Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for any cookout, family dinner, or summer gathering. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a creamy blend of ranch, garlic, and Parmesan, then grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, savory bite every time. The skewers are not only delicious but also versatile, pairing well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is an excellent choice for both weeknight meals and weekend entertaining. Whether you are a seasoned griller or just starting out, these skewers guarantee an effortless and crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a favorite.
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Irresistible Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti – Creamy Comfort with a Fiery Twist
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy, cheesy Southern-style spaghetti dish with tender chicken, spicy seasonings, and a rich tomato-cheese sauce baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Add shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti to the skillet mixture, tossing until coated.
- Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake for 5 more minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper.
- Pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing the flavors of the marinade, chicken breast is the main protein in this dish. Cut into even-sized cubes, it ensures quick and uniform cooking on the grill.
Ranch dressing – This creamy dressing serves as the base of the marinade, adding tangy richness while helping to keep the chicken moist and flavorful during grilling.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic deepens the savory flavor, balancing the tang of the ranch with its aromatic punch.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor that enhances the ranch and garlic combination, creating a robust and indulgent taste.
Olive oil – Essential for binding the marinade ingredients together, olive oil also prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill grates.
Lemon juice – A touch of acidity brightens the marinade, tenderizes the chicken, and balances the richness of the cheese and ranch dressing.
Salt and black pepper – These classic seasonings sharpen and elevate the overall flavors, ensuring the marinade is well-rounded.
Fresh parsley – Chopped parsley adds a pop of freshness and color, complementing the savory elements with a subtle herbal note.
Directions
Begin by preparing the chicken breasts, cutting them into evenly sized cubes to ensure consistent grilling. In a mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, tossing them until fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply.
Once marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece to ensure even cooking. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese before serving. These skewers are best enjoyed hot, straight from the grill, with your favorite sides.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings, with each serving consisting of one to two skewers depending on portion size. Preparation, including marination, requires around 2 hours, while the grilling time is approximately 12 minutes. Overall, expect the recipe to take 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Storage/reheating
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on a stovetop skillet for a quick and flavorful refresh. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a bold, spicy twist.
Herb infusion – Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to deepen the earthy flavors.
Cheese variation – Substitute Parmesan with Asiago or Romano for a slightly different cheesy finish.
Vegetable skewers – Alternate chicken with bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions on the skewers for added color and nutrition.
Yogurt base – Replace ranch dressing with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier marinade.
Bacon-wrapped – Wrap chicken cubes with thin bacon slices before skewering for a smoky, indulgent variation.
Asian-inspired – Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to the marinade for a fusion twist.
Low-carb option – Serve with cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini instead of traditional carb-heavy sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay even juicier during grilling.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking them in water for 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but for best results, marinate for up to 6 hours.
Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and refrigerate until ready to grill.
What sides pair well with these skewers?
Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, or garlic bread are excellent choices.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before grilling.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
Conclusion
Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a versatile and flavorful recipe ideal for gatherings, weeknight meals, or summer cookouts. With tender chicken infused in a creamy, garlicky, and cheesy marinade, these skewers deliver both taste and convenience. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit different palates, they ensure a satisfying meal every time. Whether served with fresh vegetables, grains, or simply on their own, these skewers promise to be a highlight of any menu.