Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty mix of juicy chicken pieces soaked in a flavorful ranch marinade, rubbed with garlic, and coated with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. These skewers have a great balance of creamy, garlicky, and cheesy flavors, all coming together in bite-sized pieces that are easy to enjoy at any gathering or dinner.
I love making these skewers whenever friends come over because they’re super simple to prepare but always get rave reviews. I usually marinate the chicken ahead of time, so the flavors really sink in, and then I grill or bake them until they’re perfectly cooked with a little crisp on the outside. The garlic and parmesan give them a special touch that makes everyone ask for seconds.
One of my favorite ways to serve these skewers is with a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies on the side. They also go great with a little extra ranch dressing for dipping. These skewers bring a bit of fun to the table, and they’re perfect for enjoying outside on a sunny day or as an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless breasts or thighs works well. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while breasts cook a bit leaner. If you want less fat, choose breasts.
Ranch Dressing: This is the base for your marinade. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste. For a dairy-free option, try a ranch-style dressing made from vegan mayo and herbs.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor here. Minced garlic blends well into the marinade. You can substitute garlic powder if needed but fresh is worth the extra step.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty finish. For a different twist, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago. To keep it dairy-free, leave the cheese out and add extra herbs and spices for flavor.
How Can I Keep the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful on Skewers?
Marinating and cooking chicken properly are key to juicy skewers. Here’s how to do it:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is even better to absorb flavor.
- Cut pieces evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Leave a little space between pieces on the skewers to allow heat circulation.
- Grill or broil on medium-high heat to get a good sear without drying out.
- Cook about 5-7 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Add Parmesan cheese near the end so it melts and browns lightly without burning.
Following these tips helps every bite stay tender and packed with flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skewers (wooden or metal) – Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning, and metal ones are reusable for future meals.
- Grill or grill pan – Ideal for getting those nice char marks and smoky flavor. You can also broil in your oven if preferred.
- Mixing bowls – Use a large bowl for marinating the chicken and smaller bowls for preparing ingredients.
- Measuring spoons and cups – For accurate measurement of marinade ingredients and cheese.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey pieces for different protein options that cook quickly on skewers.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or chives for a fresh flavor boost.
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for more color and texture.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or serve with a hot sauce alongside.
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1- to 1.5-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to 2 hours to marinate the chicken. Cooking on the grill or under the broiler takes about 10-15 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend around 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the ranch dressing, minced garlic, olive oil, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined to create a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cut chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them around so each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in your refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 1 to 2 hours.
3. Prepare and Cook the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, preheat your oven’s broiler. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked or metal skewers, leaving a little space between the pieces to help them cook evenly. Grill or broil the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, checking that it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Add Parmesan Cheese and Finish Cooking:
During the last minute of cooking, generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken on the skewers. Let it melt and get a little golden, creating a deliciously cheesy crust.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the chicken skewers off the heat and sprinkle with a bit of fresh parsley for a beautiful garnish. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, green salad, grilled veggies, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. This helps the chicken absorb the flavors better and cook evenly.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, thread and cook the skewers as directed for fresh, flavorful results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I Substitute Ranch Dressing?
Yes, you can swap ranch for a Greek yogurt-based dressing or a mix of mayo and herbs if you prefer. Just keep the flavor profile similar to maintain that creamy, tangy taste.
