Garlic parmesan chicken skewers always take me back to a warm summer evening in my grandmother’s backyard. I was barely tall enough to reach the grill, but I remember watching her brush melted butter over sizzling chicken, the scent of garlic and lemon dancing in the air.
That moment—it stuck with me.
Now, years later, I’ve turned her simple trick into a recipe that brings the same comfort, joy, and just the right amount of zing.
Whether you’re new to cooking or just craving something bold and buttery, this one’s for you.
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Let me show you how easy and unforgettable these skewers can be.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1-1½ lb chicken breasts cubed, or thighs
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1-2 tsp no salt added lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Garlic Parmesan Butter
- 4-6 Tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup parmesan grated
- 2 tsp lemon juice optional
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped , fresh cilantro will also work.
- 1 small lemon sliced for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add cubed chicken. Try to ensure the chicken is equal size chunks to ensure they cook evenly. Add olive oil, lemon juice and seasonings. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated well. Marinate for 15 minutes to 4 hours covered with plastic in the fridge.
- Once you are ready to cook, skewer the chicken on wooden or metal skewers. Lay them on a flat baking sheet. In a sauce pan, on low, melt the butter down, add the minced garlic and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Set it aside somewhere warm/room temperature.
- Add the skewers to the grill! Preheat the grill on Medium/high to 400°F. Add the skewers directly to the grates and cook for about 8-10 minutes turning often. Add the Parmesan and parsley or other fresh herb of choice to the cooled garlic butter.
- Let the skewers sit on the grill for about 2 minutes on each side, rotating and brushing with the garlic Parmesan butter. Once the chicken is golden and reaches 165ºF internally, take it off the Grill. Let the chicken rest on a baking sheet and brush generously with leftover garlic parmesan butter and a little squeeze of lemon before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 490mg |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
Note: Nutrition values are estimated and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a chef to make them. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, roasting in the oven, or air frying indoors, this recipe is built for real kitchens and real lives.
Check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta if you’re looking for the perfect creamy side to go with these skewers.
Ingredients Breakdown for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Choosing the Right Cut: Chicken Breast vs. Chicken Thigh
To make tender, flavorful garlic parmesan chicken skewers, it all starts with the right cut of chicken. You can go with 1 to 1½ pounds of cubed chicken breasts for a leaner, firmer bite—or boneless, skinless thighs if you’re after juicier texture and rich flavor. Chicken thighs are often favored for grilling or air frying because they stay moist and don’t dry out as easily, especially during high-heat cooking.
Both cuts work beautifully in this recipe, so the choice depends on your texture preference. Just make sure to cube the chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly and absorbs the marinade effectively.
Want more chicken parmesan ideas? Check out Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta for a creamy variation.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
This garlic parmesan chicken skewers recipe is loaded with simple, fresh ingredients that bring bold flavor to every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken & Marinade:
- 1 to 1½ lb chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 3 Tbsp olive oil – helps seal in moisture
- 1 tsp paprika – adds a smoky color and mild kick
- 1 tsp garlic powder – boosts that garlic base flavor
- 1 tsp onion powder – for savory depth
- 1 to 2 tsp no-salt-added lemon pepper seasoning – a zesty, peppery edge
- ½ tsp salt – to season the meat properly
- ¼ cup lemon juice – adds a fresh zing while helping to naturally tenderize the chicken.
Freshly Grated vs. Pre-Grated Parmesan: Flavor Matters
Since parmesan is the highlight of garlic parmesan chicken skewers, using a high-quality cheese makes all the difference. ¼ cup of freshly grated parmesan is ideal for its bold flavor and natural meltability. Pre-grated cheese works in a pinch but often contains fillers that won’t crisp as well.
For best results, use fresh parmesan in the Garlic Parmesan Butter Baste, which gives the skewers that irresistible golden coating. Here’s what you’ll need:
Garlic Parmesan Butter:
- 4 to 6 Tbsp butter – rich and golden
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – savory and aromatic
- ¼ cup parmesan, grated – adds a crusty layer of flavor
- 2 tsp lemon juice (optional) – brightens the finish
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – adds color and freshness
- Fresh cilantro also works if you prefer a more herbaceous note
- 1 small lemon, sliced for garnish (optional) – adds visual flair
From the marinade to the buttery finishing drizzle, every layer of these garlic parmesan chicken skewers is designed to deliver flavor, texture, and balance.
Looking for more garlicky goodness? Don’t miss our Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a creamy, comforting companion.
Preparing Your Skewers – Best Tools and Marinade Techniques
Wooden vs. Metal Skewers: Which One Works Best?
When making garlic parmesan chicken skewers, choosing the right skewer type can make your cooking process smoother. Wooden skewers are easy to use and disposable, making cleanup a breeze. Just make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. On the other hand, metal skewers are durable, reusable, and conduct heat evenly, helping your chicken cook a little faster. If you’re making garlic parmesan chicken skewers frequently—as many of us end up doing once we taste them—metal skewers are worth the investment.
Either way, the goal is the same: stack those juicy chunks of chicken securely and evenly for consistent cooking and max flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Start by prepping your base. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 to 1½ pounds of cubed chicken, ensuring the pieces are cut evenly for consistent cooking. Whether you’re using chicken breasts or thighs, uniform size matters. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, ¼ cup lemon juice, and your spices: 1 teaspoon each of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning, along with ½ teaspoon salt.
Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. This marinade is what infuses your garlic parmesan chicken skewers with bold flavor and zesty undertones. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer it rests, the deeper the flavor.
Once marinated, thread the chicken onto your wooden or metal skewers, spacing the pieces slightly for better airflow while cooking. Place them flat on a baking sheet so they’re easy to transfer to the grill or oven.
Meanwhile, create the magic: the garlic parmesan butter. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 4 to 6 tablespoons of butter, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, and let it gently simmer for 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside in a warm spot.
Now it’s time to bring your garlic parmesan chicken skewers to life. Preheat your grill to 400°F over medium-high heat.
Place the skewers directly on the grates and grill for 8 to 10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. When nearly done, combine ¼ cup of grated parmesan and 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro into your warm garlic butter.
Brush this cheesy herb butter generously over the garlic parmesan chicken skewers while they’re still on the grill. Let them sizzle for about 2 minutes per side, rotating as needed.
The parmesan will start to crisp and the herbs will lightly char, adding layers of texture and depth.
Once the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, remove from the grill and place the skewers back on the baking sheet. Give them a final buttery brush and finish with a fresh lemon wedge squeeze for that perfect tangy finish.
These garlic parmesan chicken skewers come out golden, aromatic, and impossibly juicy—every bite loaded with garlic, butter, and savory parmesan goodness.
Don’t miss our Packed Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl as a bright, zesty side dish that complements this recipe beautifully.
Cooking Methods – Grill, Oven, or Air Fryer?
How to Grill Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Like a Pro
Grilling is hands down one of the best ways to make garlic parmesan chicken skewers. The open flame adds a smoky char that pairs beautifully with the savory garlic and nutty parmesan. Once your grill is preheated to 400°F on medium-high heat, lay your skewers directly on the grates. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to get those even golden grill marks.
As the chicken cooks, brush on your warm garlic parmesan butter generously. This not only helps crisp the edges but also locks in flavor.
You’ll know your garlic parmesan chicken skewers are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is beautifully caramelized. Give them one final butter brush after cooking, and they’re ready to serve.
Oven-Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for Anytime Cooking
If you don’t have a grill or the weather’s not cooperating, don’t worry—you can still enjoy garlic parmesan chicken skewers baked to perfection in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Arrange your skewers in a single layer, and bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Halfway into the cooking time, start brushing on that rich garlic parmesan butter so it bakes into the chicken.
In the final 5 minutes, switch on the broiler to crisp the tops and give your skewers that golden brown finish. Oven-roasting helps maintain moisture while still delivering that signature garlicky-parmesan crust.
Check out Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast for another great oven-based favorite.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Crispy Without the Fuss
Want crispy, flavorful skewers without firing up the grill or oven? The air fryer is your secret weapon. Simply preheat it to 390°F, place your garlic parmesan chicken skewers in a single layer, and cook for 9 to 11 minutes, turning once halfway through.
The convection heat of the air fryer crisps the outside beautifully while keeping the inside juicy. Halfway through cooking, brush with garlic parmesan butter and continue to cook until golden brown and cooked through.
This method is fast, mess-free, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
No need to sacrifice flavor—air fryer garlic parmesan chicken skewers deliver that same rich buttery taste and crisp texture without the extra hassle.
Looking for more fast dinner ideas? Don’t miss our Air Fryer Chicken Breast for another easy protein-packed option.
Step-by-Step Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Creating irresistible garlic parmesan chicken skewers at home is simpler than you might think. With a few fresh ingredients and the right method, you can turn everyday chicken into something golden, buttery, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned kitchen pro, this step-by-step recipe will guide you through the entire process.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cubing 1 to 1½ pounds of chicken breast or thighs into evenly sized pieces. This ensures that every piece on your skewers cooks at the same rate. Toss the cubes into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In the same bowl, add the following:
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1–2 tsp no-salt-added lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
Mix everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Carefully thread the marinated chicken onto pre-soaked wooden or metal skewers, spacing the pieces slightly apart. Then place the prepared garlic parmesan chicken skewers on a baking tray for easy handling and setup
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 4–6 Tbsp of butter. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and let it simmer gently for 2 minutes to release the aroma. Remove from heat and mix in ¼ cup of grated parmesan, 2 tsp lemon juice (optional), and 3 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Set this aside—it’s your basting magic!
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Now for the fun part—cooking!
- Grill method: Preheat to 400°F, place skewers directly on the grill, and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning often.
- Oven method: Bake at 425°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping once. Finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to add a crispy, golden touch.
- Air fryer method: Preheat to 390°F, cook for 9–11 minutes, flipping once halfway.
Halfway through cooking, start brushing the garlic parmesan chicken skewers with your warm garlic butter mixture. Keep brushing and rotating until the chicken turns golden and reaches an internal temp of 165°F.
Step 6: Final Finish and Serve
Once done, remove the skewers and let them rest for a few minutes. Brush one last time with the garlic parmesan butter, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top, and serve hot. These garlic parmesan chicken skewers are tender, cheesy, garlicky, and incredibly satisfying—perfect on their own or paired with a fresh salad or pasta.
Pro Tips for Flavor, Texture, and Serving
Avoid Dry Skewers: Timing and Temp Matter
One of the easiest ways to ruin great garlic parmesan chicken skewers is overcooking. Chicken—especially breast meat—can go from juicy to dry in a flash. The key is temperature and timing.
Always cook until your chicken reaches 165°F internally, but don’t go beyond. Whether grilling, baking, or air frying, keep your eye on the clock and rotate often.Cutting the chicken into evenly sized cubes ensures consistent cooking—so take the time to prep it right.
Rest and Baste for Maximum Flavor
Once your garlic parmesan chicken skewers are done, let them rest for a few minutes—this keeps them juicy and tender. While grilling or roasting, brush the skewers a few times with garlic-parmesan butter.
This not only boosts flavor but also creates a golden, flavorful coating. As it cooks, the parmesan crisps up slightly, adding a tasty crunch and depth of flavor.
To avoid flare-ups on the grill, brush the butter just after flipping rather than right at the start. This lets it caramelize beautifully without burning.
Discover great ideas like Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta to pair with your skewers for a next-level garlic-parmesan combo.
Fresh Finishes That Elevate the Dish
A light squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up and balances the richness of the butter and cheese. For extra color and pop, sprinkle on some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro—it adds herbaceous freshness and looks beautiful on the plate.
Want to add some spice?
A pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter or a quick chili oil drizzle just before serving turns your garlic parmesan chicken skewers into a restaurant-worthy dish with a bold kick.
Serving Suggestions That Impress
These skewers are fantastic on their own, but they also shine when paired with something cool and creamy. Serve them with ranch or garlic aioli for dipping, or lay them over a bed of lemon-herb rice, roasted veggies, or a chilled orzo salad.
They also make great appetizers. Just cut the skewers into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing party tray.
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Side Dishes That Bring Balance and Flavor
When it comes to pairing, garlic parmesan chicken skewers shine with sides that either balance their richness or amplify their flavor. Since the skewers are buttery, garlicky, and full of bold parmesan notes, pairing them with something light, fresh, or creamy brings beautiful contrast.
Try serving them with a lemon herb rice or a simple garlic butter pasta to echo their main flavors. If you’re leaning toward something green, a grilled zucchini salad or chilled cucumber-tomato mix with red onion and a dash of vinegar can add crisp, acidic relief to the richness of the skewers.
A creamy dip also goes a long way. Bold garlic parmesan chicken skewers pair perfectly with dips like garlic aioli, creamy ranch, or a tangy yogurt-based sauce.
Looking for a creamy pairing?Pair your skewers with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for an extra rich and satisfying meal.
Bread and Grains: Filling and Flavorful
Serve garlic parmesan chicken skewers with warm toasted bread or fluffy rolls to soak up every last drop of that savory garlic butter. If you’re planning a larger meal, consider pairing them with buttery mashed potatoes, wild rice, or even quinoa tossed with lemon zest and herbs.
Want something more picnic-style? A cold pasta salad with parmesan vinaigrette adds texture and zing without competing with the main flavors.
Beverage Pairings to Complement the Dish
The rich flavors of garlic and parmesan in these skewers pair wonderfully with drinks that cleanse the palate.
Try a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp sparkling lemonade with fresh mint. For non-alcoholic options, cucumber water or unsweetened iced tea work well to offset the richness.
If you’re going full dinner-party mode, finish with a sweet and simple dessert. Something chocolatey or citrus-based makes a perfect contrast.
Bread and Grains: Filling and Flavorful
Garlic parmesan chicken skewers also go great with toasted bread or soft rolls that can soak up any extra garlic butter. If you’re planning a larger meal, consider pairing them with buttery mashed potatoes, wild rice, or even quinoa tossed with lemon zest and herbs.
Want something more picnic-style? A cold pasta salad with parmesan vinaigrette adds texture and zing without competing with the main flavors.
Don’t miss our Vegan Tomato White Bean Stew for a hearty side dish that adds plant-based balance to your plate.
Beverage Pairings to Complement the Dish
The rich flavors of garlic and parmesan in these skewers pair wonderfully with drinks that cleanse the palate. Try a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp sparkling lemonade with fresh mint. For non-alcoholic options, cucumber water or unsweetened iced tea work well to offset the richness.
If you’re going full dinner-party mode, finish with a sweet and simple dessert. Something chocolatey or citrus-based makes a perfect contrast.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Meal Prep Tips
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Ahead of Time
The beauty of garlic parmesan chicken skewers is that they’re not just delicious—they’re also incredibly convenient for prepping ahead. If you’ve got a busy schedule or you’re planning for a gathering, you can prep the entire recipe the night before. Cube your chicken, toss it in the marinade, and let it soak up all that garlicky, lemony goodness in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The longer the marinade rests (without overdoing it), the more tender and flavorful the meat becomes.
For best results, keep the chicken in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and only skewer the pieces when you’re ready to cook. This prevents the skewers (especially wooden ones) from drying out or becoming brittle in the fridge.
Smart Storage for Leftovers
If you have leftover garlic parmesan chicken skewers, don’t worry—they store and reheat beautifully. Simply remove the chicken from the skewers and transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When reheating, use the oven or air fryer to help retain some of the crisp edges. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can zap the texture. Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 6 to 8 minutes, or until heated all the way through.
Pro tip: Reserve a bit of garlic parmesan butter and reheat it separately. Drizzle it over the warmed skewers before serving for a fresh buttery boost.
Check out Smothered Chicken and Rice if you’re looking for a make-ahead chicken dinner that’s just as rich and comforting.
Meal Prep Ideas Using Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic parmesan chicken skewers are great for make-ahead meals. Pair them with sides like roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or fragrant herb rice for quick lunches or convenient dinners.
Want to make it freezer-friendly? Marinate your chicken, freeze it raw in a zip bag, and thaw it overnight in the fridge when ready to cook. While cooked skewers can be frozen, the texture is better when frozen raw and cooked fresh.
Batch cooking a double portion can save you tons of time—and trust us, these skewers reappear in weeknight meals faster than you’d expect.
Looking for more batch-cook ideas? Don’t miss our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for another prep-friendly meal that’s big on flavor.
QUESTIONS About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Yes, and it’s surprisingly easy! If you don’t have a grill or just want a more hands-off method, the oven is a great alternative. Arrange your garlic parmesan chicken skewers on a lined baking sheet, pop them into a preheated oven at 425°F, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. To finish, a quick broil for 2–3 minutes helps get that golden, cheesy crust we all love.
Can I make them in the air fryer instead of grilling?
Absolutely. In fact, the air fryer might just be your new favorite way to make these. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F, place the garlic parmesan chicken skewers in a single layer (don’t overcrowd), and cook for 10 minutes, flipping once. The convection heat crisps up the edges while keeping the chicken juicy. Bonus: less cleanup and no need to babysit the grill.
What kind of chicken should I use—breast or thigh?
Honestly, it depends on your preference. If you like lean and firm, go with chicken breast. If you’re all about tenderness and richer flavor, chicken thigh is your winner. Both absorb the garlic parmesan marinade beautifully and hold up well on skewers. Just make sure to cut the chicken into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.
What kind of skewers should I use (wooden or metal)?
Both work, but they serve different purposes. Wooden skewers are perfect if you’re serving a crowd and want something disposable—just soak them in water for 30 minutes so they don’t burn. Metal skewers are reusable, heat-conducting, and great if you make garlic parmesan chicken skewers often (which you probably will after the first bite!).
How do I know when the chicken skewers are done?
Forget guesswork—just use a meat thermometer. Your garlic parmesan chicken skewers are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll also notice the parmesan forming a golden crust, and the chicken juices running clear. A little resting time (2–3 minutes) after cooking makes them even juicier.
What kind of Parmesan should I use—freshly grated or pre‑grated?
Freshly grated all the way. It melts smoother, browns more evenly, and has a richer flavor than the bagged stuff. If you use pre-grated parmesan, just know it might not create the same crispy crust you get with fresh cheese. For standout garlic parmesan chicken skewers, quality makes a difference—go fresh if you can.
Can I prepare or assemble the skewers ahead of time?
Yes! That’s part of what makes this recipe such a favorite. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which gives the garlic and lemon more time to work their magic. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak and store them ahead too. Just keep everything chilled until you’re ready to cook. Whether you’re meal prepping or planning for guests, garlic parmesan chicken skewers are a low-stress, high-flavor option that reheats beautifully.