Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Introducting a Flavorful Delight

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a savory twist that brings the flavors of ranch dressing, garlic, and parmesan cheese together in a way that’s simply irresistible. This recipe isn’t just for gatherings; it’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or even quick meal prep on Sundays. The combination of marinated chicken grilled to perfection is a hit with adults and kids alike. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this on rotation in your meal plan!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to try Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. They’re quick to prep, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. Plus, who can resist that creamy ranch flavor paired with the nutty bite of parmesan? A bonus: they’re budget-friendly—most of these ingredients are pantry staples.

"These skewers are a game-changer at our family barbecues. The kids can’t get enough of them!" – Satisfied Customer

This dish shines not only in taste but also in versatility. You can serve it as an appetizer at parties or as a main course with sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. It’s a sure-fire way to bring everyone to the table!

The Cooking Process Explained

Preparing Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is straightforward and breaks down into a few simple steps. You’ll start by creating a flavorful marinade that deeply infuses the chicken. Next, sear those skewers on the grill, which gives them that perfect char while sealing in the moisture.

Here’s a quick overview:

1. Whip up the marinade.
2. Marinate the chicken.
3. Assemble the skewers.
4. Grill to juicy perfection.

It’s that easy!

What You’ll Need

Key Ingredients

• For the Marinade:

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

• For the Skewers:

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes prior to use)

Feel free to swap out certain ingredients if needed! For instance, you can use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing for a lighter spin, or opt for tofu for a vegetarian option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a sizable mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, dried parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place your cubed chicken into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Prepare the Skewers: Once marinated, take the chicken out and thread the pieces onto skewers—make sure to leave a bit of space between each cube. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them to prevent burning!

4. Grill the Skewers: Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, rotating occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Serve and Garnish: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped parsley or additional parmesan. Pair it with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

When it comes to serving Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, creativity is key! Consider plating them on a large serving platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a pop of color. They pair beautifully with grilled corn, a light summer salad, or even over a bed of rice for a more filling dish.

Dipping sauces like a homemade ranch, BBQ, or even tzatziki sauce make delightful accompaniments. Enjoy crafting your ideal meal around these skewers!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or on a grill until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken (before grilling) for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before grilling to maintain that juicy texture and flavor.

Tricks for Success

To take your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers to the next level, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate Longer: If you have time, letting the chicken soak in the marinade for closer to 2 hours will impart even deeper flavors.
• Don’t Crowd the Skewers: Spacing out the chicken pieces allows for even cooking and a better char.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures perfect doneness every time. It’s the best kitchen investment for grilling!

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few variations to try:

• Veggie Skewers: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into your marinade for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs—like thyme or basil—along with or instead of parsley for an aromatic twist.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The total prep time is roughly 45 minutes, including marinating time. You can speed this up by marinating for 30 minutes.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Feel free to use shrimp, salmon, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu.

Is it safe to refreeze marinated raw chicken?

It’s not recommended to refreeze marinated raw chicken after it’s been thawed, but you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure the ranch dressing and any additional sauces you use have no gluten ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for your next event, Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers deliver on flavor and ease. Happy grilling!

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

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A savory twist of ranch dressing, garlic, and parmesan cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional) For a fresh taste

For the Skewers

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes prior to use)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a sizable mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, dried parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
2. Place your cubed chicken into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Once marinated, take the chicken out and thread the pieces onto skewers—make sure to leave a bit of space between each cube.

Grilling

1. Heat your grill to medium-high.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, rotating occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped parsley or additional parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 500mgSugar: 1g

Notes

You can swap certain ingredients, like using Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing for a lighter spin, or opting for tofu for a vegetarian option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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