Introduction
Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the succulent taste of chicken with the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. The tender chicken pieces are marinated in a savory blend of herbs and spices, then coated with Parmesan cheese and grilled to perfection. The result is a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your guests. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers from scratch, including the ingredients, steps, variations, tips, and frequently asked questions. So let’s get started!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon of dried basil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Steps
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix well to create a marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan coating
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that the cheese is evenly seasoned.
Step 3: Skewer the chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. This will allow the chicken to cook evenly on all sides.
Step 4: Grill the skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese coating is golden brown and crispy. Make sure to turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once the skewers are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. They can be enjoyed on their own as a main course or served with a side of pasta or a fresh garden salad.
Variations
There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste:
– Instead of chicken breasts, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result.
– Add a kick of heat by sprinkling some red pepper flakes into the marinade.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Try adding dried thyme, rosemary, or even a hint of smoked paprika.
– If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the skewers in the oven. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results with your Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers:
– Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop. For an even more intense flavor, marinate overnight.
– Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling will prevent them from burning on the grill.
– For extra cheesy goodness, you can sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese over the skewers during the last few minutes of grilling.
– Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave a small space between each piece of chicken to ensure even cooking.
– Always use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Conclusion
Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken and savory Parmesan cheese. With the right combination of herbs and spices, these skewers are bursting with flavor and will be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. So fire up the grill, prepare the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite.
FAQs
1. Can I use grated Parmesan cheese instead of shredded?
Yes, you can use grated Parmesan cheese instead of shredded. Just make sure it is finely grated to ensure an even coating on the chicken.
2. Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders will work just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may cook slightly faster than chicken breasts.
3. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
While these skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can marinate the chicken in advance and thread them onto the skewers right before grilling. This will save you time on the day of your gathering.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Once the skewers have cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in a preheated oven or grill until heated through.
Italian Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Delicious and flavorful chicken skewers marinated in herbs, coated with Parmesan cheese, and grilled to perfection. A perfect dish for family dinners or barbecues.
Ingredients
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1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon dried oregano
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1 tablespoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 cup olive oil
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Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Directions
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In a bowl, combine garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and olive oil to make the marinade. Add chicken, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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Combine grated Parmesan cheese with salt and pepper in a separate bowl.
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Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, leaving space between each piece.
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Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side until chicken is cooked through and cheese coating is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
