There’s something heartwarming about chicken sizzling on the grill, the sweet scent of ranch mingling with garlic and Parmesan, and the gentle hum of family conversations drifting in the evening air. These Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are that kind of recipe—comforting without being complicated, flavorful yet familiar. With pantry staples and a few simple steps, you can create a meal that tastes special and feels like home.
Recipe Info:
| Category | Dinner (Grilled Skewers) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes (grilling) |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories | ~325 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For the Skewers:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden or metal skewers
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Mix the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together ranch, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using).
- Marinate the chicken. Add the chicken cubes, toss to coat, cover, and let marinate 15 minutes to 4 hours for extra flavor.
- Prep the skewers. Thread the chicken tightly onto skewers so they cook evenly.
- Preheat the grill. Set to medium-high heat (around 400 °F), and grease the grates lightly so nothing sticks.
- Grill the skewers. Cook the chicken for about 8–10 minutes, turning often and basting with leftover marinade if you like. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F and the exterior is golden.
- Rest and serve. Remove skewers, brush with any extra garlic-Parmesan goodness, and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcook! Keep an eye on temperature—165 °F internal ensures juicy, tender chicken.
- Customize the flavor. More garlic for boldness, extra Parmesan for richness, or a splash more lemon juice for brightness—make it your own.
- Make ahead. Marinate chicken and skewer it ahead of time; just grill when ready.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Skewers: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Lemon Herb Variation: Stir in lemon zest and fresh thyme or oregano for a lighter, herbaceous twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for hearty cubes of tofu or a medley of mushrooms and bell peppers—same marinade, same crowd-pleasing result.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled veggies—think zucchini, bell peppers, or corn—for a colorful, balanced plate.
- A simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette adds a refreshing counterpoint.
- For a heartier meal, scoop the chicken over rice, couscous, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Offer extra ranch dressing or a tangy sriracha mayo on the side for dipping.
conclusion
There it is—Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, the kind of laid-back, cozy dish that brings people together without fuss. Whether you’re flipping these over the grill for a backyard dinner or threading them for a cozy indoor meal, they promise flavor, warmth, and smiles. Gather around, share a few stories, and enjoy every last juicy, cheesy bite with loved ones.