These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty and fun way to enjoy juicy chicken with a cheesy twist. The chicken pieces are marinated in a flavorful ranch and garlic blend, then grilled to perfection and coated with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. The combination of creamy ranch, sharp parmesan, and garlicky goodness makes every bite really pop.
I love making these skewers when I want something simple but packed with flavor. The ranch and garlic marinade does all the work, so the chicken comes out tender and tasty every time. Plus, the parmesan adds a nice salty finish that makes them feel special without any extra effort. I usually let the chicken marinate for a few hours to soak up all those great flavors.
These skewers are perfect for a casual backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. I like to serve them with a side of fresh veggies or a crisp salad to balance out the cheesy chicken. They also make great finger food when friends are over, and I always get asked for the recipe. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless breasts for tender and lean meat. If you want juicier results, you can try chicken thighs instead—they stay moist and have more flavor.
Ranch Dressing: This adds creaminess and herbs. Store-bought works great, but homemade ranch brings a fresh taste. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with ranch seasoning.
Parmesan Cheese: The parmesan gives a salty, nutty boost. Freshly grated is best and melts nicely. If you don’t have parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs more flavor than powder. If in a rush, garlic powder works too but add less to avoid overpowering.
Wooden Skewers: Don’t forget to soak them in water before grilling! This keeps them from burning and breaking on the grill.
How Do You Get Juicy, Flavorful Chicken on Skewers?
Marinating the chicken is key. It not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat tender. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix ranch, garlic, olive oil, parmesan, and herbs well.
- Coat the chicken pieces evenly and refrigerate for 1-3 hours. The longer, the better for flavor.
- Thread chicken on skewers, leave a little space between pieces to cook evenly.
- Grill on medium-high heat, turning every 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
- Apply extra parmesan while hot for a cheesy finish.
Rest the chicken a few minutes before serving to let the juices settle. This helps keep every bite juicy and tasty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I recommend using a grill or grill pan to get those nice char marks and smoky flavor.
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the marinade ingredients and coating the chicken evenly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to measure out the dressing, cheese, and spices accurately.
- Soaked wooden skewers – soaking prevents burning on the grill and keeps your skewers intact.
- Tongs – helpful for turning the skewers safely on the grill without burning your fingers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try different cheeses like mozzarella or mozzarella chunks for a milder, gooey finish.
- Add chopped fresh herbs—such as basil or chives—for a fresh herbal boost.
- Swap ranch for Greek yogurt mixed with herbs or hot sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini chunks between chicken pieces for more veggie goodness.
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and thread the chicken onto skewers. You’ll need to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but 2-3 hours is best to let the flavors soak in. Grilling will take about 10 minutes. So, plan for roughly 1 hour 20 minutes total, including marinating and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the ranch dressing, minced garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together so the flavors blend nicely.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and stir well to coat all the pieces. Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. The longer you marinate (up to 3 hours), the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
Soak the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. When ready, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and carefully thread the pieces onto the soaked skewers. Leave a little bit of space between each piece to help the chicken cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side. Turn them occasionally to get a nice golden-brown char and to make sure the chicken cooks through completely.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and immediately sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the hot skewers. This adds an extra cheesy kick.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve the skewers hot. They’re great on their own or paired with a fresh salad, grilled veggies, or rice.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better grilling results.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch, try mixing Greek yogurt with garlic powder, dried herbs, and a little lemon juice for a similar creamy herb flavor. You can also use a bottled Caesar dressing or make a quick herb marinade with olive oil and spices.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Marinate the chicken and thread the skewers in advance, then cover and refrigerate. Grill them just before serving for the freshest flavor and best texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on a grill pan to keep the chicken tender and tasty.
