Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1-1½ lb chicken breasts, cubed or thighs
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1-2 tsp no salt added lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup lemon juice
For the Garlic Parmesan Butter:
- 4-6 Tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup parmesan, grated
- 2 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (fresh cilantro also works)
- 1 small lemon, sliced for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, add the cubed chicken, making sure the pieces are of equal size to ensure even cooking. Add olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Mix thoroughly to coat all chicken pieces evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes up to 4 hours.
- Make Garlic Parmesan Butter: When ready to cook, place butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping warm or at room temperature. Later, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro) and optional lemon juice to create the garlic Parmesan butter sauce.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto wooden or metal skewers. Arrange the skewers on a flat baking sheet to prepare for grilling.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium/high heat, aiming for about 400°F (204°C). Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for 8-10 minutes total, turning frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Frequently baste the chicken with the prepared garlic Parmesan butter, letting the flavors soak in while the chicken cooks.
- Finish and Serve: Turn the skewers on each side, letting them rest about 2 minutes per side on the grill while brushing generously with garlic Parmesan butter. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC) and the chicken is golden brown. Remove the skewers from the grill, place on a baking sheet, and brush with any remaining garlic Parmesan butter. Optionally, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on top and garnish with lemon slices before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months.
- For best results, do not overcook the chicken; use a digital meat thermometer to check doneness.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- To cook in an air fryer, cut the skewers to fit or cook chicken pieces without skewers at 350ºF for 10-12 minutes, brushing with butter once or twice.
- Alternatively, bake chicken skewers in an oven at 350ºF for 15-18 minutes, turning often.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
