If you are craving a dish that brings together bold flavors with effortless cooking, then you are going to love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. These skewers are bursting with juicy, tender chicken pieces coated in a savory blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, they develop an irresistible crisp outside while staying beautifully moist inside. Everyone at the table will be reaching for seconds once they taste this flavorful, easy-to-make favorite that combines wholesome ingredients with a rich, cheesy finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers is delightfully simple. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s for seasoning, moisture, or that unbeatable cheesy garlic kick.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when air fried.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning cling and gives the chicken a golden finish.
- 2 tablespoons chicken seasoning: Adds depth and warmth to every bite; feel free to use your favorite blend or homemade mix.
- ½ cup garlic parmesan sauce: The magic touch, infusing creamy, savory flavor directly into the chicken.
- Optional garnishes – chopped parsley and grated parmesan: Brighten the plate and enhance the cheesy garlic punch just before serving.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces—this ensures even cooking and juicy bites. Toss the chicken with olive oil first to lock in moisture, then generously coat it with the chicken seasoning so every piece is bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto 6-inch bamboo skewers—about four pieces per skewer works perfectly to fit your air fryer basket and cook evenly. This step is key for that fun presentation and easy flipping.
Step 3: Air Fry the Skewers
Place the skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket—depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook them in two batches. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to develop a beautiful crispy exterior while staying juicy inside.
Step 4: Brush with Garlic Parmesan Sauce and Finish Cooking
After 10 minutes, carefully flip the skewers over and brush on the luscious garlic parmesan sauce. Air fry for an additional 2 minutes at 400 degrees. This last step caramelizes the sauce slightly and seals in incredible flavor.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Remove the skewers from the air fryer and brush with any remaining sauce for an extra punch of flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated parmesan to brighten the dish and add that irresistible cheesy aroma.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley lends a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich garlic and parmesan. A final dusting of freshly grated parmesan cheese intensifies the creamy, nutty flavors for a restaurant-quality finish.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with a crisp garden salad, garlic butter roasted vegetables, or even a creamy mashed potato to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a lighter feel, serve alongside quinoa or a tangy slaw to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, arrange the skewers on a long platter with small bowls of extra garlic parmesan sauce for dipping. Add lemon wedges around the edges for a zesty twist. Or, serve skewers atop a bed of cooked grains for a hearty main dish that’s visually stunning and incredibly tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and chances are you might!), store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep any extra garlic parmesan sauce separate until ready to reheat to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled skewers on a baking sheet and freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together. They keep well for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge for easy meals anytime.
Reheating
Reheat the skewers in your air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, brushing with fresh garlic parmesan sauce to refresh the flavor. Alternatively, reheat gently in the oven to retain their juicy texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully here because they stay extra juicy and flavorful, especially when cooked quickly in an air fryer. Just cut them into the same size pieces as breasts for even cooking.
Is it necessary to use an air fryer for this recipe?
While the air fryer is the easiest way to get a crispy exterior quickly, you can also grill these skewers or bake them in the oven. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and keep an eye to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Definitely! You can season and skewer the chicken a few hours before cooking. Keep them refrigerated and covered so they stay fresh, then air fry just before serving to maintain that crisp, juicy texture.
What if I don’t have garlic parmesan sauce ready?
You can whip up a quick version by mixing mayonnaise, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lemon, and a bit of salt and pepper. It won’t be the exact same depth but still delicious for brushing onto the skewers.
Are these skewers suitable for a party or gathering?
Yes, they are fantastic for entertaining! Finger-friendly, packed with flavor, and quick to cook in batches, these skewers are sure to impress your guests and disappear fast.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe combines simplicity with crowd-pleasing flavor. It’s fast to make, easy to customize, and absolutely delicious every time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite on your table too!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 16 skewers (serves 16)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a quick and flavorful dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing appetizer. Tender pieces of boneless, skinless chicken seasoned and air fried to juicy perfection, then brushed with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce for a rich, savory finish. Ready in just 22 minutes, this recipe offers a deliciously simple protein packed snack or meal option.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chicken seasoning (a blend of herbs and spices; recipe link)
Sauce
- ½ cup garlic parmesan sauce (creamy, savory sauce; recipe link)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. Toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Next, sprinkle the chicken seasoning over the pieces and mix well to distribute the flavors.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto 6-inch bamboo skewers, placing 4 pieces per skewer. Make sure the skewers will fit inside your air fryer basket comfortably.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange the skewers in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches (the referenced 6-quart model fits about 8 skewers at a time).
- Flip and Sauce: After 10 minutes, carefully open the air fryer and flip each chicken skewer. Brush the garlic parmesan sauce generously over the chicken pieces. Return the skewers to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes at 400°F.
- Serve: Remove the chicken skewers from the air fryer. Brush with any remaining garlic parmesan sauce for extra flavor. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese for added color and taste.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat, or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- If bamboo skewers are not pre-soaked, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
- Cook skewers in batches if your air fryer basket is small to ensure even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, you can add a light spray of cooking oil before air frying.
- Garlic parmesan sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese to enhance presentation and flavor.
