These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are juicy and packed with flavor! They’re made with tender chicken pieces marinated in a tasty mix of garlic, cheese, and herbs.
Perfect for grilling season, they make every BBQ a hit. I love serving mine with a side of veggies for a fun meal—you can’t go wrong when cheese is involved! 🍗🧄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe shines with chicken breast, but you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. They add more flavor and are generally more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my choice for the marinade due to its rich flavor. Canola or avocado oil works too if you’re looking for something with a lighter taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use about half the amount, as it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful salty zing. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: I prefer yogurt for a tangy touch, but sour cream is also great. If you’re seeking lighter options, you could use Greek yogurt, or even low-fat sour cream.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial to get tender, flavor-packed chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Feel free to adjust garlic or Parmesan to your taste.
- Add your chicken pieces and stir to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap to lock in flavors.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; up to 2 hours is ideal for deeper flavor. Don’t go too long, as the acidity can change the chicken’s texture.
Remember, the longer the marination, the more flavor you’ll infuse into the chicken. Just don’t forget to prep your skewers if they’re wood – soaking prevents burning!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For The Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes for marinating. After that, grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. So overall, you should plan for around 1 hour to get this delicious dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make The Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, yogurt (or sour cream), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well until it’s all combined nicely to create your marinade.
2. Marinate The Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure all the chicken is coated evenly with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours for an even tastier result!
3. Preheat The Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help get that perfect sear on your chicken kebabs!
4. Skewering the Chicken:
Now it’s time to thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water beforehand to prevent burning.
5. Grill The Kebabs:
Place the chicken kebabs on the grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has delicious grill marks.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for tender, juicy chicken. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, serve your tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs warm and enjoy every bite! They’re perfect for a family dinner or a summer barbecue!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and juiciness to your kebabs. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken breast to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar taste. Alternatively, nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option, giving that cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Can I Make These Kebabs Spicier?
To add a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the marinade. You can also marinate with a bit of hot sauce for extra heat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal!
