Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. While the skewers soak, prick the potato chunks several times with a fork and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 5-8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. This par-cooking step is essential because it ensures the potatoes will be fully cooked through by the time the outside gets nicely charred on the grill.
While the potatoes are still warm from the microwave, transfer them to a bowl and add the butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss everything together gently until each potato chunk is evenly coated with the seasoned butter. I like to let the warm potatoes sit with the butter for a minute so the seasonings really meld—it makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
Heat your grill to 400°F while you thread the seasoned potatoes onto the soaked skewers, distributing them evenly so the potatoes sit close together but not overcrowded. This ensures good contact with the heat and helps them develop a nice crust. Leave about an inch of space on each end of the skewer for easier handling.
Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them—this creates those beautiful caramelized, charred spots that add depth of flavor. Carefully flip each skewer and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until you see similar charring on all sides. The potatoes should be golden brown with crispy edges while staying tender inside.
While the skewers finish grilling, prepare your topping by combining the sour cream with most of the green onions, fresh parsley, and chives, reserving just a small amount of herbs for garnish. Transfer the grilled potato skewers to a serving platter and dollop generously with the herbed sour cream mixture, then sprinkle with the reserved fresh herbs. I find that the warm potatoes slightly melt the cool sour cream, creating a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each piece.