This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is packed with yummy flavors! The blend of garlic, buttery goodness, and fresh Parmesan makes every bite super tasty and juicy.
Making this chicken is a breeze: just marinate, grill, and enjoy! It’s a hit for family dinners or backyard barbecues, and everyone loves it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook evenly. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! You could even substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor, but you can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a nice substitute for that cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will do! If you want a gluten-free option, find gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really brings the dish to life, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon if using powdered garlic.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor, but you can use canola or avocado oil if you want a lighter taste. Both have high smoke points for grilling.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can seem tricky, but it’s all about the right preparation and techniques! First, always coat the chicken well with the mixture to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes; this prevents them from burning and sticks them to food nicely.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (around 375°F). This is key to cooking the chicken evenly without burning.
- Cook the skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for fully cooked chicken.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices inside!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for color and flavor)
Additional Items:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to cook. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before you start. That’ll help prevent them from burning on the grill! In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps stop them from burning on the grill. While they soak, you can prepare the chicken and the coating!
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Coating:
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir everything together until you have a nice paste. This mixture is going to give your chicken a wonderful flavor!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add your chicken strips to the bowl with the garlic Parmesan mixture. Mix everything well, making sure each piece of chicken is fully coated with that yummy mixture. You want all that flavor to stick!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Carefully thread the coated chicken strips onto your skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip soaking!
5. Heat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium heat, around 375°F (190°C). This temperature will give your chicken a nice golden-brown color and keep it juicy!
6. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and nicely browned. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This lets the juices settle, making your chicken even tastier! If you like, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley as a garnish before serving.
8. Enjoy!
Your Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor the flavorful bites. It’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weekday dinner!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
While this recipe specifically calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quicker cooking, you can use bone-in chicken if desired. Just keep in mind that cooking times will increase! You’ll want to grill bone-in pieces for about 15-20 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help maintain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them if you prefer a quicker option, but the texture may not be as crunchy.
Can I Substitute the Parmesan Cheese?
Yes! If you need a substitute, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re lactose-intolerant. Just ensure the cheese you choose is finely grated to mix well with the breadcrumbs.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or over a bed of rice or quinoa. You can also add a dipping sauce like ranch or a zesty lemon aioli on the side for extra flavor!
