These Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor and super simple to make! The juicy chicken pieces are coated with ranch seasoning and garlic for a tasty twist.
If you’re like me, you might just end up munching on them straight off the grill! Don’t forget to serve them with your favorite dipping sauce—it makes them even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps it simple and healthy, but you could substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: A classic for flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can mix dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder to make your own along with salt.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder could work, but fresh is always best for that punchy taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice cheesy touch. If you’re vegan, try nutritional yeast as a substitute for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Olive Oil: Good for grilling, but you could use avocado oil or even melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the chicken is key to getting delicious and tender skewers. Make sure to mix the marinade thoroughly so every piece of chicken gets coated.
- Combine olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add cubed chicken, coating it well. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 mins (up to 1 hour is better).
This step allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making every bite tastier!
Why Should I Soak Wooden Skewers?
Soaking wooden skewers for about 30 minutes before using them prevents them from burning on the grill. It keeps your chicken on the stick and makes cooking easier.
- Fill a bowl with water and let the skewers sit while you prepare your chicken.
- This will help them hold up during grilling without catching fire.
Enjoy a hassle-free grilling experience with perfectly cooked skewers!
How to Make Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes for grilling. With marinating time, plan for about 40 minutes to 1 hour total. It’s easy and quick, letting you enjoy these delicious skewers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to mix everything together into a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade in the bowl. Toss the chicken pieces until they are all evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but an hour will give you the best flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This will ensure that when you put the skewers on, they will cook evenly and get beautiful grill marks.
4. Prepare the Skewers:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and there should be nice grill marks on the chicken.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and makes them extra juicy when you bite in!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Optionally, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top before serving to make them look even more delicious! Enjoy your easy, grilled ranch garlic Parmesan chicken skewers with your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Chicken with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! You can use boneless turkey breast, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly – shrimp will cook faster, while tofu should be marinated similarly for flavor.
Can I Use Homemade Ranch Seasoning?
Yes, homemade ranch seasoning works perfectly! Just mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder along with salt and pepper. This can add a personalized touch to your skewers.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them!
Can I Grill These Skewers in the Oven?
Definitely! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake them at 400°F on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
