These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is marinated in a garlic and Parmesan mix, then grilled to perfection. Perfect for fun summer cookouts!
I love how easy they are to make! Just stick the chicken on skewers, pop them on the grill, and watch them disappear. Plus, the smell is simply mouthwatering! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for kebabs. They cook evenly and stay tender. You could use thighs for more flavor or even cubed firm tofu for a vegetarian option!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a strong flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano works well. Nutritional yeast can also be an option for a dairy-free alternative, giving a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punchy taste. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, about 1 teaspoon for every clove needed. Just remember, the fresh stuff has a different depth.
Herbs: Dried oregano and parsley are easy to find. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use those instead! Just double the amount, as fresh herbs are less potent.
Red Pepper Flakes: These provide a little heat. You can skip them or use cayenne pepper for a different kind of spice. If you prefer mild flavors, you can leave them out completely!
How Do You Perfectly Marinate the Chicken for Flavors?
Marinating the chicken is key for flavor. It needs time to soak in those tasty ingredients, so plan ahead! Here’s how to make it effective:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well before adding the chicken.
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated. The more coverage, the better!
- If you have time, let it marinate for a few hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
Remember, the longer the chicken marinates, the more delicious it becomes. Just don’t go too far, or it could become mushy!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
For Skewers:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes total, including 30 minutes for the chicken to marinate and about 10-12 minutes for cooking the kebabs on the grill. It’s a simple process that leads to a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Make the Chicken Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until the chicken is well coated with the marinade. This is where the flavor starts!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, and if you have extra time, let it sit for up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the kebabs cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
5. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, thread the cubed chicken onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to help them cook uniformly. Don’t pack them too tightly!
6. Grill the Kebabs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have beautiful grill marks!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. You can garnish with additional parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the kebabs with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor to your kebabs. Just keep in mind that they may take a minute or two longer to cook compared to chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just adjust the quantity to your taste since these cheeses can sometimes have stronger flavors than Parmesan.
How Should I Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or you can pop them in the microwave for a quick fix!
Can I Bake These Instead of Grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and slightly golden. This method works great when you can’t grill!
