There’s nothing quite like smoky, juicy chicken kissed by the grill—and these Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers deliver just that. With a garlicky Parmesan butter glaze and a ranch-seasoned rub, each bite is packed with bold flavor. This recipe is a total win for busy weeknights, BBQs, or when you’re craving something savory and satisfying without fuss. If you’ve ever felt unsure about seasoning chicken or skewering meat, don’t worry—I’ll walk you through it with step-by-step guidance perfect for beginners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is a surefire way to impress, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself.
- Unforgettable Flavor: The garlic-Parmesan butter sauce takes these skewers over the top.
- Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward steps and no complicated marinades.
- Meal-Prep Approved: Easily scale it with the 1x/2x/3x ingredient format.
- Great for Any Cut: Works with tenders, thighs, or breasts—whatever you have on hand.
This is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a pro, even if you’re just learning your way around the grill.
A Little Backstory on Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Here are a few tasty facts about this backyard favorite:
- Ranch seasoning was invented in the 1950s and became an instant American staple.
- Parmesan and garlic is a flavor duo loved across everything from wings to pasta.
- Skewered meats date back thousands of years in cultures like Greek (souvlaki) and Turkish (shish kebabs).
- Combining them all? It’s a bold, modern twist that’s as craveable as it is nostalgic.
Key Ingredients in Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Chicken tenders, thighs, or breasts – Juicy and protein-packed, they’re the perfect canvas for bold seasoning.
- Olive oil – Helps lock in moisture and bind the spices to the meat.
- Dry ranch seasoning – Brings tangy, herby depth to both the marinade and finishing sauce.
- Minced garlic – The flavor backbone in the butter sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into a deliciously savory coating.
- Hot sauce & red pepper flakes – Add a kick of heat that’s easy to adjust.
- Fresh parsley & dried dill – Add brightness and herby notes throughout.
How to Make Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step-by-Step for Perfect Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Soak your skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix 1.5 tablespoons ranch seasoning, 1 teaspoon dill, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper.
- Prep the chicken: Cut your chicken into roughly 3-inch pieces. Place them in a bowl or zip-top bag and drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Toss to coat: Add the seasoning mixture and toss until the chicken is well coated on all sides.
- Skewer tightly: Thread the seasoned chicken onto soaked skewers, packing them tightly with no space between pieces. If needed, trim the skewers to fit your grill or air fryer.
- Make the garlic Parmesan butter sauce: Melt 1 stick of butter in a small pan. Stir in 8–10 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup Parmesan, 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon dill, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ⅓ cup fresh parsley.
- Grill the skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill chicken skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, until fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
- Brush with sauce: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, generously brush the garlic Parmesan butter over the skewers for maximum flavor.
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Tips and Twists
Tips for Success
- Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the soak—wooden skewers burn fast!
- Pack the chicken tightly on skewers to retain juiciness.
- Brush butter sauce late in grilling to prevent flare-ups.
- Use a thermometer to avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Flavorful Variations
- Spicy Ranch Skewers: Double the hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over hot skewers.
- Veggie Lovers: Alternate with chunks of zucchini or bell pepper.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second bursts.
- Make-Ahead: You can marinate and skewer the chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Store in the fridge until ready to grill.
Serving Suggestions for Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
These flavorful skewers are incredibly versatile on the plate:
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a filling dinner.
- Pair with our Grilled Chicken Wraps for a fresh, handheld option.
- Enjoy alongside Grilled Vegetables or Roasted Broccoli and Carrots for a balanced meal.
- Add a side of Pesto Pasta Salad for herbaceous contrast.
- For a light pairing, try a chilled Simple Avocado Toast with Egg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I air fry instead of grill?
Yes! Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Is it too spicy for kids?
Not at all—just adjust or omit the hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
What’s the best cut of chicken?
Tenders and thighs are juicier, but breasts work well if not overcooked.
Can I use metal skewers?
Absolutely—just skip the soaking step.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, dill, and salt for a quick DIY version.
Enjoy Your Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend BBQ or simply craving a flavor-packed dinner, Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will never disappoint. With their juicy texture, crispy grilled edges, and garlic-Parmesan finish, these skewers are bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Try them once, and they’ll steal the spotlight at every cookout!
Explore More Recipes
Hungry for more? Here are some flavorful favorites to round out your meal:
- Pair with the creamy comfort of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs.
- Want a quick wrap? Our Quick Crispy Chicken Wraps are perfect for busy weekdays.
- Craving pasta? Try the rich, savory Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
- Finish with dessert—go for fruity and fun Blueberry Breakfast Quesadilla.
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 lbs chicken tenders thighs, or breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 tbsp dry ranch seasoning
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
- 1 stick ½ cup butter
- 8 –10 garlic cloves minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp hot sauce adjust to taste
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley minced
- 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning
- 1 tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cut chicken into 3-inch chunks. In a bowl or bag, toss with olive oil and seasoning mixture.
- Thread chicken tightly onto soaked skewers. Trim ends if using air fryer.
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.
- In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in garlic, Parmesan, ranch, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, dill, onion powder, and parsley.
- During last 2 minutes of grilling, brush skewers with garlic Parmesan butter sauce.
- Grill until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Remove from heat.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving with extra sauce if desired.