These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavor-packed, juicy, and crispy delight that will elevate your next dinner or backyard cookout. Tender chunks of marinated chicken are grilled or baked to perfection, then coated in a buttery garlic parmesan glaze that’s bursting with rich, savory goodness. Each bite delivers the perfect blend of juicy meat, garlic aroma, and cheesy coating that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, party snack, or main dish with sides, these chicken skewers are incredibly versatile. They’re easy to prepare, cook quickly, and taste like something straight off a restaurant grill — golden on the outside, tender and flavorful inside, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
You’ll love this recipe for its balance of simplicity and bold flavor. The chicken is marinated in olive oil, garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese for a deep, savory taste that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. The buttery garlic parmesan glaze takes them to the next level, adding richness and a glossy finish.
These skewers are perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or summer grilling. Plus, they’re oven- and air-fryer-friendly, so you can enjoy them all year round.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
These skewers transform everyday chicken into something truly special. The garlic butter and parmesan combination gives them an irresistible umami flavor, while the skewers make them fun to eat and perfect for sharing. They’re also protein-packed, kid-approved, and can be served with a variety of sides — from pasta to salad to rice.
It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both elegant and comforting, making it a staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 20 minutes before grilling)
For the Garlic Butter Parmesan Glaze
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese. Add the chicken cubes and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Preheat the Grill or Oven
If grilling, preheat to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C). If baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
3. Thread the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers
Grill Method: Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Oven Method: Bake skewers for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Make the Garlic Butter Parmesan Glaze
While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes.
6. Coat the Skewers
Once the chicken is done, brush or toss the skewers with the warm garlic butter parmesan glaze until evenly coated.
7. Serve and Garnish
Arrange the skewers on a platter and sprinkle with extra parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges or dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli.
10 Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and juiciness.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor — up to 4 hours if possible.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning.
- Preheat the grill or oven before cooking for perfect sear and caramelization.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers — leave space for even cooking.
- Use freshly grated parmesan — it melts and coats better than pre-shredded.
- Add a touch of lemon juice to the butter glaze for brightness.
- Baste with extra garlic butter during grilling for maximum flavor.
- For crispy texture, broil the skewers for 1–2 minutes before serving.
- Serve immediately — they taste best hot and freshly coated in sauce.
10 Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
- Herb-Loaded Version: Add thyme, rosemary, or basil for extra fragrance.
- Bacon-Wrapped Skewers: Wrap each piece of chicken with a small strip of bacon before cooking.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix mozzarella into the butter glaze for gooey coating.
- Creamy Garlic Style: Toss cooked skewers in Alfredo sauce for a pasta pairing.
- Lemon Pepper Twist: Add lemon zest and extra black pepper for brightness.
- Honey Garlic Variation: Add 1 tablespoon honey to the butter glaze for sweet-savory balance.
- Keto-Friendly Option: Skip breadcrumbs or flour — this recipe is naturally low-carb.
- Vegetable Skewers: Alternate chicken pieces with bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
- Air Fryer Parmesan Bites: Skip the skewers and air-fry chicken chunks for snackable bites.
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (Step-by-Step)
- Start with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens.
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
- Add garlic bread or cheesy rolls to soak up the sauce.
- Offer pasta tossed in light olive oil or garlic cream sauce as a hearty side.
- Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade.
- Finish with a light dessert like lemon bars or vanilla pudding for balance.
Storage & Reheating Tips (Step-by-Step)
To Store
Cool the skewers completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to four days.
To Freeze
Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to two months.
To Reheat (From Refrigerator)
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5 minutes at 380°F (195°C).
To Reheat (From Frozen)
Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as above until hot and sizzling.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I bake these instead of grilling? Yes, bake at 425°F for 20 minutes.
- Can I use pre-grated parmesan? Freshly grated works best for texture and flavor.
- Can I use chicken thighs? Absolutely, they stay juicy and tender.
- How long should I marinate? At least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Can I air fry them? Yes, 390°F for about 12 minutes.
- Can I use garlic butter spread instead of fresh butter? Fresh butter gives a richer flavor.
- What dipping sauce pairs best? Ranch, garlic aioli, or Caesar dressing.
- Can I make them spicy? Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.
- How do I prevent them from drying out? Don’t overcook — check internal temp (165°F).
- Can I add vegetables? Yes, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini grill beautifully.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Thaw completely before marinating.
- Can I make them ahead? Yes, marinate overnight and grill the next day.
- Can I cook them indoors? Yes, use a grill pan or bake in the oven.
- What kind of parmesan works best? Shaved or freshly grated aged parmesan.
- How long do leftovers last? Up to four days in the fridge.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, just cook in batches.
- Can I serve them cold? They’re best warm, but can be used in wraps or salads cold.
- Can I freeze them raw? Yes, freeze marinated chicken and thaw before cooking.
- Can I use pork or shrimp instead of chicken? Yes, both adapt well to the marinade.
- Can I make them dairy-free? Use vegan butter and omit the cheese.