Nothing beats the smell of garlic sizzling in hot oil, filling the air with memories of neighborhood barbecues and warm summer nights. These garlic Parmesan chicken skewers are a tribute to that classic warmth, but with a twist — a drizzle of fresh herbs and a hint of citrus to brighten every bite.
Cooking these skewers feels almost meditative; the way the garlic releases its aroma as it hits the pan, and the skewers turn golden with each turn of the spatula. It’s the kind of dish that demands your attention without rushing — a perfect way to slow down and savor a moment.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- It’s simple but feels like a celebration of flavors—garlic, Parmesan, and herbs dance on your tongue.
- That crispy coating on the chicken makes every bite satisfying, like a tiny crunch festival.
- Cooking outdoors or indoors, it’s always a hit, especially when everyone gets to pick their own skewers.
- The aroma of garlic and grilled chicken sparks nostalgia for family weekends and summer cookouts.
- Nothing beats the joy of grabbing a skewer, the juice dripping down your fingers, feeling connected to the food.
As the seasons shift, this dish feels especially right. It captures the essence of outdoor gatherings, even if you’re just in your backyard or balcony. The familiar, comforting scents and textures remind us to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and good company.
Whether served as a main or appetizer, these skewers have a way of bringing people together. A splash of lemon right at the end livens up the savory richness, making each bite a reminder of sunny days and fleeting moments that matter.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, tossing well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors absorb.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, about 4-5 pieces per skewer, leaving space for turning.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot, hearing a slight sizzle when a test piece is placed on it.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning until each side is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving plate and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Squeeze fresh lemon over the skewers to add bright flavor and serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Notes
This recipe is more than just a quick meal; it’s a reminder of the small, meaningful pleasures in everyday life. The crackle of the chicken skin and the tang of Parmesan linger long after the last bite.
Pulling these skewers from the grill or oven feels like a small victory—an easy way to create something memorable amid busy days. Celebrate the simple beauty of good ingredients, cooked well and shared often.
Hi, I’m Theo Granger, a former line cook and unapologetic flavor maximalist from New Orleans. I believe there are two types of people in this world: those who season their food, and those who LIVE to season their food. This blog is for the latter.
