Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

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These garlic parmesan chicken skewers are the kind of easy, showstopping dish you’ll reach for again and again. Tender chicken threaded onto skewers cooks quickly and soaks up a buttery, garlicky parmesan sauce that glistens with fresh parsley and a touch of heat. They work for casual weeknight dinners, backyard gatherings, or a protein-packed snack for entertaining. If you love saucy chicken bites, try pairing this idea with a creamy pasta or hearty meatloaf from our collection for inspiration like this garlic butter chicken bites recipe.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create big flavor with minimal fuss. Chicken tenders, thighs, or breasts all take well to the garlicky parmesan butter so you can use whatever you have on hand. Skewering speeds up cooking and gives those edges a lovely caramelized finish whether you grill, broil, or pan-sear them. The sauce doubles as a finishing glaze and a dip so every bite stays saucy and satisfying. It’s flexible for spice level and side dishes, and it makes a beautiful platter for guests or family meals.

Flavor and Texture

Imagine juicy chicken with crisped edges, brushed in a glossy butter sauce studded with minced garlic and nutty grated parmesan. Paprika and red pepper flakes add a warm background note while hot sauce gives a bright, vinegary lift if you want extra kick. Fresh parsley brings a clean herbal contrast that lightens the richness. The contrast of tender interior and slightly charred exterior makes each skewer bite both comforting and exciting. For more ways to marry garlic and parmesan in a weeknight meal, see this garlic parmesan chicken meatloaf idea for inspiration.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs or breast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 stick butter
8-10 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup parmesan, grated
1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Step by Step Instructions

Prep and skewer chicken.
Make the garlic parmesan butter sauce.
Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through.

Tips for Best Results

Trim excess fat and cut larger pieces into uniform sizes so every skewer cooks evenly. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Don’t overcrowd the pan or grill; give skewers space so heat circulates and edges can crisp. Reserve some sauce to brush on at the end for maximum glossy flavor and toss any extra with cooked rice or pasta. Taste and adjust heat with extra hot sauce or red pepper flakes incrementally so you don’t overpower the parmesan and butter.

Storage and Make Ahead

Let cooked skewers cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep leftover sauce separate to preserve texture; gently rewarm the sauce and brush on reheated chicken to revive that fresh finish. For a meal-prep option, cook chicken and store skewers over a bed of grains or salad greens for quick lunches. To freeze, place skewers on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months and reheat gently from frozen.

Final Thought

These skewers are a simple way to turn everyday chicken into something memorable without a long ingredient list. The garlic parmesan butter is the real showstopper, clinging to every bite and delivering rich, savory comfort. Serve with lemon wedges, a crisp salad, or your favorite grain for a complete, colorful meal.

Conclusion

For an extra-tested version and alternate technique ideas, check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Bad Batch Baking for helpful tips and variations.