Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a tasty, breezy way to enjoy juicy chicken loaded with flavorful garlic and rich parmesan cheese. The creamy ranch seasoning blends perfectly with the savory chicken, making each bite super satisfying and full of zest. These skewers are great for grilling or baking, giving you that delightful golden-brown crust and tender inside every time.
I love making these skewers for weekend cookouts or quick weeknight dinners because they come together so easily and always get the thumbs up from everyone at the table. A little tip from me: let the chicken marinate a bit to soak up all the ranch and parmesan goodness before cooking—it really makes the flavors pop. Plus, the garlic gives it just the right kick without being overpowering.
My favorite way to serve these is alongside a simple salad or some roasted veggies for a colorful, healthy meal. They’re also fantastic with a side of crusty bread to mop up any leftover cheesy ranch sauce. Whenever I bring these to gatherings, they’re usually the first to disappear, and I find myself planning the next time I can make them again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay juicy. For a richer flavor, you can also try chicken thighs—they’re more forgiving and stay tender.
Ranch Dressing: This adds a creamy, herby base for the marinade. If you want to avoid dairy or store-bought dressings, mix plain yogurt with garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper as a quick substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor here. If you’re short on time or want a milder taste, garlic powder works well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a nice bite. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good stand-in with a sharper taste.
Wooden Skewers: Soaking them prevents burning. If you’re in a rush, metal skewers are reusable and heat quickly, but be careful when handling as they get hot.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Cook Evenly?
Cooking chicken skewers evenly and keeping them juicy can be tricky, but here are some helpful tips:
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces: About 1-inch cubes cook evenly and stay tender.
- Marinate: Let the chicken soak in the ranch garlic mixture for at least 30 minutes to lock in flavor and moisture.
- Preheat the grill or pan: Medium-high heat helps form a nice crust without drying out the chicken.
- Space pieces on skewers: Leave a little room between chunks so heat circulates and cooks the chicken evenly.
- Turn once: Flip the skewers halfway through cooking (4-5 minutes per side) to get even grill marks.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is safe and ensures juicy chicken.
Sprinkle cheese right after cooking so it melts slightly from the heat. These steps help you get tender, flavorful, perfectly cooked skewers every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I recommend this because it adds a nice char and smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes) – prevents burning and keeps the skewers intact during grilling.
- Mixing bowls – for marinating the chicken and tossing in the ranch garlic mixture.
- Tongs or grilling fork – helpful for turning the skewers safely and evenly on the grill.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more forgiving meat that stays tender.
- Add chopped herbs like chives or parsley in the marinade for extra freshness and color.
- Mix in some cooked bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory boost and texture.
- Swap Parmesan for shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (to prevent burning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active prep time plus at least 30 minutes of marinating to let the flavors soak in. Grilling will take around 10 minutes. Overall, expect about 45 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried parsley until well combined. Add the chicken cubes and toss them in the marinade until every piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes—this helps the chicken soak up all those tasty flavors.
2. Prepare the Skewers and Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each cube so they cook evenly. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Turn once so both sides get a nice golden-brown color and grill marks. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Add Parmesan and Serve:
Take the skewers off the grill and immediately sprinkle them generously with the grated Parmesan cheese while they’re still hot so it melts slightly. Garnish with a pinch of dried or fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve these delicious skewers hot, alongside your favorite salad, grilled veggies, or dipping sauce. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by placing the sealed chicken in cold water until thawed. This helps the marinade penetrate and ensures even cooking.
Can I Bake the Skewers Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Finish under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get that nice golden color.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken juicy and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Use Other Cheeses Besides Parmesan?
Sure! While Parmesan gives a classic flavor and texture, you can swap with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even shredded mozzarella for a milder, melty option. Just adjust quantities to your liking.
