These Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! The ranch dressing and garlic bring out the best in the chicken while the Parmesan adds a yummy, cheesy touch.
Who doesn’t love a good kebab? I could snack on these all day! Just grill or bake them and enjoy a tasty meal that’s simple to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean meat, but thighs add more flavor and juiciness. You can also use turkey or even tofu for a non-meat option.
Ranch Dressing: For a lighter version, try a homemade ranch made with Greek yogurt. It keeps the creaminess but adds some protein. If you’re dairy-free, check out plant-based ranch dressings.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect, but feel free to swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute, giving a cheesy taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that strong flavor, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder – about 1 teaspoon will do.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the dish! If you have other herbs on hand like basil or cilantro, they make great substitutes.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Tender and Juicy?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for tenderness. Here’s how to ensure each piece stays juicy:
- Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to absorb flavors. For best results, aim for 1-2 hours.
- Keep the grill or pan at medium-high heat to give it a nice sear without drying it out.
- Don’t overcook! Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should be 165°F (74°C).
How to Make Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time. After marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or 1-2 hours for extra flavor), grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed together nicely. This is your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, add the chicken pieces to the bowl. Toss them well until every piece is coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes; for optimal flavor, aim for 1-2 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). You can also use a grill pan or broiler if you prefer cooking indoors.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Don’t pack them too tight; you want the grill heat to circulate around them.
5. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some more Parmesan and fresh parsley on top before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious skewers hot alongside your favorite sides or dipping sauces. They’re perfect for a family dinner or when entertaining guests!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
FAQ for Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using shrimp or tofu.
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warm.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix it with the chicken when you’re ready to cook, allowing enough time for marinating!
