Ah, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. If there’s one recipe that brings a smile to my face quicker than a pizza delivery driver, it’s these tasty little morsels! This dish has been a staple in my home for ages. I fondly remember summer evenings spent in the backyard, skewering chicken with my kids while trying to dodge the pesky mosquitoes. The kids would sprinkle the Parmesan cheese like they were topping a salad, and we would all try to sneak bites of the raw chicken (don’t judge, it’s all in good fun!).
There’s something so incredibly satisfying about cooking food on skewers. Not only do they make for a beautiful presentation, but they also allow the flavors to meld together beautifully as they grill or bake. So, whether you’re hosting a cookout or just looking for a quick and tasty dinner, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are sure to be a hit!
What’s in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Boneless Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! I prefer using organic chicken for that tender, juicy bite. It’s easy to find and works brilliantly when marinated.
Garlic Cloves: The more, the merrier! Minced garlic gives these skewers their punchy flavor. Fresh garlic has a robustness that the powdered stuff just can’t compete with.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Oh, cheese, how do I love thee? This adds a rich, salty flavor and helps create a lovely crust when grilled. I love to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste, but the pre-grated stuff will work in a pinch!
Olive Oil: A must-have in any kitchen! Not only does it help to keep the chicken moist, but it also assists in getting that gorgeous golden color. I usually grab a good quality extra virgin olive oil for max flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential! These little guys enhance all the flavors of the chicken and garlic.
Wooden Skewers: These are what make everything so delightful! I recommend soaking them in water for about 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Good for You?
You bet they are!
Boneless Chicken Breast: This lean protein is perfect for any healthy meal plan. It’s low in fat and high in protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Garlic: Not just for warding off vampires! Garlic is known for its numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure.
Parmesan Cheese: In moderation, Parmesan can be a good source of calcium and protein. Just remember, it’s also a bit salty, so don’t go overboard!
Olive oil brings its own benefits, being rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. So, while these skewers are undeniably delicious, they also offer some health perks! Just be mindful of your portion sizes and balance them with some fresh veggies or a side salad.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers (8-10)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
1. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and soak up all that delicious garlic and cheese flavor.
2. Mince the garlic cloves. You want them finely chopped so they can blend perfectly with the chicken.
3. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss everything together until the chicken is completely coated in the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
5. Take the wooden skewers and thread the chicken pieces onto them, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat. A grill makes these skewers extra delicious, but the oven works just as well.
7. Grill or bake the skewers for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely golden color.
8. Once they are done, remove them from the heat and serve warm. You might just want to take a moment to admire your masterpiece before diving in!
Skewer Suggestions and Tricks
Before you dive into those skewers, let me share a few quick tips to elevate your cooking game:
– **Vegetable Sidekicks:** You can throw some bell peppers, onions, or zucchini onto the skewers too! They soak up the flavor beautifully and add a lovely splash of color.
– **Marinade Time:** If you have time, marinate the chicken in the garlic and olive oil mixture for an hour or even overnight in the fridge. This will deepen the flavor even more.
– **Serving Suggestion:** Pair these skewers with a light salad or some grilled veggies for a complete meal. And don’t forget a fabulous dipping sauce! I recommend a cool ranch or tzatziki sauce.
I can’t wait for you to try making these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers! They’re simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. I encourage you to experiment — make it your own! Once you’ve whipped them up, share your experiences or any fun twists you added. Happy cooking!
