Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

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by Vanessaa

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Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

A perfect blend of flavors, Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious option for any occasion. These skewers are tender and juicy, thanks to the homemade ranch garlic parmesan sauce that enhances each bite. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or serve them over rice and veggies, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these skewers can be made quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and ranch seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as an appetizer or serve over rice with veggies for a complete meal.
  • Perfect for Air Frying: This recipe is designed for air fryers, ensuring crispy edges while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
  • Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather a few essential tools. This will ensure a smooth process when making your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Wooden skewers
  • Large bowl or ziptop bag
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Whisk
  • Basting brush
  • Air fryer

Importance of Each Tool

  • Wooden skewers: Soaking these prevents burning during cooking and helps keep chicken juicy.
  • Air fryer: Perfect for achieving that desirable crispiness without deep frying.

Ingredients

A ranch herby version of my tender fall-apart chicken skewers. These are basted with a homemade ranch garlic parmesan sauce throughout the cooking process and easily prepared in an air fryer. Enjoy as an appetizer or serve over a bed of rice and veggies spread with leftover garlic parmesan butter. SEE NOTES for oven or grill instructions

For the Chicken Skewers

  • 2 lbs chicken tenders (thighs or breast)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce

  • 1 stick butter
  • 8-10 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan (grated)
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes

For Seasoning

  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1.5 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep and Skewer Chicken

  1. Before you start, make sure to soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Combine your chicken seasoning mixture in a small bowl and set aside. Prep your chicken by cutting it into 3 pieces.
  3. Place the chicken in a large bowl or ziptop bag, tossing in olive oil and spices until well-coated.
  4. Pack the chicken tightly onto each skewer, ensuring no spaces between pieces for maximum juiciness.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the butter and minced garlic, heating until partially melted.
  2. Stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, seasonings, and parmesan until well combined.
  3. Reserve 1/3 of the sauce for basting cooked chicken; set aside the rest.

Step 3: Cook The Chicken

  1. Place 2-3 skewers at a time into the air fryer; cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
  2. Remove skewers to flip them over; baste with reserved sauce before returning to cook for an additional 2 minutes at 400 degrees.
  3. Flip again, baste with more sauce, then cook another 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. Once finished cooking, give them a final basting with the reserved clean sauce and sprinkle with extra parmesan before serving.

Servings: 6 (6 skewers)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a simple family dinner, these skewers fit right in. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Transform into a Salad

  • Mixed Greens: Serve the skewers over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh touch.
  • Caesar Salad: Add the skewers to a classic Caesar salad for extra protein and flavor.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

  • Ranch Dressing: Complement the flavors with additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
  • Buffalo Sauce: For spice lovers, provide buffalo sauce for an extra kick.

Serve with Grains

  • Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice makes a great base and absorbs the garlic parmesan sauce.
  • Quinoa: A healthier option full of protein and fiber, quinoa pairs well with these skewers.

Make it a Wrap

  • Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken skewers in tortillas with veggies for an easy handheld meal.
  • Pita Pockets: Stuff pita pockets with chicken, lettuce, and your favorite sauces for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Perfecting your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to achieve juicy, flavorful skewers every time.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the taste significantly compared to dried alternatives.
  • Marinate Overnight: Allowing your chicken to marinate overnight infuses more flavor into the meat.
  • Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leaving space between pieces ensures even cooking and prevents drying out.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to personal preference for unique flavors.
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Best Side Dishes for Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal experience. Here’s a list of delicious sides that complement these tasty skewers perfectly.

  1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that soaks up any leftover sauce beautifully.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
  3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.
  4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent hearty side option.
  5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn provides sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory chicken.
  6. Couscous Salad: Light couscous salad with veggies is refreshing and easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common pitfalls when making Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers for the best results.

  • Skipping the Soaking Step: Failing to soak your wooden skewers can lead to burning during cooking. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent this issue.
  • Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning your chicken can result in bland skewers. Use the recommended spices and make sure every piece of chicken is well-coated for maximum flavor.
  • Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many pieces of chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure the pieces are tightly packed but not overcrowded, allowing hot air to circulate for even cooking.
  • Ignoring Cook Times: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your skewers. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees for safety and juiciness.
  • Using Cross-Contaminated Sauce: Using sauce that has touched raw chicken can lead to foodborne illness. Always reserve some sauce before basting any raw chicken and wash utensils in between uses.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • They will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
  • Make sure they are cooled down completely before sealing.

Freezing Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • Place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • They will keep well for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook skewers, turning occasionally, until heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are flavorful chicken pieces marinated with ranch seasoning, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then cooked on skewers. They offer a deliciously herby taste that’s perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken tenders with thighs or breasts based on your preference. Just ensure that they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

How do I customize Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions on the skewers alongside the chicken. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce and red pepper flakes.

What should I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, salads, or steamed veggies. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers offer an irresistible combination of flavors that make them perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your tastes, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or served over rice and veggies, these skewers are sure to impress! Give this recipe a try and add your personal twist!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers


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  • Author: Vanessa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6 (6 skewers) 1x

Description

Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. These skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a rich homemade ranch garlic parmesan sauce that elevates every bite. Ideal as an appetizer or served over rice with veggies, they are packed with flavor and can be prepared quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer technique ensures crispy edges while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Customize the heat level to suit your taste, and enjoy these skewers at your next gathering or family dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken tenders (thighs or breast)
  • 1 stick butter
  • 810 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1.5 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Mix olive oil and spices in a bowl; coat chicken pieces evenly.
  3. Thread chicken onto skewers tightly.
  4. Prepare garlic parmesan sauce by melting butter and mixing with garlic and seasonings.
  5. Cook skewers in an air fryer at 400°F, flipping and basting until cooked through.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 skewer
  • Calories: 275
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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