Summer is the perfect time for grilling, and there’s no better way to enjoy a flavorful, juicy meal than with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs. These kebabs are packed with tender chicken pieces marinated in a delicious blend of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, making them an ideal choice for any backyard barbecue or family dinner. With the combination of savory garlic, rich Parmesan, and smoky grilled flavors, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or new to grilling, these easy grilled chicken dinner kebabs will take your grilling game to the next level. They’re simple, full of flavor, and perfect for serving a crowd. If you’re looking for new grilling ideas, grilled meat ideas, or best food to grill, this recipe is an absolute must-try!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
There are plenty of reasons why you’ll love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs—here are just a few:
- Perfectly balanced flavors: The savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese complement the chicken perfectly, delivering a mouthwatering experience.
- Easy and quick: These kebabs can be prepared in under 30 minutes and are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend grilling session.
- Family-friendly: The mild flavors of the garlic Parmesan marinade make this recipe a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, or even try different variations like adding veggies to the kebabs.
- Grill-friendly: They cook quickly on the grill, making them ideal for any BBQ or summer gathering.
Looking for more yummy grilled chicken recipes? Try this grilled chicken with lemon and herbs, another family-friendly favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
To make these flavorful seasoned grilled chicken recipes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a tangy twist)
For Grilling:
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (or metal skewers)
These ingredients will give you perfectly grilled chicken on the BBQ recipes that are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
Want a fun side to go with these kebabs? Check out this sweet potato cinnamon roll cake, a perfect dessert for your grilling night!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into 1 1/2-inch cubes. Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them until all the chicken pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. For best results, marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully absorb into the chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow the heat to cook the chicken evenly.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn down to a medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 5: Grill the Kebabs
Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F. Be sure to turn the skewers occasionally for even cooking and to achieve grill marks on all sides.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and let the kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
These easy grilled chicken dinner kebabs are perfect on their own, or you can serve them with a side of grilled veggies or a light salad. For an extra special touch, drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze.
If you’re looking for a tasty grilled side, try this grilled vegetable medley or grilled corn on the cob.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken on the BBQ
To ensure your garlic parmesan chicken kebabs are cooked to perfection, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t over-marinade: While marinating the chicken is important, leaving it in the marinade for too long can cause the chicken to become mushy. 30 minutes to 1 hour is ideal.
- Use a meat thermometer: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give the kebabs some space on the grill so they can cook evenly and develop a nice sear.
- Baste with marinade: During grilling, brush the chicken with any leftover marinade (be sure to discard any marinade that has touched raw chicken) for extra flavor.
- Use high heat for grill marks: To get that beautiful golden-brown color, grill the chicken over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side.
Want another grilling tip? Try this grilled chicken with pineapple salsa for a tropical twist!
New Grilling Ideas: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Variations
These kebabs are highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with new grilled meat ideas. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, onions, and zucchini on the skewers for a colorful and flavorful veggie addition. Grilled veggies pair beautifully with the seasoned grilled chicken recipes.
- Try different seasonings: Mix up the flavors by adding some smoked paprika, chili flakes, or lemon zest to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Cheese variations: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or goat cheese for a different cheesy twist.
- Serve with a dipping sauce: Serve these kebabs with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch, tzatziki, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.
If you love seasoned grilled chicken recipes, try these grilled chicken thighs for a juicy alternative!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
These flavorful kebabs pair well with a variety of side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms are perfect alongside the kebabs.
- Rice pilaf: A simple rice pilaf adds a hearty, aromatic side to balance the chicken.
- Greek salad: With fresh veggies, olives, and feta, a Greek salad complements the Mediterranean flavors of the garlic Parmesan chicken.
- Garlic bread: Serve these kebabs with a side of crispy, buttery garlic bread to complete your meal.
Want something sweet to end your meal? Try these irresistible peach crisps for a cozy dessert to balance out the savory flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Chicken
Grilling can be tricky, especially when it comes to chicken. Avoid these common mistakes to get the best results:
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts are lean and can dry out quickly if overcooked. Keep an eye on the temperature and remove the kebabs once they reach 165°F.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! The garlic Parmesan marinade is essential for bringing out the flavors.
- Using cold chicken: Let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Kebabs
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on a low heat on the grill to preserve its juiciness. You can also use leftover chicken in wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work wonderfully with this marinade. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time.
Can I prepare the kebabs in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and assemble the kebabs up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to grill.
Can I cook these kebabs in the oven?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F.
What’s the best way to ensure my chicken doesn’t stick to the grill?
Oil the grill grates before grilling, and ensure your chicken is well-marinated with oil to prevent sticking.
Conclusion + Call to Action: Share the Best Grilled Chicken Recipes
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are the perfect addition to your grilling repertoire. With their rich flavor and juicy chicken, they’ll be a hit at any BBQ or dinner gathering. Whether you’re a grill enthusiast or just looking for an easy grilled chicken dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends, leave a comment, and subscribe to our blog for more grilled chicken recipes, new grilling ideas, and family-friendly dinner options.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs are the perfect summer dinner! Grilled to perfection with a flavorful marinade of garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese, these juicy chicken skewers are the ultimate combination of savory, smoky, and cheesy. Serve them with fresh vegetables, a creamy dip, or on their own for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple and delicious.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- For the Kebabs:
- 1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- For the Parmesan Coating:
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best results)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
- Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the bell pepper and onion into chunks, about the same size as the chicken pieces.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between chicken and veggies.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with oil.
- Grill the Kebabs: Grill for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Baste with leftover marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
- Add the Final Touches: Once grilled, sprinkle with more parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, add some smoked paprika to the marinade.
- For juicier kebabs, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers—this ensures even cooking and that the chicken stays juicy.
- For indoor grilling, a grill pan works perfectly to give the chicken those beautiful grill marks.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs, Grilled Chicken Kebabs, Chicken Skewers Recipe, BBQ Chicken Kebabs, Easy Chicken Grilling Recipes