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Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Easy Bacon & Cheddar Recipe

ranch garlic parmesan chicken skewers - featured image

Juicy chicken bites marinated in ranch, garlic, and parmesan, wrapped in smoky bacon, and finished with a cheddar drizzle. These handheld skewers are perfect for parties or weeknight dinners and guaranteed to please both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
  • 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt (skip if ranch mix is salty)
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
  • 810 wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp ranch dressing (for drizzling)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
  • Extra grated parmesan (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, ranch seasoning, parmesan, garlic, olive oil, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Toss well to coat. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
  2. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using. Slice bacon in half to make 16 pieces. Set aside cheddar and ranch dressing for drizzle.
  3. Alternate threading marinated chicken and bacon pieces onto each skewer, starting with chicken, then bacon, repeating until full. Leave a little space at the ends. You’ll get about 8-10 skewers.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly oil it. Lay skewers in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip skewers and bake another 5-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and bacon is crisp. (Grill method: medium-high heat, 4-5 minutes per side.)
  5. Sprinkle cheddar over skewers. Return to oven for 2-3 minutes, just until cheese melts. Drizzle with ranch dressing or serve on the side.
  6. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and chopped parsley or chives. Serve hot.

Notes

For crispier bacon, broil skewers for 1-2 minutes at the end. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor. Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Check ranch seasoning for gluten if needed. Leftovers are great in wraps or salads.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken skewers, ranch chicken, garlic parmesan, bacon cheddar, party food, easy dinner, kid friendly, gluten free, high protein, oven baked, grilling