Sizzling Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Succulent chicken takes a delightful turn with these air fryer garlic parmesan chicken skewers that promise a crispy, flavor-packed experience.

The golden-brown edges and aromatic garlic dance together in perfect harmony.

Tender chicken pieces get coated in a rich blend of savory parmesan and herbs, creating an irresistible meal that comes together in minutes.

Each skewer delivers a burst of Mediterranean-inspired goodness that elevates weeknight dinners from ordinary to extraordinary.

The air fryer works its magic, ensuring every bite is perfectly cooked and wonderfully crisp.

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these skewers are a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick and delicious protein option.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next culinary adventure.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Features

• Whip Up Quickly: Minimal prep steps and short cooking time make these skewers perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Boost Flavor Effortlessly: Garlic, parmesan, and red pepper flakes create a mouthwatering combination that elevates simple chicken into a gourmet experience.
• Master No-Fuss Cooking: Air fryer technique ensures crispy exterior and juicy interior without complicated cooking methods, making it ideal for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows swapping ingredients or adjusting spice levels to suit personal taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Chicken: Tender pieces that form the main protein of the skewers.

• Olive Oil: Helps coat chicken and promotes even seasoning.
• Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes: Adds bold and spicy flavor to the chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich, savory taste to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and helps balance the flavors.
• Parsley: Adds fresh herbal notes to the final dish.

• Wooden Skewers: Used to hold chicken pieces together during cooking.
• Butter: Creates a smooth base for the finishing sauce.

Steps to Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Skewers

Step 1: Prepare Wooden Skewers

Grab your wooden skewers and submerge them completely in cold water.

Let them soak for half an hour to prevent any burning during cooking.

This simple trick keeps your skewers from catching fire in the air fryer.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Coating

• Olive oil
• Dried herbs
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Toss chicken pieces into the mixture, ensuring each piece gets a delicious, even coating of seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble Skewered Delight

Carefully thread chicken pieces onto pre-soaked skewers, positioning them close together.

This technique helps lock in moisture and ensures even cooking.

Trim skewer ends if necessary to fit your air fryer basket perfectly.

Step 4: Craft Zesty Parmesan Sauce

Melt butter in a small saucepan over gentle heat.

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring until aromatic.

Remove from heat and let cool briefly.

• Grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh lemon juice
• Chopped parsley

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat air fryer to 400°F.

Cook skewers for 6-7 minutes, then carefully flip.

Brush with half the prepared sauce and continue cooking for another 6-7 minutes.

Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 6: Final Flourish

Brush skewers with remaining sauce and sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top.

Serve immediately while hot and bursting with flavor.

Helpful Tips for Chicken Skewers Success

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading chicken to avoid charring in the air fryer.
• Thoroughly massage seasoned oil into chicken pieces to ensure every bite is packed with delicious herbs and spices.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken reaches 165F internally, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked protein.
• Brush sauce midway and at the end of cooking to create layers of rich, tangy garlic parmesan flavor without burning.
• Trim skewer ends if needed to ensure even cooking and proper fit inside your air fryer basket.

Chicken Skewer Options and Flavors

• Spicy Mediterranean Skewers: Replace parmesan with crumbled feta cheese and add dried oregano, mint, and za'atar spice blend for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Swap chicken for low-carb chicken thighs, use almond flour instead of traditional breading, and increase garlic and herbs for extra flavor intensity.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh cubes, marinate in same seasoning mix, and adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking plant-based protein.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and verify parmesan cheese is not processed with gluten-containing ingredients.

Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Serving Ideas

• Flavor Explosion Platter: Arrange skewers on a large wooden board with fresh herbs scattered around, creating a rustic, appetizing presentation that highlights the golden-brown chicken.
• Mediterranean Mezze Style: Serve alongside warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a crisp cucumber salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal that complements the garlic parmesan flavors.
• Party Appetizer Twist: Cut skewers into smaller pieces, place on toothpicks with a small dollop of sauce, perfect for cocktail parties or game night gatherings where guests can easily grab and enjoy.
• Summer Grill Companion: Pair with a light quinoa salad, grilled vegetables, or a zesty citrus slaw to balance the rich, cheesy chicken and add freshness to the dish.

Storing Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Fresh

• Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow skewers to reach room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and maintain texture.
• Warm skewers in air fryer at 350F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave to prevent rubbery texture.
• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

• What ingredients do I need for garlic parmesan coating?

You’ll need butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, grated parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon juice to create a delicious and flavorful sauce.

• Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

Yes, metal skewers work perfectly fine. They conduct heat well and eliminate the need to soak them in water before cooking.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F, which ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.

• Is an air fryer necessary for this recipe?

While an air fryer provides crispy results, you can also grill or bake these skewers. Adjust cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure chicken is cooked through.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mouthwatering Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers bring Mediterranean zest to your dinner table. Crispy, herbed chicken bites deliver irresistible flavor you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut in 3-inch chunks

Seasonings and Spices:

• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cooking and Finishing Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon green Tabasco sauce
• 1 stick (1/2 cup or 113 grams) unsalted butter
• 10 garlic cloves, minced fresh
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly grated parmesan
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Immerse wooden skewers in cold water for half an hour to prevent charring during cooking.
2. Whisk oil with selected seasonings in a mixing container. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces to ensure even flavor distribution.
3. Carefully thread chicken onto skewers, positioning pieces snugly to maintain moisture and compact presentation. Trim skewer ends if necessary to fit air fryer basket.
4. Create sauce by gently heating butter until melted. Sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes until aromatic, releasing their intense flavors. Allow mixture to cool slightly, then incorporate grated cheese, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Arrange skewers in basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 6-7 minutes, then carefully flip. Generously brush with prepared sauce and continue cooking for additional 6-7 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
6. Remove skewers from air fryer and apply final layer of sauce. Garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese before serving hot, creating a rich and flavorful presentation.

Notes

• Prevent Skewer Burning by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading chicken, which stops them from charring in the air fryer.
• Maximize Flavor Absorption by marinating chicken in seasoned oil for 15-30 minutes before cooking, allowing spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
• Ensure Even Cooking by arranging chicken pieces tightly on skewers and not overcrowding the air fryer basket, which helps achieve consistent golden-brown exterior and juicy interior.
• Customize Dietary Needs by substituting butter with olive oil for a lighter version, using gluten-free cheese for sensitive diets, or swapping chicken with tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 445
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 37 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg