Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful fusion of creamy ranch, robust garlic, and savory parmesan, all enveloping tender grilled chicken. This dish is a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of flavors ensures a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe irresistible for several reasons:

Flavorful Marinade: The creamy ranch dressing, combined with garlic and parmesan, infuses the chicken with a rich and tangy flavor.
Perfectly Grilled: Grilling the skewers imparts a smoky char that complements the creamy marinade beautifully.
Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, I can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Versatile: Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or over a salad, these skewers fit any occasion.
Family-Friendly: The flavors appeal to both adults and kids, making it a hit at family gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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 fresh parsley, chopped)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for extra tang)

For the Skewers:

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, I mix together the ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using) until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: I place the cubed chicken into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Then, I seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Prepare the Skewers: If I’m using wooden skewers, I soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning. Then, I thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the Skewers: I preheat my grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, I place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Grilling Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes (excluding extended marinating time)

Variations

Spicy Kick: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.
Herbaceous Twist: Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary enhances the flavor profile.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkling additional parmesan over the skewers during the last few minutes of grilling creates a cheesy crust.
Citrus Zing: Adding more lemon juice or zest brightens the overall taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwaving for 1-2 minutes works in a pinch.

FAQs

How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

I ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the skewers. Also, I avoid moving the skewers too soon; letting them sear properly helps prevent sticking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While parmesan adds a distinct flavor, I sometimes substitute with asiago or romano for a different taste.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken. I find that even a 30-minute marinade makes a noticeable difference.

Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

Yes, I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

What sides pair well with these skewers?

I often serve them with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or rice pilaf to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that I love preparing for various occasions. The combination of creamy ranch, savory garlic, and rich parmesan creates a marinade that transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering delight. Whether grilled to perfection or baked in the oven, these skewers are sure to impress family and friends alike.