Looking for a simple yet delicious way to elevate your chicken game? These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers deliver juicy, tender bites packed with creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The marinade combines ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, garlic, and a hint of lemon to create an irresistible coating that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful whether you grill, bake, or air fry.
Perfect for summer cookouts, quick dinners, or meal prepping, these skewers are easy to customize and crowd-pleasing. Let’s dive into making this tasty and satisfying dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick marinade: Ready in minutes with common ingredients.
- Juicy, flavorful chicken: The ranch and parmesan combo is a winning pair.
- Versatile cooking: Grill, bake, or air fry.
- Perfect for entertaining: Easy to serve and enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, adds extra brightness)
For the Skewers:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
Ingredient Highlights
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy, tangy base that tenderizes and flavors.
- Garlic and Parmesan: Create a savory depth that complements grilled chicken perfectly.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade penetrate.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the richness (optional but recommended).
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine ranch dressing, grated Parmesan, olive oil, minced garlic, dried parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using). Whisk until fully mixed.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Thread the cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Skewers
Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has nice grill marks.
Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange skewers in a single layer and cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Add a side of ranch or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Great as a protein-packed addition to salads or wraps.
Tips for Best Results
- Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t over-marinate to avoid a mushy texture — 2–4 hours is ideal.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking.
Q2: Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Thread skewers just before cooking.
Q3: How do I avoid the chicken sticking to the grill?
Oil the grill grates before cooking and make sure the chicken isn’t wet on the surface before placing on the grill.
Q4: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, marinate and freeze chicken cubes in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
Q5: What sides go well with these skewers?
Roasted veggies, garlic mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad are great complements.
Print
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Flavorful & Easy Grilled Perfection
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are tender, juicy chicken cubes marinated in a creamy ranch and Parmesan mixture, then grilled or baked to perfection for a flavorful and easy meal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for extra tang)
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Try adding chopped bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra color and taste.
- Great for BBQs, meal prep, or quick dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an easy, flavorful way to enjoy juicy grilled chicken with a creamy, savory marinade. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, looking for quick dinner ideas, or prepping meals ahead, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give them a try and savor the perfect balance of ranch creaminess, Parmesan tang, and garlicky goodness!