Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple and tasty way to enjoy juicy chicken packed with flavor. These skewers combine the creamy, herby taste of ranch dressing with the rich, cheesy goodness of parmesan and a little punch of garlic. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory and fresh that’s hard to resist.
I love making these skewers when I want something quick but still feel like I’m having a special meal. The garlic and parmesan make the chicken extra delicious without needing a lot of effort. One of my favorite parts is how easy it is to toss everything together and let the flavors soak in before grilling or baking.
These skewers are great to serve at backyard barbecues or just for a casual family dinner. I like pairing them with a crisp salad or some roasted veggies for a complete meal. They’re also perfect for dipping in extra ranch sauce if you’re like me and can’t get enough of that creamy, tangy flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean and tender meat, but thighs work great too if you prefer juicier bites.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch adds creamy, herby flavor. You can use a store-bought dressing or make your own to control ingredients and freshness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts nicely and adds nuttiness. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good, sharp substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives bright, bold flavor. Garlic powder can work in a pinch but fresh really makes a difference.
Herbs & Seasoning: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If you don’t have fresh, dried parsley works fine. Italian seasoning is a simple way to add balanced herbs.
How Do I Get Juicy, Flavorful Chicken on Skewers?
Marinating chicken is key to juicy, tasty skewers. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
- Cut chicken into even pieces so they cook uniformly on the grill.
- Mix ranch, Parmesan, garlic, herbs, and oil well to coat every piece.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb flavors; 1-2 hours is even better.
- Soak wooden skewers in water before threading to prevent burning.
- Grill on medium-high heat and turn often for even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken hits 165°F — this keeps it safe and juicy.
Following these steps helps you get tender chicken skewers with fresh, bold flavors every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I like using a grill for those perfect char marks and smoky flavor.
- Mixing bowl – to toss the chicken with the marinade easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Wooden skewers – soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cooking thermometer – to check when the chicken is fully cooked and safe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap out ranch dressing for BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet twist.
- Add chopped bell peppers or onions on the skewers for extra color and flavor.
- Use shredded mozzarella or string cheese topping instead of Parmesan for melty goodness.
- Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for some spice and depth.
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, and approximately 10 minutes to cook the skewers. So in total, plan for about 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade and Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and combined. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in and makes the chicken extra tasty.
2. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
After marinating, take your soaked wooden skewers and carefully thread the chicken pieces onto them. Leave a little space between each piece to make sure they cook evenly and get nice grill marks.
3. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side. Turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get a nice golden-brown color. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s juicy and fully cooked.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, you can sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan and fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and color. Serve the skewers hot, with some extra ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. These are great for a quick dinner or gathering — enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and marinating. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is enough for good flavor, but if you have time, letting it sit for 1-2 hours in the fridge really enhances the taste and tenderness.
Can I Bake the Skewers Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm them gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
