Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ultimate Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for several reasons. The marinade creates incredibly tender, juicy chicken with layers of flavor that penetrate every bite. The combination of ranch dressing and parmesan cheese creates a unique flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults. These skewers cook quickly on the grill, making them perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as a main dish with sides or as appetizers at parties. The prep work is minimal, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Marinade
- ½ cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for extra tang)
For the Skewers
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden or metal skewers
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, grated parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using) until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor development. Turn the bag occasionally to ensure all pieces are well-coated.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving small spaces between each piece for even cooking. You should have about 6-8 skewers depending on the size.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the exterior is golden brown with nice grill marks.
Step 6: Rest and Serve Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Helpful Tips
Choose chicken thighs over breasts for extra juiciness and flavor, as they’re more forgiving and less likely to dry out during grilling. Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout all skewers. Don’t over-marinate the chicken beyond 4 hours, as the acids in the ranch dressing can start to break down the meat’s texture. When threading the skewers, leave small gaps between pieces to allow heat circulation and prevent uneven cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness rather than relying solely on cooking time, as grill temperatures can vary. If you don’t have a grill, these skewers work beautifully in a grill pan on the stovetop or even baked in the oven at 425°F for 15-18 minutes.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time) Cook Time: 12-15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time) Servings: 4-6 people Cuisine: American Diet: Gluten-free (check ranch dressing ingredients)
Notes

For homemade ranch dressing, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried dill, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. The marinade can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. If your chicken pieces are particularly thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them slightly thinner for more even cooking. These Ultimate Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, but make sure to completely thaw and pat dry the chicken before marinating. Frozen chicken that hasn’t been properly thawed will not absorb the marinade effectively.
How long should I marinate the chicken? For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours. Longer marinating times can make the chicken mushy due to the acids in the ranch dressing.
Can I make these in the oven instead of grilling? Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through.
What’s the best way to prevent the skewers from sticking to the grill? Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. You can also brush the skewers lightly with oil before grilling.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the marinated skewers up to 4 hours before cooking and keep them refrigerated until ready to grill.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Ultimate Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, remove chicken from skewers and warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or wraps. For longer storage, remove the chicken from skewers and freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Related Recipes
Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Try these favorites from Run of Life:
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Mediterranean Grilled Chicken
- Buffalo Chicken Skewers
- Lemon Herb Chicken Kabobs
Conclusion
These Ultimate Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The creamy ranch marinade infused with garlic and parmesan transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a summer gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, these skewers deliver consistent, delicious results every time. The combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility makes this recipe a must-have in your cooking repertoire. Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy these incredibly satisfying Ultimate Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that are sure to become a family favorite.