Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an amazing way to elevate your grilling game. This delectable dish perfectly balances the tangy flavor of ranch, the robust taste of garlic, and the savory richness of Parmesan cheese. These skewers are not only easy to prepare, but they also make for a great reason to gather friends and family around the grill. They’re perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or simply indulging in a tasty treat any day of the week.
If you’re wondering what makes these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers so special, look no further. The delightful combination of ranch dressing, garlic, and Parmesan cheese marinades the chicken, infusing it with flavor. Each bite offers a succulent and savory experience that’s impossible to resist. With the perfect amount of seasoning and nail-biting flavor, these skewers cater to both adults and kids alike, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about this recipe, from preparation to serving suggestions.
Let’s dive into the world of Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers and discover why they deserve a spot on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers bring a range of flavors and textures to your plate. Here’s why you will absolutely love this recipe:
1. Flavor Explosion: The marriage of ranch, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates an unforgettable flavor combination.
2. Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
3. Grill or Oven: Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, this recipe adapts perfectly to both methods.
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike rave about these savory skewers, making them a hit at any gathering.
5. Versatile Marinade: The ranch marinade works well with other proteins and vegetables, allowing for creativity.
6. Perfect for Meal Prep: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making this an excellent choice for meal planning.
With these incredible qualities, it’s no wonder Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers have become a favorite among home cooks.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Making Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is efficient, allowing you to whip up a delightful meal in no time. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes (including marinating)
– Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
These times may vary depending on your experience and kitchen setup, but this should give you a solid framework.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– ½ cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating delicious Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine ranch dressing, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stronger flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill/Oven: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan: Once the skewers are assembled, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
7. Cook the Skewers:
– For Grill: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
– For Oven: Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through.
8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve
To enhance your experience with Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, consider these serving suggestions:
1. Plating: Arrange the skewers on a platter for an attractive presentation. Garnish with parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Dipping Sauces: Pair with extra ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
3. Side Dishes: Serve alongside fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even garlic bread for a complete meal.
4. Beverage Pairings: These skewers pair wonderfully with light, refreshing beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or even a chilled white wine.
5. Family Style: Allow guests to serve themselves, creating a relaxed and casual dining experience.
With these serving tips, Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will be the star of your next meal gathering!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese.
– Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Ensure there’s a little space between chicken pieces for uniform cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents steaming.
– Keep an Eye on the Cooking Time: Since chicken pieces are cut into cubes, they cook relatively fast. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
– Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an extra flavor boost.
– Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the skewers hot off the grill or out of the oven. They’re most flavorful when fresh.
Recipe Variation
Spice up your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with these variations:
1. Vegetable Skewers: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the skewers for a colorful and nutritious twist.
2. Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
3. Zesty Marinade: Incorporate lime juice or hot sauce into the marinade for a zesty kick.
4. Herbed Parmesan: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro into the Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
5. Buffalo Variation: Add a splash of buffalo sauce to the ranch marinade for a spicy version.
Freezing and Storage
– Refrigeration: Keep any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best results.
– Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken skewers before cooking them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic and then stored in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
– Thawing: When ready to use, thaw the skewers overnight in the fridge. The chicken will absorb more marinade during this time.
Special Equipment
To prepare your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you will need the following tools:
– Skewers: Use bamboo or metal skewers for grilling. If using bamboo, soak in water to minimize burning.
– Grilling or Baking Tray: A grilling basket or baking sheet is ideal for cooking.
– Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through.
– Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade and for coating the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful skewers.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers if desired, then store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What can I serve with Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
They pair well with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Are these skewers suitable for outdoor grilling?
Yes, these skewers are perfect for outdoor grilling! They are easy to make and great for summer barbecues.
Conclusion
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a must-have for any grilling occasion, combining simplicity with flavor. Their irresistible taste and adaptability make them a perfect dish for any meal gathering. With the ease of preparation and the ability to cater to various dietary preferences, these skewers are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you grill them for a summer barbecue or bake them for a cozy family dinner, these skewers guarantee a delicious dining experience.
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 54 minute
Ingredients
– 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– ½ cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
Creating delicious Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine ranch dressing, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stronger flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill/Oven: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan: Once the skewers are assembled, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
7. Cook the Skewers:
– For Grill: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
– For Oven: Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through.
8. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 skewers
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g