If you’re looking for a crave-worthy grilled dinner that’s equal parts comforting and exciting, the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These juicy chicken skewers are marinated in herby ranch, zesty garlic, and a touch of smoked paprika, then finished with a shower of melted Parmesan and fresh parsley. Every bite is bursting with flavor, and whether you’re gathering with friends or feeding your family, you’ll love how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality taste straight to your backyard.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can create such an irresistible dish! Each component of the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe brings something special to the table, from bold flavors to tender texture and beautiful color.
- Chicken breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into even 1.5-inch cubes for juicy, easy-to-eat skewers.
- Olive oil: This provides moisture, helps the marinade cling to the chicken, and gives a subtle richness.
- Ranch seasoning mix: The secret to an herby, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with Parmesan and garlic.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses every bite with a punch of aromatic goodness.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle, warming heat that balances the creamy ranch and cheese.
- Smoked paprika: This spice brings a touch of smokiness and gorgeous color to your skewers.
- Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and a salty, nutty finish.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal note right before serving.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked to prevent burning; metal skewers are reusable and sturdy.
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This simple trick keeps them from burning on the grill and ensures your delicious chicken stays right where it should—on the stick, not the fire! Metal skewers can be used straight away and are perfect for repeat grilling sessions.
Step 2: Whisk and Marinate
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This marinade is what makes the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe so special—it’s bold, creamy, and super aromatic. Add your chicken cubes and toss them until they’re well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, let it soak for up to 4 hours for even deeper flavor.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot before the chicken goes on. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your prepared skewers, packing them snugly but not too tightly. Grill the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes so they cook evenly and develop gorgeous grill marks. The chicken should be cooked through and irresistibly juicy.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken. Let it melt just a bit, clinging to the hot meat, and forming a savory, golden crust that’s impossible to resist. This step really sets the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe apart from any ordinary grilled chicken!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once off the grill, transfer your skewers to a serving platter and shower them with chopped fresh parsley. The vibrant green makes the dish look as good as it tastes. Serve the skewers hot and get ready for rave reviews at the table!
How to Serve Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of fresh parsley brings brightness and color to the skewers, while an extra dusting of Parmesan never hurts. Serve with a side of ranch dressing or a creamy garlic aioli for dipping—you’ll love how these garnishes amplify the flavors and make the dish even more special.
Side Dishes
This Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe pairs beautifully with classic summer sides: think grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a crisp garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve over a bed of herbed rice or alongside garlic bread to soak up every last bit of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, arrange the skewers on a big platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra parsley. For a fun twist, remove the chicken from the skewers and pile it onto warm pita with lettuce and a drizzle of ranch for a quick wrap. These skewers are also fantastic over mixed greens for a protein-packed salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, let them cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or meal prep.
Freezing
To freeze, remove the chicken from the skewers and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. The Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the cheese and coating might not crisp up the same way. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving to revive that just-grilled look and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving and stay especially juicy on the grill. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the rest of the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe as written.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free, the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe fits perfectly into a gluten-free diet. Always double-check your labels to be certain.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can bake the skewers in a 425°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll still get juicy, flavorful chicken with a cheesy finish—just use a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
While you can marinate for up to 4 hours, it’s best not to go much longer. The acidity in the ranch seasoning can start to break down the chicken too much if left overnight, affecting the texture.
What’s the best way to keep the cheese from falling off?
Sprinkle the Parmesan on during the last couple of minutes of grilling when the chicken is hot—this helps it melt slightly and adhere better. Using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties will also help it stick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s both crowd-pleasing and simple, you can’t go wrong with the Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. It’s a flavorful, fuss-free way to bring people together around the table or the grill. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight (or weekend!) meal.
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Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers combine tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful ranch seasoning blend with aromatic garlic and smoky paprika. Grilled to perfection and topped with melted Parmesan, these skewers are a delicious and easy main course perfect for summer grilling or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Other
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Make Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade bowl and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot before cooking.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers, distributing them evenly.
- Grill Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and grill marks.
- Add Parmesan: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken skewers allowing it to melt slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove skewers from grill, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Serve with a side of ranch dressing or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Pairs well with grilled vegetables or served over a fresh salad.
- For an alternative cooking method, bake the skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 18 to 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
