These chicken skewers are super simple and full of flavor! Marinated in ranch dressing, garlic, and parmesan, they’re juicy and tasty right off the grill.
I love making these for friends at BBQs. They’re easy to prepare and always a hit. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? Just grab a skewer and enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and perfect for skewers. You can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. Both work well here!
Ranch Dressing: Use store-bought ranch for convenience, or make your own for a fresher taste. A yogurt-based dressing can also be a healthier alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work too—use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a cheesy kick. Feel free to use Pecorino Romano as a substitute for a different flavor profile. Nutritional yeast can be a great non-dairy option!
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens things up! If you don’t have fresh, dried parsley will do. Just use a bit less.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers Without Them Sticking?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky when they stick to the grill! Here are a few pointers to keep your skewers moving smoothly:
- Make sure your grill is properly preheated. This helps create a sear that prevents sticking.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil before placing the skewers on it. Use tongs to apply a light coat.
- Leave some space between the chicken pieces on the skewer. This promotes even cooking and airflow.
- Don’t move the skewers too soon. Let them cook for a few minutes before turning—this helps release them from the grill.
Following these tips will help make your grilling experience smooth while ensuring tasty chicken skewers every time!
Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or chunks suitable for skewering)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 mins before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a soaking and marinating time of 30 minutes to 2 hours (the longer, the better!). The grilling itself will take around 10-12 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour to 2 hours and 15 minutes depending on the marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning (if using), crushed red pepper flakes (if you’d like a kick), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined to create a flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, and make sure each piece is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, try to marinate for 1 to 2 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a nice sear on your skewers.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
After marination, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they have soaked to prevent burning.
5. Prepare the Grill:
To keep the skewers from sticking, brush the grill grates with olive oil using a paper towel or a grill brush.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Turn them once to ensure even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have beautiful grill marks!
7. Add Extra Flavor:
If you like, during the last minute of grilling, brush the skewers with any leftover marinade or sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for additional flavor and moisture.
8. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the skewers off the grill. Allow them to rest for a few minutes to let the juices settle before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious ranch garlic Parmesan chicken skewers hot with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or rice. They are sure to be a hit!
These cheesy, garlicky, zesty chicken skewers are perfect for easy weeknight dinners or summer cookouts. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 6 hours in advance for enhanced flavor. Just store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Try to grill within a day for the best taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also enjoy them cold in salads!
What Can I Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables, potato salad, rice, or a fresh salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving them with creamy pasta or garlic bread!
