Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers

There’s something undeniably magical about summer evenings spent grilling with friends and family. The air is warm, laughter fills the atmosphere, and the tantalizing aroma of Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers wafts through the air, beckoning everyone to gather around. I still remember the first time I made these skewers for a backyard barbecue. As soon as they hit the grill, the sizzle was music to my ears, and my guests couldn’t help but ask what was cooking. You see, the combination of zesty lemon, savory parmesan, and fragrant herbs creates an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds. I love serving these skewers with a side of fresh salad or roasted veggies, making it the perfect meal to enjoy during warm summer nights.

Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers Ingredients

The ingredients in Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers are simple yet powerful. Each component contributes to the overall flavor profile, making it a delightful dish. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken. The addition of zesty lemon and rich parmesan highlights the savory notes, while the herbs add depth. It’s a combination that truly works wonders.

• 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for skewering.
• ¼ cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade stick to the chicken.
• Juice of ½ lemon: Brings brightness and acidity, enhancing the flavors.
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and helps keep the chicken moist.
• 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and depth to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for a savory kick.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors in the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice.
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter: For the delicious garlic herb sauce.
• 12 cloves garlic, finely minced: Infuses the sauce with intoxicating flavor.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings rich, nutty notes to the dish.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds freshness and color.
• Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens up the garlic herb butter sauce.
• 2 teaspoons salt: For seasoning the garlic herb butter.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Complements the garlic and parmesan.

Step by Step Guide for Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Making Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers is a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavors and aromas. It’s a straightforward process that guarantees fantastic results. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. This is where the flavor starts to develop! Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
2. If you’re short on time, a quick 10-minute marinate at room temp will still add flavor to the chicken.
3. While the chicken marinates, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter. Keep stirring to ensure it cooks evenly!
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped parsley, an additional splash of lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir and set aside. This garlic herb butter is about to elevate your skewers!
5. Now it’s time to thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Make sure to thread the pieces tightly so they cook evenly. Discard any leftover marinade, as we don’t want any raw chicken juices on our skewers.
6. Preheat your grill, or prepare your oven to bake at 425°F. If using a grill, oil the grates to prevent sticking.
7. Grill the skewers for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely char. If baking, cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
8. Once cooked, brush or spoon the warm garlic herb butter generously over the skewers. This step is crucial – it adds that extra layer of flavor that makes these skewers unforgettable.
9. Serve the Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers with lemon wedges and extra Parmesan if desired. Pair them with a crisp salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to customize your Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers, here are some tips and substitutions that can elevate your dish:

• Storage: Transfer leftover chicken to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Freezing: These skewers can be frozen before cooking. Just marinate and freeze, then cook directly from frozen.
• Variations: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Serving: These skewers pair wonderfully with a zesty dipping sauce or over a bed of mixed greens.
• Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken in advance for quick weeknight meals.

Best Served With

• Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a crisp salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Grilled Vegetables: Complement the skewers with seasonal grilled vegetables, which add color and flavor.
• Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa works well to soak up flavors from the skewers.
• Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad makes for a delightful side dish that balances the warmth of the skewers.
• Picnic Delight: Perfect for picnics, these skewers can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• Summer BBQs: Ideal for summer gatherings, serve them on a platter for everyone to enjoy!

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to bring summer flavors to your table any time of year. With their zesty marinade, juicy chicken, and rich garlic herb butter, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will be begging for more!

Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers

The ultimate summer dish, Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor and perfect for grilling. Juicy chicken thighs marinated in zesty lemon and creamy parmesan create a deliciously satisfying meal. Ideal for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners, you'll want to make these tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 2-inch pieces
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter (you can halve if preferred)
• 12 cloves garlic finely minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

• Frying pan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the olive oil, lemon juice, Greek yogurt, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. If you're short on time, a quick 10-minute marinate at room temp will still add flavor.
3. While the chicken marinates, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted, then add the chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Thread the marinated chicken tightly onto skewers. Discard any leftover marinade.
5. Grill the skewers for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred in spots.
6. Brush or spoon the warm garlic herb butter generously over the cooked skewers before serving.
7. Serve the Lemon Pepper Parmesan Chicken Skewers with lemon wedges and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Transfer leftover chicken to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: These skewers can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Previous PostCandy Cane Brownies

Next Post Easy Chicken Shawarma

Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.