These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with ranch marinade are a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender grilled chicken with the creamy richness of ranch dressing, garlic, and parmesan. Whether you’re preparing them for a quick weeknight dinner, a BBQ gathering, or a fun appetizer, these skewers are sure to be a hit. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, they provide a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy. The smoky grill adds a fantastic depth that complements the creamy, savory marinade.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Ranch Marinade

I recall the first time I made these at a family gathering. As the chicken sizzled on the grill, the delightful aroma of ranch, garlic, and parmesan filled the air, and it immediately became a crowd favorite. These skewers are versatile – serve them as a light appetizer, over a salad, or as the main dish. You can even adjust the flavors, adding more garlic, fresh herbs, or a bit of extra parmesan to suit your taste.

The best part? They are incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of basic ingredients like chicken, ranch dressing, garlic, and parmesan, you can assemble these skewers in no time and grill them to perfection. Whether it’s a BBQ or a craving for something delicious, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will satisfy!

Perfect For:

Casual BBQs
Quick weeknight dinners
Family gatherings
Grilling enthusiasts
Ranch dressing lovers

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:

Rich Flavor: The ranch, garlic, and parmesan combination infuses the chicken with savory goodness.
Perfectly Grilled: Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the marinade beautifully.
Simple Prep: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning by adding extra garlic or herbs to match your flavor preferences.
Kid-Friendly: These skewers are perfect for families, loved by both adults and kids alike.

Preparation & Cooking Details:

Total Time: 45 minutes (including marination)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Grill Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per Serving: 300-350
Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)

For the Skewers:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if wooden)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a bowl, mix together ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, parsley, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken cubes in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.

3. Prepare the Skewers:

Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Grill the Chicken:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The outside should have a nice char.

5. Serve and Garnish:

Remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or parmesan if desired. Serve with your favorite side dishes or dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or a tangy yogurt dip.

How to Serve:

With Veggies: Pair with grilled vegetables like peppers, zucchini, or onions for a complete meal.
On a Salad: Add to a fresh salad for a light, satisfying dish.
With Rice or Potatoes: Serve over rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.
As an Appetizer: Perfect for gatherings as a finger food or snack.
With Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a spicy dip for extra flavor.

Additional Tips:

Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: If you prefer tender, juicy skewers, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to intensify.
Customize the Seasonings: Add extra garlic, rosemary, or thyme to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.
Grill Marks: To get perfect grill marks, don’t move the skewers around too much while grilling.

Recipe Variations:

Spicy Garlic Parmesan Skewers: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Lemon Herb Skewers: Use fresh lemon zest and herbs like thyme or oregano for a fresh twist.
BBQ Garlic Parmesan Skewers: Brush with BBQ sauce in the final grilling minutes for a smoky flavor.
Honey Mustard Garlic Parmesan Skewers: Substitute the ranch dressing with honey mustard for a sweet and tangy version.
Bacon-Wrapped Skewers: Wrap the chicken in turkey bacon before grilling for extra crunch and flavor.
Mediterranean Skewers: Incorporate olives, feta cheese, and lemon juice into the marinade for a Mediterranean flair.
Vegetarian Skewers: Swap chicken for tofu or veggie cubes like mushrooms and zucchini for a plant-based option.
Crispy Skewers: Coat marinated chicken in breadcrumbs or panko before grilling for a crispy exterior.
Garlic Butter Skewers: Use garlic butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.

Freezing & Storing:

Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
Storage: Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet to keep them flavorful.

Equipment Needed:

Grill or grill pan
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish for marinating

FAQ:

Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, marinate and skewer the chicken beforehand, then grill when you’re ready to cook.
Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, a grill pan works great on the stove.
Can I use chicken drumsticks instead of cubed chicken?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I check if the chicken is fully cooked?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I use a different dressing for the marinade?
While ranch is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other dressings like blue cheese or Caesar.

Conclusion:

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with a creamy ranch marinade are an easy yet flavorful dish that delivers smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re grilling for a party, a family dinner, or a casual meal, these skewers are sure to impress.

Serve them on their own or with your favorite sides and dipping sauces for the ultimate flavorful experience. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these skewers are a must-try recipe for any occasion!

I’d love to see how your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers turn out! Share a photo on social media and tag me — I can’t wait to see your creations! Enjoy!