Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (Low Carb, Gluten-Free, and Flavorful)
If you’re searching for a flavorful, satisfying meal that adheres to your low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle, Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the answer. Tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated and cooked to perfection with a rich, buttery garlic parmesan sauce are sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or broiling, these chicken skewers are the perfect addition to your weekly meal plan, ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping. The savory, cheesy garlic butter sauce provides a perfect balance of flavors, while keeping the dish entirely keto-friendly.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through every step of preparing these delectable chicken skewers—from ingredients and detailed instructions to nutritional facts and helpful tips. This recipe is not only keto-friendly but also an excellent option for anyone following a low-carb, gluten-free, or paleo diet. Each serving is packed with healthy fats, protein, and flavor, while being low in carbs, making it a perfect fit for any low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Ingredients for Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
These chicken skewers are made using simple, clean ingredients that are common in many keto recipes. The key is in the marinade and garlic parmesan butter sauce, which add incredible depth of flavor while maintaining the low-carb integrity of the dish.
Here’s what you’ll need to make keto garlic parmesan chicken skewers:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 2 lbs Chicken (Tenders, Thighs, or Breasts)
- You can use chicken tenders, boneless skinless thighs, or chicken breasts depending on your preference. Chicken thighs are a great choice for keto recipes due to their higher fat content, which fits perfectly with the high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet. However, chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer leaner cuts. Ensure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces to allow for even cooking and to make the skewering process easier.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- Olive oil is used to coat the chicken, ensuring that it cooks up perfectly tender and juicy while adding flavor. It’s a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are an essential part of any keto diet.
For the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
- 1 Stick (1/2 cup) Butter
- Butter is the key to creating a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce that coats the chicken skewers. Full-fat butter is keto-approved and adds richness to the sauce, perfectly complementing the flavors of garlic and parmesan.
- 8-10 Cloves Garlic (Minced)
- Garlic is a staple in keto cooking, and it adds a bold, aromatic flavor to the sauce. Fresh garlic cloves provide a rich, pungent aroma that enhances the overall taste of the skewers.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory flavor to the sauce, enhancing the garlic butter mixture and creating a creamy, cheesy finish. Make sure to use fresh, finely grated parmesan cheese for the best results.
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce. This is entirely optional but adds a lovely contrast to the rich butter and cheese.
- Salt and Black Pepper (To Taste)
- Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and butter sauce. Adjust the amounts based on your preference, but keep in mind that the parmesan cheese will already contribute some saltiness.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, providing color and a fresh, herbal finish to the dish. It also adds a mild, slightly peppery taste that complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Instructions for Making Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
With the ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of creating these delicious keto chicken skewers. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or broiling, this method works perfectly for all cooking methods.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by preparing your chicken. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into evenly sized bite-sized cubes. If you’re using chicken thighs, cut them into strips or cubes—just ensure they’re all similar in size to promote even cooking. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them cook evenly and brown better.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken with the olive oil. Toss the chicken pieces so that they are evenly coated in the oil. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well. You can allow the chicken to marinate for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors soak in. However, if you’re short on time, you can move directly to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the garlic parmesan butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, but not burnt. Be careful not to overcook the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Once the garlic is ready, add the grated parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the cheese melts and combines with the butter, forming a creamy sauce. If you like a bit of spice, you can add the optional red pepper flakes at this stage. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15-20 minutes before use to prevent them from burning during cooking. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece of chicken to allow for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken Skewers
Now it’s time to cook the chicken. There are a few different ways to cook the chicken skewers:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Broiling: Preheat your broiler and set the skewers under the broiler for about 4-5 minutes per side, checking for doneness and turning to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
Once the chicken skewers are cooked to perfection, remove them from the heat and immediately drizzle the garlic parmesan butter sauce over the skewers. Use a brush or spoon to coat the chicken evenly in the buttery, cheesy sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
To finish off your dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken skewers for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal flavor. Serve immediately with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice to keep the meal low-carb and keto-friendly.
Nutritional Information for Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
This recipe is a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet, as it’s high in protein and healthy fats while remaining low in carbs. Below is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of keto garlic parmesan chicken skewers (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Total Carbs: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Net Carbs: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
- Sugar: 0 g
SmartPoints and Weight Watchers (WW) Information
For those following the Weight Watchers program, these keto garlic parmesan chicken skewers are an excellent choice for staying within your daily SmartPoints. Each skewer, or one-sixth of the recipe, is approximately 4 SmartPoints on the WW PersonalPoints system.
Helpful Tips for Making Perfect Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Use High-Quality Chicken: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality chicken. Organic or pasture-raised chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful, which will elevate your dish.
- Customize the Seasonings: If you love a little extra kick, feel free to add additional spices, such as onion powder, smoked paprika, or lemon zest, to the chicken marinade or the butter sauce.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for chicken.
- Make it a Meal: Pair these skewers with keto-friendly sides like roasted broccoli, zucchini noodles, or a refreshing cucumber salad. These skewers are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of keto-friendly vegetables.
- Meal Prep: These chicken skewers are perfect for meal prepping. Prepare and cook the skewers in advance, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion: Why Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Are a Must-Try
These Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. They are packed with protein and healthy fats while being low in carbs, making them the perfect option for those looking to maintain their health goals without sacrificing flavor. The rich, creamy garlic parmesan butter sauce ties everything together, creating a deliciously satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with keto-friendly sides.
Whether you’re grilling, baking, or broiling, this simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Try these skewers at your next dinner, and you’ll understand why they’ve become a keto favorite!
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