Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts (or thighs) into 1 ½-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size so that they cook evenly.
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, drizzle the chicken cubes with olive oil. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken well to coat evenly with the seasoning.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece so that they cook more evenly.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir. Allow it to cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the butter and forms a smooth sauce. Add lemon juice (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: Add the freshly chopped parsley to the sauce and stir to combine. This gives the sauce a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Skewers
- Grill the Skewers:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place the skewers on it. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Brush the Skewers with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Coat the Chicken: Once the skewers are cooked, brush each piece generously with the warm garlic Parmesan sauce. Make sure to coat each chicken cube thoroughly for the best flavor.
- Serve: Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken skewers immediately while they’re hot. Garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired, for an added burst of flavor.
Step 5: Optional Sides to Serve
These skewers pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Serve with some crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty side.
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair with grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a healthy option.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crispy romaine and tangy dressing complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. You can also use metal skewers if you prefer.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional depth of flavor.
- Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 1-2 hours (or overnight) before skewering it.
- Grilling Tips: Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Make sure there’s space between each piece of chicken to ensure even cooking.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and garlicky goodness. Whether you cook them on the grill, in the oven, or on the stovetop, the juicy chicken and the rich garlic Parmesan sauce will have everyone asking for more. This dish is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that make it perfect for casual dinners, special occasions, or even as a delicious appetizer. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible taste of these flavorful skewers!