Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Juicy. Flavor-packed. Crowd-approved. That’s exactly what you get with these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Imagine tender chunks of chicken marinated in creamy ranch dressing, infused with fresh garlic, sprinkled with parmesan cheese, and grilled (or baked) to perfection. Every bite is a burst of savory, cheesy goodness with just the right hint of tang.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver flavor without the fuss. The best part? You only need simple pantry ingredients and about 30 minutes from prep to plate.

I love making these when we have friends over because they’re easy to grab and eat, require minimal cleanup, and always get rave reviews. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile — you can grill, bake, or even air-fry them. Pair them with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or buttery garlic bread, and you’ve got a full meal everyone will love.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate ordinary chicken, this recipe is it. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to add these skewers to your rotation immediately.

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What Makes These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Special?

• Bursting with Flavor: Ranch dressing, garlic, and parmesan create an unbeatable savory combo.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to table.

• Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill, bake, or air-fry depending on your setup.

• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike — no fancy spices needed.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for BBQs, picnics, tailgates, or simple weeknight dinners.

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Ingredient Notes

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious skewers:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken works best. Thighs are juicier, but breasts cook faster.

• Ranch Dressing: Acts as the base of the marinade. Use homemade or store-bought.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for maximum flavor, but pre-grated works too.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings bold flavor. Substitute with garlic powder if needed.

• Olive Oil: Helps the chicken stay moist and prevents sticking on the grill.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika add balance.

• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.

Equipment needed:

• Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden ones in water for 20 minutes to avoid burning)

• Grill, oven, or air fryer

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How To Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut chicken into 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking. Pat dry to help the marinade stick better.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine ½ cup ranch dressing, 3 tablespoons grated parmesan, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread chicken pieces onto soaked skewers, leaving small gaps between chunks for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Skewers

• Grilling: Preheat grill to 400°F. Cook skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.

• Baking: Bake in a 425°F oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping once.

• Air Frying: Air fry at 380°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Once cooked, sprinkle with extra parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot!

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Not recommended for more than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.

• Low-Carb Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of ranch for a tangy, lighter version.

• Cheese Twist: Swap parmesan with asiago or pecorino for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

• Veggie Add-Ons: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skewers.

• Herby Boost: Mix in fresh dill, basil, or thyme for extra aroma.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

2. Can I bake instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping once halfway.

3. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking. Use a thermometer and aim for an internal temp of 165°F.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it fully before marinating to ensure even cooking.

5. Can I make these dairy-free?
Swap ranch with dairy-free dressing and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

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