Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is bursting with flavor and offers a perfect balance of savory, herby, and smoky goodness. The grilling process adds an irresistible char, and the Parmesan cheese gives the chicken a crispy, golden coating that enhances every bite. The recipe is quick, easy, and can be customized to fit any occasion, from family dinners to summer BBQs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine thoroughly.

2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Preheat the Grill
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat about 10 minutes before grilling.

4. Prepare the Skewers
   Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring there is space between each piece for even cooking.

5. Grill the Skewers
   Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is golden-brown with grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

6. Rest and Serve
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, with optional garnishes of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 people
• Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Substitute Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, and add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Spicy Parmesan Skewers: For a kick, mix in ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Mediterranean-Style Skewers: Use a blend of oregano, thyme, and mint, and pair with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat on the grill, in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave in short intervals.
• Freezing: Marinated, raw chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before skewering and grilling.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and provide a juicier result, though they may take a bit longer to cook.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is ideal.

3. Can I make these skewers in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan on the stove will work just fine, though you won’t get the same smoky flavor from grilling.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is the best way to check.

6. Can I freeze cooked chicken skewers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked skewers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

7. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce as a dipping sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara is a quick and delicious option for dipping.

8. Are these skewers gluten-free?

Yes, these skewers are naturally gluten-free as long as the Parmesan cheese and other ingredients don't contain gluten.

9. How should I soak wooden skewers?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill.

10. Can I serve these skewers with a side of pasta?

Absolutely! These skewers pair perfectly with pasta for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers bring the bold flavors of Italy to your grill. They're quick to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough for a family dinner or a BBQ gathering. With variations to suit your taste, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy the delicious combination of grilled chicken and Italian seasoning with every bite!

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These Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful grilled dish made with tender chicken cubes marinated in Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian herbs, and paprika. Perfect for any occasion, these skewers are a crowd favorite, ideal for summer BBQs or family dinners. Easy to make and bursting with savory, herby goodness, they are a healthy, protein-packed meal that's quick and versatile.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Appetizer, Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Prepare the Marinade:
  In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine thoroughly.

• Marinate the Chicken:
  Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

• Preheat the Grill:
  Preheat your grill to medium-high heat about 10 minutes before grilling.

• Prepare the Skewers:
  Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring there is space between each piece for even cooking.

• Grill the Skewers:
  Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is golden-brown with grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

• Rest and Serve:
  Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, with optional garnishes of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.

Notes

• For an extra burst of flavor, serve with marinara or garlic aioli.
• Try adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs after grilling for added flair.