Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are just what you need! They’re super easy to whip up, and the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan give them a delightful twist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout with friends, these skewers fit perfectly into any occasion.

I love how versatile this recipe is. You can make them in an air fryer, oven, or on the grill, so no matter the weather or your kitchen setup, you can enjoy these tasty chicken skewers. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the savory taste of ranch and garlic combined with tender chicken.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Choose between air frying, baking, or grilling based on what you prefer or have available!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time to save even more time when you’re ready to cook.
• Flavor-Packed: The garlic Parmesan sauce adds an irresistible richness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that probably are already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

For the Chicken Skewers

• 2 lbs chicken tenders (or thighs/breasts, cut into 3-inch pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 tbsp dry ranch seasoning
• 1 tsp dried dill
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 8 garlic cloves (minced)
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 0.33 cup fresh parsley (minced)
• 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning (for sauce)
• 1 tsp dried dill (for sauce)
• 0.5 tsp onion powder (for sauce)

Variations

One of the best things about Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is how flexible they are! Feel free to customize them based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or cubed tofu for a different spin on this dish.
• Add veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be added to the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re a fan of other cheeses, substitute feta or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes.

How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Soak Your Skewers

Begin by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it prevents them from burning during cooking. While they soak, you can prepare your chicken and marinade!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, mix together dry ranch seasoning, dill, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Adding olive oil helps these spices stick beautifully to your chicken pieces. Toss everything together until each piece is well coated—this is where all that flavor starts!

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Carefully thread your marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers. Make sure to keep them tightly packed but not overcrowded; minimal gaps help ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make That Delicious Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt your butter gently. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes should do it! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with hot sauce and red pepper flakes for some kick. Combine everything well so every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 5: Reserve Sauce for Basting

Now that your sauce is ready, reserve about two-thirds of it for basting later on. Use the remaining one-third during cooking to enhance those beautiful flavors even more.

Step 6: Cook Your Skewers

Depending on your cooking method:
– For Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F and cook skewers in batches for about 5-6 minutes total.
– For Oven: Preheat to 450°F; bake them on a foil-lined sheet while basting periodically.
– For Grill: Get that grill nice and hot! Grill each side for roughly 5-6 minutes while basting with sauce.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Once cooked through (internal temp at least 165°F), drizzle with reserved garlic Parmesan sauce! A sprinkle of extra grated cheese and fresh parsley makes it look as good as it tastes—serve immediately while hot!

Enjoy these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers at your next meal—they’re bound to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Creating the perfect Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll impress everyone at your table!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor profile of the sauce, providing a stronger and more aromatic taste compared to garlic powder.

• Marinate longer if possible: For even more flavor, let the chicken marinate in the ranch seasoning mix for an hour or overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken.

• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: When threading the chicken onto skewers, make sure to leave some space between pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the heat to circulate properly.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to customize the hot sauce and red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. This way, you can tailor each batch to suit your family’s taste buds.

• Let them rest before serving: After cooking, allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture for juicy bites that everyone will love.

How to Serve Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Presenting your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers beautifully can turn a simple meal into a memorable feast! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish when serving.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top for a burst of color and mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Extra Parmesan: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a rich, savory finish that will entice everyone.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests who enjoy a zesty kick that brightens up the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus in olive oil and roast until crispy. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory chicken skewers.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent comfort side that balances out the richness of the chicken skewers while adding a classic touch.

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty skewers and keeps things light.

• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with diced vegetables and a citrus dressing is not only nutritious but also adds texture and flavor that complements your main dish perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will be an absolute hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only quick to prepare but also make for fantastic meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skewers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can use the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders for Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts cut into 3-inch pieces work wonderfully. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes in the garlic Parmesan sauce. Adjust based on your personal taste!

Can I grill these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Yes, grilling is a great option! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook as directed to achieve that lovely charred flavor.

What can I serve with Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even a creamy pasta dish for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers! They are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun weekend barbecue. The incredible flavors will surely impress your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s easier than you think! Happy cooking!