These Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! They’re loaded with flavorful ranch dressing and sprinkled with cheesy Parmesan to keep things exciting.
Cooking them on skewers makes them fun to eat! I love serving these with a side of veggies or dipping sauce. Just be careful—they vanish fast at my house! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for skewers. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! They tend to stay juicier during cooking.
Ranch Dressing: You can use store-bought ranch for convenience. If you want a healthier or dairy-free option, try making your own with Greek yogurt or a plant-based substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor! If you’re out, pecorino Romano is a tasty substitute. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free option too.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could be used, but the flavor won’t be as strong; use about 1 teaspoon instead of 3 cloves.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken on Skewers?
Making juicy chicken skewers depends a lot on marinating and cooking techniques. Marinating does wonders by adding flavor and moisture. Here’s how to achieve the best results:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; it’s even better if you can do it for 1-2 hours.
- Ensure your grill is hot before adding skewers. This helps to sear the chicken quickly.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes to cook evenly on all sides. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid overcooking.
Your chicken will come out juicy and delicious, making these skewers a hit at any gathering!
Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious option for a busy weeknight or a fun get-together. Don’t forget additional marinating time of at least 30 minutes for the best flavor, ideally up to 2 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mix will add a delicious flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade. Stir well to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, 1-2 hours is ideal for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps give the chicken a nice sear.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, packing them closely but not touching. This will help them cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes. The chicken is done when it’s golden and the juices run clear (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
6. Add the Toppings:
After removing the skewers from the grill, immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot chicken. If you love parsley, add some dried parsley for extra color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the skewers hot alongside your favorite sides, such as fresh veggies or a nice dipping sauce. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge. For quicker results, you can place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for between 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you marinate for longer, the flavors will deepen, but avoid exceeding four hours as the texture can become mushy due to the acidity in the dressing.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added flavor!
Can I Grill These Skewers in the Oven?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can use your oven. Preheat it 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 thoroughly.
