These Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy and full of flavor! Marinated in a yummy ranch dressing, they are then sprinkled with tasty Parmesan and garlic before grilling.
Perfect for a sunny day, I love how quick they are to make. Just skewer, grill, and enjoy! 🍗🥳 Plus, they disappear fast at any BBQ—like magic, poof! Where did they go?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly here. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use shrimp or tofu for a different protein option!
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is super convenient, but you can also make your own. A mix of yogurt, mayonnaise, and some herbs will do the trick! This could be great if you’re looking for a healthier version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings awesome flavor, but garlic powder is a quick replacement if you’re in a pinch. Just use one teaspoon of garlic powder instead!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken in ranch dressing is key to keeping it flavorful and tender. Letting it sit for at least 30 minutes really helps absorb all those delicious flavors. For even better results, marinate it for a few hours before grilling!
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl, then add your chicken cubes and make sure they’re fully coated.
- For soak time, if you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 20 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- When grilling, keep an eye on the skewers and turn them occasionally to get a nice char without overcooking.
Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to marinate. After that, grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. So overall, you’ll need about 50-55 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, dried parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning while grilling. This will help keep your skewers intact and your chicken delicious!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers evenly, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and ready when your skewers are ready to go on!
6. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are cooked evenly and have nice grill marks. You want the chicken to be cooked through and juicy!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in for an even tastier bite.
8. Garnish (Optional):
If you want, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top before serving. It looks nice and adds a little more flavor!
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the chicken skewers warm with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a slightly juicier and more flavorful skewer. Just keep the cooking time the same, and ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to warm through.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade the night before! Just mix all the marinade ingredients and store it in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to cook, simply marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
What Should I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers are delicious on their own, but they pair fantastic with sides like grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even rice and potatoes. Feel free to get creative!
