Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

Juicy and flavorful, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are perfect for any gathering, from backyard barbecues to elegant dinner parties. These kebabs are marinated in a delightful blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, their versatility and mouthwatering taste will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory profile that elevates the chicken.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is hassle-free.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time for quick grilling on busy nights.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer cookouts, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling skewers (metal or wooden)
• Mixing bowl
• Grill
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling skewers: Essential for holding the chicken pieces together while cooking. Metal skewers are reusable and heat up evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to mix the marinade thoroughly without spilling ingredients.
• Grill: Provides the ideal temperature for perfectly cooked chicken with a delicious charred flavor.
• Basting brush: Helps apply the marinade evenly on the chicken kebabs for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Juicy pieces of chicken are marinated in garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs then grilled to perfection!

For the Chicken

• 2-pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut each piece of chicken into 1-inch cubes.
2. Thread the chicken onto 8 metal or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading with the chicken. This ensures they won’t catch on fire as they grill.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

1. In a medium-size bowl, mix together:
2. Grated Parmesan cheese
3. White vinegar
4. Extra-virgin olive oil
5. Lemon juice
6. Garlic powder
7. Dried oregano
8. Onion powder
9. Crushed red pepper flakes
10. Salt and pepper

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken Kebabs

1. Baste the chicken kebabs with the garlic Parmesan mixture on all sides.
2. Place the coated kebabs on a large platter and gently cover them.
3. Place in the fridge to let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 12 hours.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Grill kebabs with the lid closed for about 5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
3. Serve kebabs warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kebabs will surely impress your guests.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the kebabs directly on skewers for a rustic presentation.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and place it in soft tortillas.
• Top with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Lay the kebabs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
• Drizzle with extra garlic Parmesan sauce for added flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer ranch, tzatziki, or BBQ sauce as dipping options.
• This adds an interactive element to your meal.

As Appetizers

• Serve small portions on toothpicks for easy snacking.
• Ideal for parties or gatherings where guests can mingle.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavors.
• Preheat the Grill: A hot grill ensures that you get those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow kebabs to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this keeps them juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus are great choices. Simply toss them in olive oil and seasonings before grilling.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the flavors of the kebabs nicely with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons.
3. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an extra dose of flavor that matches well with chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the kebabs.
5. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf with herbs makes an excellent base to soak up juices from the kebabs.
6. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables is refreshing and pairs well with grilled meats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the marination: Failing to marinate your chicken can lead to bland kebabs. Make sure to let the chicken soak in the garlic Parmesan mixture for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
• Not soaking wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, skipping the soaking step can result in burnt sticks. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Thread about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer for optimal grilling.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your kebabs. Aim for medium heat to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Not checking doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to undercooked meat. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Ensure they are cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place kebabs on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté kebabs for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs?

Yes, you can use turkey, shrimp, or even firm vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers as substitutes.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but can leave it up to 12 hours for more intense flavor.

What sides pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs?

These kebabs pair nicely with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables. Feel free to get creative!

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate them in advance, then just grill when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different marinades or vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these flavorful kebabs at your next gathering!