Your taste buds are in for a treat with these Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers! They are juicy chicken pieces coated in ranch seasoning and garlic, then grilled to perfection.
These skewers are simple to make and perfect for summer BBQs. Plus, who can resist that cheesy, garlicky goodness? I love serving them with a side of veggies. Yum! 🍗🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for this recipe. Thighs are juicier, but breasts work great too! If you’re vegetarian, try using firm tofu or mushrooms as a hearty substitute.
Ranch Seasoning: This is key for flavor! If you’re avoiding pre-packaged mixes, create your own with dried herbs like dill, onion powder, and garlic powder. It’s easy and fresh!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and taste. However, you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. Just reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for that cheesy taste without the dairy. I also love using Pecorino Romano for a bolder flavor.
Fresh Parsley: It brightens up the dish. If you’re out, try basil or even cilantro for a different twist!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating your chicken is crucial for flavor and tenderness. Give the chicken at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit for 1-2 hours. Here’s how to marinate effectively:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well to combine all the flavors.
- Make sure every chicken piece is completely coated in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate to let the flavors soak in; this step makes a huge difference!
When grilling, avoid overcrowding the skewers. Space them out to ensure even cooking and that lovely char. Happy grilling! 🍗🔥
How to Make Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Other Supplies:
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time for marinating, plus another 10-15 minutes to grill. If you marinate the chicken longer (1-2 hours), it helps deepen the flavors and ensures juicy skewers. Overall, plan for about 45 minutes to an hour for preparation and cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Add the olive oil, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until you get a thick marinade. This is what will flavor your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add your sliced chicken to the bowl and toss it around until all the pieces are coated evenly in that delicious marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on your skewers when you put them on!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Carefully thread the marinated chicken strips onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers. Make sure to space them out so they cook evenly—overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the loaded skewers on the grill. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side before flipping them. Cook until the chicken is nicely browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 10-15 minutes total.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the chicken, making it even juicier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chicken skewers hot! Feel free to garnish them with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese for that final touch. These are perfect for summer grilling or any outdoor gathering!
Enjoy your succulent, flavorful chicken skewers that everyone will love! 🍗🥳
FAQ for Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them a great option. Feel free to use either cut depending on your preference!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 1-2 hours. Just make sure not to marinate for too long (over 4 hours), as the acidity in the ranch seasoning can change the texture of the meat.
What Should I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair great with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up any leftover marinade.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again to keep the chicken moist.
