ensuring they’re well-coated for maximum taste.
- Bake Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken skewers onto a baking sheet and let them bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the stick of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Combine Flavors: Stir in the grated parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and minced parsley until everything is well mixed and the sauce is perfectly cohesive.
- Drizzle: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, drizzle the flavorful garlic parmesan butter sauce over them before serving to elevate their taste even more.