These Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are packed with flavor! Tender chicken is marinated in garlicky goodness and sprinkled with tasty Parmesan cheese, making every bite a treat.
They’re super easy to cook, whether on the grill or in the oven. I love serving them with a side of fresh veggies. Who doesn’t enjoy a meal on a stick? It’s just fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too! If you’re looking to save time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, cutting it into cubes, and marinating it briefly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove. However, fresh is always better for that punchy taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice texture and flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano can be a great alternative. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast offers a similar cheesy flavor.
Olive Oil: This brings richness to the marinade. You can swap it for avocado oil for a different flavor, or if you want a lighter option, use a little vegetable broth.
Herbs: If you don’t have dried oregano or basil, Italian seasoning works fine. Fresh herbs can add extra freshness but use them in larger quantities since they’re less concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Kebabs Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken kebabs juicy requires a good marinade and proper cooking technique. The marinade is key because it infuses flavor and moisture. Here’s how to make sure your kebabs turn out perfect:
- Let your chicken marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
- When grilling, preheat the grill well. This helps sear the outside and lock in the juices.
- Avoid overcrowding the skewers; space them out so the heat circulates evenly, ensuring all parts cook properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Finally, let your kebabs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making each bite as juicy as possible!
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (the longer, the better!). You’ll need around 10-12 minutes to grill the kebabs, making a total of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Stir until well combined to create a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the flavorful mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let it marinate for 2-3 hours for an even richer flavor.
3. Preheat Your Cooking Method:
If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, making cleanup easier.
4. Assemble the Kebabs:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps with even cooking.
5. Cook the Kebabs:
If you’re grilling, place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has lovely grill marks. For the oven method, arrange the kebabs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even cooking.
6. Let Rest and Serve:
After cooking, remove the kebabs from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help keep the chicken juicy. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs warm alongside your favorite sides like a fresh salad, rice, or grilled veggies. Enjoy the mouthwatering cheesy garlic flavor in every bite!
FAQ for Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Can I Use Other Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! These kebabs work well with turkey, pork, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary—shrimp will take less time, while pork might need a few extra minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. Just be careful not to exceed this time, as the acidic lemon juice can start to break down the chicken, changing its texture.
What If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries! You can cook the marinated chicken directly on a grilling pan or a baking sheet. Just make sure to arrange the pieces so they don’t touch, allowing for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Enjoy them as a salad topping or in wraps!
