These juicy garlic parmesan chicken kebabs are packed with flavor! Marinated in garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan, they’re perfect for grilling or oven baking.
These kebabs make dinner fun! I love how easy they are to whip up. Just skewer the chicken and cook for a few minutes. Squeezing lemon on top is a must for that extra zing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness and flavor. You can also use chicken breasts, but they might be a bit drier. If you want a vegetarian option, try tofu or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (about 1 teaspoon for 3 cloves). If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a bit of heat! If you don’t like spice, you can skip them. Alternatively, cayenne pepper gives a different kind of heat.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Stay Juicy on the Skewers?
The key to juicy chicken kebabs is proper marinating and cooking. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour to allow the flavors to soak in. Longer is even better!
- When grilling, keep your heat at medium-high. This ensures a good sear without drying out the chicken.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers! This allows for even cooking on all sides.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking moist chicken.
Finally, always let the kebabs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps juices redistribute, making each bite deliciously juicy!
Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken, ideally 2-3 hours for more flavor. Grilling takes about 10 minutes, making the total time around 1 hour and 20 minutes, including marinating. It’s a fun and tasty way to showcase your grilling skills!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well until everything is combined into a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and toss them so that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but 2-3 hours is best for maximum flavor!
3. Heat Things Up:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you prefer to use your oven, set the broiler or preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, packing them snugly but ensuring they’re not too crowded—this helps them cook evenly.
5. Grill to Perfection:
Put the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Turn them once so that the chicken gets those lovely grill marks! The chicken should be nicely charred and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re broiling in the oven, place the kebabs on a lined baking tray and broil for about 4-6 minutes per side.
6. Final Touches:
Once cooked, take the kebabs off the grill and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for an added burst of flavor and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side—squeeze them over the kebabs for a delightful tang! Enjoy your juicy, flavorful garlic Parmesan chicken kebabs with your favorite sides!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that breasts can dry out more easily than thighs, so be careful not to overcook them. Try to marinate for the same amount of time for the best flavor.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s well covered to prevent contaminants from other foods, and use it within this time frame for the best flavor and texture.
What Should I Serve With These Kebabs?
These kebabs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables. They’re also great in a pita or flatbread with some sauce or tzatziki.
How Do I Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain their juiciness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can dry them out.
