Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

INGREDIENTS:

2 ½ lbs chicken breasts, cubed: Tender, juicy chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces make the perfect base for these skewers.

2 ½ tablespoons olive oil: Helps to coat the chicken evenly and keeps it moist during cooking.

2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken.

1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor that’s central to this dish.

1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.

1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken.

1 teaspoon black pepper: For a little bit of bite and balance.

¾ cup butter: Because everything’s better with butter, right? It also helps the garlic and Parmesan flavors meld together beautifully.

7-9 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show! This is where the rich, savory flavor comes in.

⅔ cup Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that’s irresistible.

1 ½ teaspoons red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat, balancing out the richness.

1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings everything together.

DIRECTIONS:

Ready to get started? Here’s how to make these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

Step 1: Prep Your Skewers

Soak the skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, start by filling a large dish with water and soaking them as you prepare the chicken. This will prevent them from burning in the oven or on the grill.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C): This high heat will help the chicken cook quickly and develop a nice, golden crust. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Prepare the chicken: Place the cubed chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

Add the spices: Sprinkle the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss again until all the pieces are well-seasoned.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter

Melt the butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter until it’s smooth and liquid.

Add the flavors: Mix in the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined. Transfer a few spoonfuls of this mixture to a separate small bowl for serving later—this will be your finishing sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Skewers

Skewer the chicken: Take your soaked skewers and start threading the seasoned chicken cubes onto them. Pack the cubes together tightly for even cooking and to keep them juicy.

Place on the baking sheet: Arrange the skewers on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not too crowded.

Step 6: Bake and Broil

Brush with butter: Generously brush the garlic Parmesan butter mixture on all sides of the skewers.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 13-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Broil for crispiness: After baking, switch your oven to broil and cook the skewers for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the outside is crisp and golden …