Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the kind of recipe that instantly wins people over, thanks to tender chicken, bold ranch seasoning, buttery garlic flavor, and a generous coating of savory Parmesan cheese. These skewers are easy enough for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough for parties, game days, or backyard cookouts. Whether you make them in the air fryer, oven, or on the grill, this recipe delivers juicy chicken with irresistible flavor in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. First, it is packed with familiar, comforting flavors. Ranch seasoning brings herbs and tang, garlic adds depth, and Parmesan delivers that rich, salty finish everyone loves. Second, the chicken stays incredibly juicy because it is basted with a garlic Parmesan butter sauce while it cooks. Finally, the cooking methods are flexible. You can air fry for speed, roast in the oven, or grill for a smoky finish.
These skewers are also family friendly, customizable, and great for meal prep. Serve them with rice, salad, roasted vegetables, or even tucked into wraps for easy lunches.
Ingredients for Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Chicken Skewers
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce, optional
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy. For a lighter option, reduce the butter slightly and add a splash of low sodium chicken broth to the sauce. If you want to avoid spicy heat, simply leave out the hot sauce and red pepper flakes. Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and gives the sauce a smoother texture than pre-shredded cheese.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers and Chicken
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then add it to a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in ranch seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Toss well until every piece is evenly coated.
Thread the seasoned chicken tightly onto the skewers, leaving just a little space at each end for easy handling.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, hot sauce if using, red pepper flakes if using, and chopped parsley. Set aside about one third of the sauce for finishing after cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Skewers
Air Fryer Method
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the skewers in a single layer in the basket, working in batches if needed. Cook for 6 minutes, then brush generously with the garlic Parmesan butter sauce. Flip the skewers, brush again, and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Oven Method
Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Place the skewers on the sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once and basting with sauce. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end for extra color.
Grill Method
Preheat the grill to medium high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes and brushing with sauce, until cooked through.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the skewers from the heat and brush with the reserved garlic Parmesan butter sauce. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks at the same rate.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer or baking sheet. Space helps the chicken brown instead of steam.
- Always reserve some sauce for finishing. This boosts flavor and keeps the chicken glossy and moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Chicken is perfect at 165°F.
- Fresh Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture.
- Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving to keep juices inside.
Flavor Variations
- Lemon Herb: Add fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to the butter sauce.
- Honey Garlic: Stir 1 tablespoon honey into the butter sauce for a sweet savory balance.
- Buffalo Ranch: Increase the hot sauce and add a little extra ranch seasoning.
- Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara for dipping.
- Smoky BBQ: Add smoked paprika and a splash of mild barbecue sauce to the butter mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair perfectly with fluffy rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or buttery corn on the cob. For a lighter meal, serve them over a crisp green salad or with roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. They also make great party food with dipping sauces such as ranch, garlic aioli, or marinara.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven at 350°F until warmed through. To freeze, remove the chicken from the skewers and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
FAQ About Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can season and skewer the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Make the sauce fresh for best flavor, then cook just before serving.
Are these chicken skewers spicy?
They are mildly spicy if you use hot sauce and red pepper flakes, but the heat is very customizable. Simply leave them out if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I use metal skewers?
Absolutely. Metal skewers work well and do not require soaking. Just be careful when handling them, as they get very hot.
What if I do not have ranch seasoning?
You can make a quick substitute using dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. It will still taste great.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Basting with the garlic Parmesan butter sauce and cooking to the correct temperature are key. Avoid overcooking and always rest the chicken briefly before serving.
Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Equipment
- Skewers wooden or metal
- mixing bowl
- small saucepan
- basting brush
- air fryer, oven, or grill
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken tenders or chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp dried dill
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.33 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes. Pat the chicken dry, place it in a bowl, add olive oil, ranch seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper, then toss to coat. Thread chicken onto skewers.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium low heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Reserve one third of the sauce.
- Cook the skewers using your preferred method. Air fryer: 400°F for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping and basting halfway. Oven: 450°F for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once. Grill: medium high heat for 10 to 12 minutes, turning often and basting.
- Remove skewers from heat and brush with the reserved garlic Parmesan butter sauce. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Juicy Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers truly live up to their name. They are flavorful, tender, and incredibly easy to make with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you are cooking for family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit and one you will come back to again and again.
