Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional); 4 tbsp butter, melted; ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Chicken skewers have always been a go-to for me, especially when I want something flavorful, fast, and fun to eat. But these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers? They take things to a whole new level. Juicy grilled chicken kissed with a golden sear, smothered in a garlicky butter sauce, and finished with a shower of grated parmesan and herbs—honestly, they’re as irresistible as they sound. I’ve made these for quick weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, and even meal prep lunches, and they never disappoint.

What I love most about this dish is how it blends simplicity with flavor-packed results. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are straightforward, but the outcome tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. The garlic butter parmesan glaze clings to each piece of chicken, giving it a savory richness with just enough kick from chili flakes and fresh herbs. Whether served with rice, salad, or straight off the skewer, these are a crowd favorite every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

These skewers are more than just grilled chicken. They’re a punch of bold garlic flavor, creamy parmesan, and fresh herbs in every bite. The texture is spot-on too—crispy edges from the grill and tender, juicy chicken inside. Plus:

Ready in under 30 minutes
Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor
Perfect for low-carb or keto diets
Great for meal prep or party platters
Pairs well with many sides (or just enjoy them solo!)

If you’re looking for something easy yet mouthwateringly satisfying, this is it.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

For this recipe, I always reach for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’re naturally more flavorful and juicy than chicken breast, making them ideal for grilling or broiling. The higher fat content keeps the meat tender even after it’s been seared on high heat.

That said, if you prefer something leaner, chicken breasts will work just fine—just be careful not to overcook them. I recommend marinating them a bit longer and brushing with extra sauce to lock in that moisture. Whether thighs or breasts, make sure to cut the chicken into even-sized chunks so everything cooks evenly on the skewers.

Options for Substitutions

One of the great things about these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is how easy they are to customize. Here are some swap suggestions if you’re short on ingredients or catering to different dietary needs:

Chicken alternatives: Try shrimp, turkey breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian option (just press it well and go easy on the grilling time).
Dairy-free: Use a plant-based butter and a vegan parmesan substitute. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be rich and delicious.
Low-sodium: Opt for unsalted butter and go light on the parmesan—add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Herb options: If you’re out of parsley, basil, oregano, or thyme work beautifully too.
Spice it up: Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the marinade for extra heat.

These swaps still give you that garlicky, herby vibe while letting you work with what’s in your pantry or meet your dietary needs.

Ingredients for This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose—bringing together bold flavor, juicy texture, and that crave-worthy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – The star of the show. They’re tender, juicy, and soak up flavor beautifully.
Garlic (freshly minced) – This is the backbone of the recipe, delivering bold, aromatic depth.
Butter – Melted and rich, it carries the garlic flavor and helps the parmesan stick to the chicken.
Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the marinade penetrate the meat while preventing sticking.
Parmesan cheese (grated) – Salty, nutty, and cheesy—this adds the signature finish to each skewer.
Fresh parsley – A bright, herbaceous lift that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
Red pepper flakes – A subtle touch of heat to give the skewers a little zing without overpowering.
Salt and black pepper – For essential seasoning. Keeps everything balanced and flavorful.
Lemon juice – Optional, but adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter.

These simple ingredients come together in a big way—each bite is juicy, flavorful, and layered with textures and taste.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into evenly sized chunks—about 1.5-inch pieces. This helps them cook evenly and gives you that perfect skewer bite every time.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice if using. Add the chicken pieces and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers (or metal ones), leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Preheat and Cook

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan. Place the skewers on and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter

While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes, and stir until fragrant—about 1 minute. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated parmesan.

Step 6: Brush and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, brush the garlic parmesan butter generously over the skewers while still hot. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the aroma take over your kitchen.

How Long to Cook the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

These skewers cook quickly thanks to the small, uniform pieces of chicken. On a preheated grill or grill pan:

Grill time: About 8–10 minutes total, flipping halfway through.
Internal temperature: Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest point.
Oven option: If broiling, cook on high for about 10–12 minutes, turning once and watching closely to prevent burning.

Keep an eye on them—overcooked chicken dries out fast, and you want that juicy, tender bite!

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Cut chicken evenly to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate—no dry edges or raw centers.
Marinate longer if you have the time. Two hours in the fridge gives deeper flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers—a little space between pieces ensures a good sear.
Brush the garlic butter after cooking to avoid burning the cheese or herbs.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices redistribute inside the meat.
Use a thermometer if you’re unsure about doneness—it’s the easiest way to avoid overcooking.

With these tips, your skewers will be bursting with flavor, perfectly tender, and grilled to golden perfection.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple recipe like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers can go sideways with a few common missteps. Here’s what to avoid:

Skipping the marinade: Don’t rush it—this step builds the foundation of flavor and moisture.
Overcrowding the pan or grill: Too many skewers at once can steam the chicken instead of searing it.
Using high heat too soon: Let the grill preheat properly. Medium-high heat gives a nice char without burning.
Brushing butter too early: If you add the garlic butter during grilling, the parmesan can burn. Wait until after.
Uneven chicken pieces: Mismatched sizes lead to dry bits and undercooked chunks.
Neglecting to rest the meat: Resting for even a few minutes helps the juices stay locked in.

A little attention to detail makes a big difference in the final result.

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

1. Lemon Herb Rice

Light and zesty, this rice balances the richness of the skewers and soaks up that garlic butter beautifully.

2. Garlic Butter Noodles

A double dose of garlic? Yes, please. Toss some pasta in butter, garlic, and parsley for an easy side.

3. Grilled Veggies

Zucchini, bell peppers, red onion—grill them alongside your skewers for a colorful, healthy pairing.

4. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing make for a classic complement.

5. Roasted Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and perfect for catching extra parmesan drippings.

6. Warm Pita or Flatbread

Serve the skewers with warm bread and turn it into a handheld wrap with some tzatziki.

7. Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn brushed with a little leftover garlic butter is a summertime winner.

8. Creamy Coleslaw

The tangy crunch of coleslaw helps balance the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? You’re in luck—these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers reheat like a dream.

Refrigerate: Store cooled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. If you’ve separated the chicken from the skewers, reheat in a skillet with a touch of olive oil or leftover garlic butter.
Freeze: Yes! Remove the skewers and freeze the chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

The garlic butter keeps the chicken flavorful and moist even after reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion size.

Calories: 390
Protein: 31g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 480mg
Serving Size: Approx. 2 skewers
Diet: Low-carb, gluten-free (if using gluten-free parmesan and butter)
Method: Grilling or broiling
Cuisine: American / Mediterranean fusion

This dish fits well into low-carb, keto, or protein-forward diets while still delivering big comfort-food energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes! Just broil them on high for 10–12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You’ll still get a nice char and juicy texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?

Use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter or oil. Microwaving works too, but add a splash of water and cover to retain moisture.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

You can, but freshly grated parmesan melts better and has a much richer flavor. Pre-grated works in a pinch, though!

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s high in protein and healthy fats, with very low carbs—perfect for keto or low-carb lifestyles.

Can I prep these ahead for a party?

Yes! Marinate the chicken and thread onto skewers the day before. Keep covered in the fridge and grill right before serving. You can also pre-cook and reheat with extra garlic butter for serving.

What if I don’t have skewers?

No worries. Just cook the marinated chicken pieces in a hot skillet or bake them on a sheet pan. Finish with garlic parmesan butter as usual.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Definitely. Use a plant-based butter and a vegan parmesan substitute. The flavor will shift slightly, but it’s still tasty and satisfying.

How spicy is this recipe?

Not very. The red pepper flakes add a touch of warmth, but you can leave them out or add more depending on your heat preference.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are proof that simple ingredients can turn into something incredibly delicious. Whether you’re grilling out, planning meals ahead, or just craving a flavorful dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes: juicy, bold, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying. It’s easy to make, hard to mess up, and even harder to stop eating. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.