Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the answer when you want juicy, pull-apart chicken packed with bold flavors and a buttery finish. The air fryer makes these easy enough for a weeknight, but the irresistible garlic parmesan sauce takes them to crowd-pleaser territory perfect for parties or family dinners. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, tuck them in wraps, or pile them over rice with extra sauce, these skewers always vanish quickly in my house.

The first time I made these I could not believe how simple they were The sauce had everyone licking their fingers and now my friends beg me to bring them to potlucks

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders, thighs or breast: Juicy and tender picks the cut that looks freshest or is on sale in the store
• Olive oil: Helps seasoning cling and locks in moisture Select extra virgin for best flavor
• Butter: Forms the base of the garlic sauce Creamy unsalted gives you better control over the saltiness
• Fresh garlic: Lots of cloves means deep garlicky flavor Choose firm unblemished bulbs
• Parmesan: Freshly grated melts best and gives a nutty boost Opt for a wedge and grate right before using
• Hot sauce: Adds a gentle kick Use your favorite brand and adjust to desired heat
• Red pepper flakes: Gives a warm background spice Look for bright red flakes for freshness
• Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and color Freshly minced packs the most flavor
• Paprika: Gives rich color and slight smokiness Go for sweet or smoked style based on your preference
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Boosts savory base Choose fine powders for even seasoning
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balance and to highlight flavors Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Skewer Chicken:

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to keep them from burning during cooking In a small bowl mix together paprika garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper Cut chicken into bite size three inch pieces and toss with olive oil and seasoning mixture in a large bowl or ziptop bag so every piece is coated tightly Thread the chicken pieces close together on skewers making sure there are no gaps for extra juiciness If the skewers are too long trim the tips to fit in your air fryer

Prepare Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:

Place butter and minced garlic in a microwave safe bowl Heat in short bursts until the butter is mostly melted but still creamy Stir in red pepper flakes hot sauce minced parsley and grated parmesan Whisk until fully combined If the sauce starts to separate add a tablespoon more softened butter and whisk until smooth again Scoop out one third of the sauce and set aside for basting partially cooked chicken Always keep the rest for final basting to avoid cross contamination

Cook the Chicken:

Arrange two or three prepared skewers in your air fryer basket at a time Leave space around them for the hot air to circulate Set the temperature to four hundred degrees and cook for five minutes Flip each skewer and brush generously with the reserved sauce Return to the fryer and cook for another two minutes Flip again baste with more sauce and continue cooking for five to six minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees The total cooking time is usually twelve to fourteen minutes depending on the thickness and your air fryer

Finish and Serve:

As soon as the chicken is cooked remove the skewers and brush once more with the clean reserved portion of garlic parmesan sauce Sprinkle extra parmesan and a little chopped parsley for a fresh finish Serve hot with more sauce on the side

Pin it

Every time I make these I have to save extra sauce because my family loves dipping their vegetables and bread in it My favorite part is the melty parmesan crust that forms after the final basting step and it brings back memories of Sunday get togethers in my childhood kitchen

Storage tips

Leftover chicken skewers keep well in the fridge for up to three days Store them tightly wrapped or in an airtight container To reheat use the air fryer or oven so the edges stay crisp The garlic parmesan sauce can be refrigerated in a separate jar and gently rewarmed before serving

Ingredient substitutions

Do not have chicken breast Try boneless thighs instead for juicy results No fresh parsley Swap in basil or even a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs If you need it dairy free use a plant based butter and your favorite grated non dairy cheese

Serving suggestions

Pile the skewers over steamed rice or quinoa with roasted vegetables Tuck them into warm flatbreads with a crisp salad or serve on a platter with more parmesan sauce for dipping They are great as an addition to party spreads or game day snacks

Cultural and historical context

Garlic parmesan is a classic Italian flavor pairing Chicken skewers have a place in grilling traditions worldwide From Mediterranean souvlaki to Japanese yakitori this dish borrows the universally beloved idea of marinated meat cooked on sticks made familiar with cozy flavors

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken breast or thighs for skewers?

Both chicken breast and thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breast pieces also stay moist with proper basting.

→ What’s the best way to keep skewers from drying out?

Packing the chicken pieces tightly and frequent basting with garlic butter helps ensure succulent results.

→ How do I prep skewers for the air fryer?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning, and trim if necessary to fit your air fryer basket.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven or on the grill?

Yes, baking and grilling instructions are provided. Adjust cook times and baste with garlic butter throughout for best flavor.

→ What side dishes go well with these chicken skewers?

Try serving over rice, with grilled vegetables, or alongside a fresh green salad to soak up extra garlic parmesan sauce.