If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for a sunny backyard gathering or a cozy dinner, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe brings together juicy, tender chicken marinated in a garlicky, cheesy blend and skewered with colorful veggies for a perfect balance of taste and texture. Every bite delivers a delightful crunch from the peppers and onions paired with that irresistible Parmesan coating that elevates this simple meal to superstar status. Whether you’re an experienced griller or a novice ready to impress, these kebabs are easy to make and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe, with each element playing a vital role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The combination of fresh herbs, sharp Parmesan, and vibrant vegetables ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness and looks as stunning as it tastes.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for tenderness and juicy results.
- Olive oil: Adds moistness to the chicken and helps in grilling to perfection.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the meat with a robust and aromatic flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with a zesty tang that balances the richness.
- Dried oregano and basil: Classic herbs that add an herby depth to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor note.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A key ingredient for that cheesy, savory punch inside and out.
- Bell pepper and red onion: Chunky and colorful, they bring sweetness and crunch.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a refreshing garnish that adds color and a hint of freshness.
- Parmesan coating ingredients (parmesan, olive oil, lemon zest): This mixture gives the final crispy, cheesy layer that makes these kebabs unforgettable.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
Start by mixing the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins, as the Parmesan melds with the herbs and garlic to create a rich, flavorful coating for the chicken. Toss the chicken cubes in this mixture until every piece is well covered, then let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors. If you have the time, letting it rest for up to 2 hours will deepen the taste and tenderness.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, cut the bell pepper and red onion into chunks roughly the same size as the chicken cubes. This ensures everything cooks evenly on the skewers, balancing soft, juicy chicken with crisp, slightly charred vegetables.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken and Vegetables
Alternately thread the marinated chicken and vegetable chunks onto skewers. This colorful pattern not only looks fantastic but also lets you enjoy a little bit of everything in each bite. Remember, the vibrant colors of the peppers and onions add visual appeal while their flavors complement the garlicky chicken perfectly.
Step 4: Preheat and Oil the Grill
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, about the perfect temperature for grilling these tender morsels without drying them out. Give the grates a quick brush with oil to prevent sticking and to help you achieve those classic grill marks that make kebabs so tempting.
Step 5: Grill the Kebabs
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. The key is patience—giving them enough time to cook through while basting occasionally with the leftover marinade adds layers of flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. You want your internal temp to reach 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Once off the grill, sprinkle a bit more freshly grated Parmesan on top and scatter some chopped fresh parsley for a burst of green and fresh aroma. Serve these hot, and watch your friends and family fall in love with every garlicky, cheesy, and juicy bite.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your kebabs with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a little extra lemon zest to enhance the bright, zesty notes already present in the dish. These little touches not only add a fresh aroma but also a beautiful pop of color to make the kebabs look as delightful as they taste.
Side Dishes
Complement the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe with sides that keep the meal balanced yet exciting. Think light couscous salad, garlic butter rice, or a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or grilled vegetables also pair wonderfully, extending the smoky, fresh flavors throughout your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the kebabs deconstructed on a platter accompanied by small bowls of various dipping sauces like garlic aioli, tzatziki, or a spicy harissa. You can also create a Mediterranean-inspired feast by arranging the kebabs alongside pita bread, hummus, and tabbouleh for a shareable, vibrant meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the cheese coating intact might soften a little, but reheated kebabs still make an excellent quick meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the marinated chicken cubes before grilling to save time on busy days. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling and grilling.
Reheating
Reheat leftover kebabs gently in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery, and you want to keep the juicy, tender texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe because they are naturally juicier and can handle grilling well. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
Do I need to soak the wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading your ingredients helps prevent them from burning on the grill, keeping your kebabs safe and intact.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Definitely! You can cook the kebabs under the broiler or on a grill pan indoors. Just watch closely to avoid burning, and turn them frequently to ensure they cook evenly.
How important is the Parmesan cheese in the marinade?
Parmesan cheese is a star ingredient in this recipe. It adds a lovely salty, cheesy flavor and helps create a slightly crispy exterior once grilled. Freshly grated Parmesan yields the best results.
Can I prepare the kebabs ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in advance and assemble the kebabs shortly before grilling. This helps maintain the integrity of the vegetables while allowing the chicken to absorb maximum flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe has everything you want for a crowd-pleasing, home-cooked meal that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. The perfect blend of juicy chicken, robust garlic, sharp Parmesan, and vibrant veggies will keep you coming back for more. So fire up your grill or heat your pan and get ready to create one of the most delicious kebab experiences you’ve ever had. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs featuring marinated chicken cubes with fresh vegetables, grilled to perfection with a savory parmesan coating. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ, offering a delightful blend of garlic, herbs, and lemon with the rich taste of parmesan cheese.
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
- Prepare the marinade: 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 to allow flavors to infuse.
- Cut the vegetables: Cut the bell pepper and red onion into chunks roughly the same size as the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking on the skewers.
- Assemble the kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetable chunks onto skewers, alternating between chicken pieces and veggies for a balanced flavor and appealing presentation.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Grill the kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baste occasionally with the leftover marinade for extra flavor and moisture.
- Finish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the kebabs with additional parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley and optional lemon zest. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs!
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- The marinade can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- For an indoor cooking option, these kebabs can be broiled or cooked on a stovetop grill pan.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper levels.
