Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a deliciously simple and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of grilled chicken with the creamy tang of ranch dressing and the rich flavor of garlic and parmesan. These skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend BBQ, or a fun appetizer for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, they offer a mouthwatering combination of flavors that everyone will love. The smoky grill flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy ranch marinade, making these skewers irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Marinade: The creamy ranch dressing mixed with garlic and parmesan infuses the chicken with delicious flavor.
Perfectly Grilled: Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky, charred flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich marinade.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple prep, these skewers come together in no time.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, adding extra garlic or herbs if you prefer.
Kid-Friendly: These skewers are perfect for the whole family and are sure to be a hit with kids.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Marinade:

½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for extra tang)

For the Skewers:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should have a nice char on the outside.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or extra parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve the skewers with your favorite side dishes or a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a tangy yogurt dip.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Grilling time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, increase the garlic powder or minced garlic in the marinade for an extra punch of flavor.
Herb Options: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the marinade for a more herby twist.
Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the marinade.
Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat, use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier skewer.
Crispy Coating: After grilling, sprinkle the skewers with breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze: Place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you like, such as Asiago or Romano, though parmesan adds a classic flavor.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling them?

Yes! You can bake the skewers at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and skewer it just before grilling. This can save you time on the day you plan to cook.

Do I need to soak the skewers if they are metal?

No, soaking is only necessary for wooden skewers to prevent them from burning on the grill.

What side dishes pair well with these skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy potato salad.

Can I make the marinade without ranch dressing?

Yes, you can make a homemade ranch dressing or use a different creamy dressing like blue cheese or Caesar if you prefer.

How can I add more flavor to the chicken?

You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest to the marinade for more citrusy brightness, or experiment with different herbs like basil or dill.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, and ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat. Don’t overcook the chicken—check the internal temperature.

Can I make this recipe on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, you can cook the skewers on a stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can make these skewers with shrimp or beef but be sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly.

Conclusion

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner, BBQ, or a simple weeknight meal, these skewers will never disappoint. With the perfect combination of tangy ranch, savory garlic, and rich parmesan, they’re bound to become a favorite!