If you’re craving something bursting with flavor yet incredibly easy to whip up, the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with a perfect blend of garlic and herbs, kissed by the crispy, golden finish that only an air fryer can deliver. This dish marries savory, buttery garlic goodness with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and rich Parmesan, creating a perfect balance that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these chicken skewers promise a deliciously satisfying meal every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the high-quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each item plays its part to ensure the chicken is flavorful, tender, and deliciously satisfying.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing seasonings and staying moist.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning: Brings a robust blend of savory flavors straight to the chicken.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Helps coat the chicken for even seasoning and keeps it from sticking to the skewers.
- 6 skewers, metal or bamboo: Essential for threading the chicken; bamboo requires soaking to avoid burning.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates the rich, creamy garlic Parmesan butter that elevates the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Adds a punch of fresh, aromatic garlicky goodness.
- 1 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning: Blends seamlessly into the butter for extra flavor depth.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley: Lends a fresh, vibrant burst of color and light herbal notes.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that makes the butter irresistible.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers
Start by soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking. If you’re using metal skewers, there’s no need to soak. Make sure your skewers will comfortably fit inside your air fryer basket to allow even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic and herb seasoning generously over the chicken, then toss everything together until all the pieces are coated beautifully. This step is key to layering in all those tasty flavors right from the beginning.
Step 3: Thread Chicken Onto Skewers
Grab your soaked skewers and thread about 7 to 8 chicken chunks onto each one, making sure the pieces are snug but not too tight. This will help the chicken cook evenly and get that perfect, crispy outside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the skewers in the basket and air fry for 8 minutes. This initial cook helps start browning and seals in the juices, preparing the chicken for a flavor boost in the next step.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter
While the chicken is cooking, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, garlic and herb seasoning, kosher salt, freshly chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it until the butter is smooth and all the flavors are well blended. This butter is the superstar that takes these skewers to the next level.
Step 6: Finish Cooking with Garlic Butter
After 8 minutes, carefully flip each skewer over. Brush the chicken thoroughly with the garlic Parmesan butter you prepared. Return the skewers to the air fryer and cook for an additional 7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 7: Brush and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer and give them one last generous brush of the garlic Parmesan butter. Serve hot for the juiciest, most flavorful experience. This final touch keeps every bite tender and bursting with garlic-infused buttery goodness.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top just before serving adds a vibrant pop of color and a subtle herbal lift that brightens each bite. You can also add a dusting of extra grated Parmesan for a little more cheesy richness that complements the garlic butter perfectly.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with crisp, refreshing salads like a simple mixed greens blend or a tangy cucumber and tomato salad. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables provide a cozy contrast to the bright flavors of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or beside a warm pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. You can also place the skewers on a wooden board surrounded by lemon wedges, encouraging everyone to add a splash of zest that complements the garlic and Parmesan flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and maintain their flavor nicely, making for convenient next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep these skewers longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months, ready to be reheated whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skewers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This method revives the crispy texture and ensures the chicken is heated evenly. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that delicious outer crisp intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to be leaner and might dry out faster. Be sure to adjust cooking time slightly and keep a close eye to maintain juiciness.
Do I have to use bamboo skewers?
No, metal skewers work just as well and don’t require soaking. The choice is yours based on what you have available and your personal preference.
Can I make the garlic Parmesan butter in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before brushing it on the chicken, so it spreads easily.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Definitely. This recipe is low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it an excellent choice for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can cook these skewers on a grill or in the oven at 425°F, but cooking time and texture may vary slightly. The air fryer gives a crispy finish that’s hard to beat!
Final Thoughts
Trying the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is like inviting a comforting, flavorful hug right into your kitchen. Its perfect marriage of garlicky butter, fresh herbs, and tender chicken will have you coming back for seconds and impressing anyone lucky enough to join you at the table. Give this recipe a whirl and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your meal rotation!
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with garlic and herbs, skewered, and air fried to crispy perfection. Coated in a rich garlic parmesan butter sauce, these skewers are bursting with savory flavor and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 6 skewers, metal or bamboo
Garlic Parmesan Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using to prevent burning during cooking. If using metal skewers, soaking is not necessary. Ensure the skewers fit comfortably in your air fryer basket.
- Season Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil and garlic and herb seasoning thoroughly until each piece is well coated to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Thread Chicken: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the skewers, placing about 7-8 pieces per skewer for even cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Cook Chicken – First Stage: Place the skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes to start browning and cooking the chicken.
- Make Garlic Parmesan Butter: While the chicken cooks, combine softened butter, minced garlic, garlic and herb seasoning, kosher salt, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Continue Cooking: After 8 minutes, flip the skewers over and brush generously with the garlic parmesan butter. Air fry for an additional 7 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Brush and Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer, brush them with extra garlic parmesan butter for rich flavor, and serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
- If using bamboo skewers, always soak them to avoid burning during cooking.
- Adjust garlic and herb seasoning quantity to your taste preference for more or less garlicky flavor.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
