Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re diving into a delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household – Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Imagine juicy chicken pieces, marinated in a blend of spices, and then basted with a rich garlic Parmesan butter sauce. The result? A mouth-watering dish that perfectly balances savory, spicy, and cheesy flavors.
This recipe is ideal for busy individuals and families who crave flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced foodie, these chicken skewers are straightforward to prepare and cook. The air fryer makes the process quick and easy, ensuring you get a healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. chicken tenders, thighs or breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
- 1 stick butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan, grated
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
Chicken Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Directions:
- Prep and Skewer Chicken: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. Mix chicken seasonings and set aside. Cut chicken into 3″ pieces and toss with olive oil and spices. Skewer the chicken tightly.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat butter and garlic until partially melted. Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, parsley, and parmesan. Whisk until combined.
- Cook the Chicken: Cook skewers in an air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes. Flip, baste with sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Flip again, baste, and cook for 5-6 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 165 degrees.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Wooden skewers
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk
- Microwave-safe bowl
Tips and Shortcuts
- Pre-make the Sauce: You can prepare the garlic Parmesan butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before using.
- Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Protein Swap: Try this recipe with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different cheese profile.
- Herb Alternatives: Substitute parsley with basil or cilantro for a fresh herb flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until warmed through.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve these skewers with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
- Beverages: Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Yes, metal skewers work well and do not require soaking.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can cook the skewers on a grill or in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I freeze the cooked skewers?
It’s best to freeze the marinated raw chicken and then cook it fresh. Cooked skewers can become dry when reheated.
More Recipe Suggestions:
Greek Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken tenders thighs or breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
- 1 stick butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan grated
- 1 tbsp hot sauce more if desired
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley minced
- Chicken Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prep and Skewer Chicken: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. Mix chicken seasonings and set aside. Cut chicken into 3″ pieces and toss with olive oil and spices. Skewer the chicken tightly.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat butter and garlic until partially melted. Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, parsley, and parmesan. Whisk until combined.
- Cook the Chicken: Cook skewers in an air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes. Flip, baste with sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Flip again, baste, and cook for 5-6 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 165 degrees.
