Name: Garlic Parmesan Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 packet ranch dressing mix; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Golden brown chicken skewers topped with melted parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on a white plate | lonerecipes.com

I discovered this recipe when I was trying to recreate a dish from my favorite sports bar. Their chicken skewers were legendary, but they closed down, leaving me craving that perfect combination of ranch and parmesan. After several attempts, I finally nailed it! The secret is using dry ranch mix instead of liquid dressing - it creates a much more intense flavor and helps the parmesan stick better. I love how the edges get those crispy, caramelized bits while the inside stays incredibly tender. The fresh garlic adds a punch that takes these from good to absolutely addictive. Every time I make them, I'm reminded of those fun nights at the sports bar, but now I can enjoy them anytime at home.

Why I love this recipe

I absolutely adore these Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers because they're the perfect example of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavor. There's something magical about how the ranch seasoning and parmesan cheese transform basic chicken into a gourmet appetizer. I love that they're versatile enough for both casual weeknight dinners and fancy parties. The prep is so easy - just cube, season, skewer, and cook! Plus, eating food on a stick is always more fun. The combination of crispy, cheesy exterior and juicy interior hits all the right notes. They're also great for meal prep - I often make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy them throughout the week.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Chicken breasts: Cut into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking
Ranch dressing mix: Coat thoroughly for maximum flavor penetration
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle during last 2 minutes to create crispy coating
Fresh garlic: Mince finely and mix with seasonings
Olive oil: Helps seasonings adhere and prevents sticking
Fresh parsley: Chop and use as garnish after cooking

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, making sure each piece is lightly coated.
Season the chicken: Mix your ranch packet with minced garlic and Italian herbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle this magical mixture over your chicken cubes and toss thoroughly. Every piece should be evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
Skewer assembly: Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each pre-soaked skewer, leaving a little space between pieces. This spacing allows heat to circulate and ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
Cook to perfection: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes. You want those beautiful char marks and golden-brown color on all sides.
Add the cheese: In the final 2 minutes, generously sprinkle parmesan over the skewers. Watch as it melts and creates that irresistible crispy, cheesy coating. Remove from heat and finish with fresh parsley.

Recipe picture — Delicious garlic parmesan chicken skewers with charred edges and melted cheese topping | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I'll never forget the first time I made these skewers for a backyard BBQ. I was running late and needed something quick but impressive. I grabbed some chicken, ranch mix, and parmesan from my pantry, and these beauties were born! My guests couldn't stop asking for the recipe. Now I make double batches because they disappear so fast. The smell of the garlic and parmesan caramelizing together is absolutely intoxicating. I've tried them on the grill and in a skillet, and both methods work perfectly. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon at the end for extra brightness.

Perfect Pairings

These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread to soak up any extra flavor. For a complete meal, serve them over creamy risotto or alongside grilled vegetables. They're also fantastic with a cold beer or crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. For dipping, try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for those who like a kick.

Grilled ranch seasoned chicken skewers with crispy parmesan coating and herb garnish | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these in the oven?: Yes! Preheat to 400°F and bake for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through. Broil for 2 minutes at the end for crispy edges.
→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?: Absolutely! Season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge. Thread onto skewers just before cooking.
→ What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?: Try Italian dressing mix, Greek seasoning, or make your own with dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs.
→ How do I know when they're fully cooked?: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be golden brown with no pink inside.
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?: Yes! Chicken thighs work great and stay even juicier. Just adjust cooking time as they may take a few minutes longer.

Conclusion

These Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of easy preparation and incredible flavor. The ranch seasoning creates a tangy base while the parmesan adds that irresistible crispy, cheesy coating. Whether you're hosting a party or making a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The key is letting that parmesan get nice and crispy while keeping the chicken juicy inside.