If you are craving a dish that combines bold flavors with juicy, tender chicken, let me introduce you to the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. This delightful meal brings together the garlicky richness of Parmesan, fragrant herbs, and succulent chicken pieces all cooked to perfection in your air fryer. Beyond being incredibly easy to prepare, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you need a burst of comfort and taste on a skewer. The magic lies in the savory garlic parmesan butter that elevates every bite, ensuring these skewers are as mouthwatering as they are visually inviting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe truly shine. Each ingredient plays its part — from the tender chicken thighs providing the perfect juicy texture, to the garlic and herb seasoning enhancing fragrance and flavor, while Parmesan adds that signature cheesy depth.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: The ideal cut for juicy and tender skewers that stay moist while cooking.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning: A flavorful blend that infuses the chicken with aromatic, savory notes.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Helps coat the chicken evenly and keeps it from drying out in the air fryer.
- 6 skewers (metal or bamboo): Essential for threading the chicken pieces; bamboo should be soaked to prevent burning.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base for the garlic parmesan butter, lending richness and silkiness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated: Delivers a punch of fresh garlic flavor, uplifting the entire dish.
- 1 Tbsp garlic and herb seasoning: Added again for extra seasoning in the buttery topping.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a vibrant, fresh herbal touch and a pop of color.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, savory finish that’s the heart of the recipe’s deliciousness.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers
Start by soaking your bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning while the chicken cooks. If you’re using metal skewers, soaking is not necessary. Next, make sure the skewers fit comfortably inside your air fryer basket for easy cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken thigh pieces with olive oil and garlic and herb seasoning until every piece is thoroughly coated. This step is essential as it infuses the chicken with flavor and helps develop a beautiful golden crust when cooked.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Carefully thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto each skewer, aiming for about 7 to 8 pieces per skewer. This ensures even cooking throughout and makes serving a breeze.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the skewers into the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes. This initial phase helps the chicken start browning and locks in moisture for juicy bites.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter
While the chicken cooks, prepare the luscious garlic parmesan butter by combining softened butter, minced garlic, garlic and herb seasoning, kosher salt, chopped fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Mix until smooth and evenly distributed. This butter will take your skewers from good to unforgettable.
Step 6: Apply Butter and Continue Cooking
After the first 8 minutes, flip the skewers to ensure even cooking. Generously brush the chicken with the garlic parmesan butter, then air fry for an additional 7 minutes. Cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F guarantees the chicken is perfectly done and safe to eat.
Step 7: Finish with Extra Garlic Parmesan Butter
Once the skewers are out of the air fryer, give them a final brush with the remaining garlic parmesan butter. This final touch adds extra richness and that irresistible garlicky sheen that makes these chicken skewers truly special.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top brightens the plate with color and a fresh herbal note, while an extra dusting of Parmesan can bring an added savory punch. For a hint of zest, a drizzle of lemon juice works beautifully.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider a crisp green salad for freshness, fluffy garlic mashed potatoes for comfort, or a light quinoa salad for a healthy balance. Roasted vegetables also complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the skewers on a wooden board with small ramekins of extra garlic parmesan butter and a tangy dipping sauce. For gatherings, stack them in a beautiful fan shape or stick them vertically in a pineapple or melon half to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor without drying out the chicken.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, these skewers freeze well. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing their taste.
Reheating
To reheat, place the skewers in the air fryer at 350°F for 4 to 5 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crisp exterior and melty garlic parmesan goodness better than a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this recipe. If you use breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.
Do I need to soak metal skewers before cooking?
No, metal skewers do not need soaking. Only bamboo or wooden skewers require soaking to prevent burning during the air frying process.
Can I prepare the garlic parmesan butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic parmesan butter in advance and store it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before brushing to ensure smooth application.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. The chicken should be opaque and juices should run clear.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! These skewers hold up well in the fridge and reheat nicely, making them perfect for meal prep lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
If you love dishes packed with flavor yet simple enough to whip up after a busy day, the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is going to be your new best friend. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this recipe invites you to enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal anytime. I promise once you try these skewers, they’ll be a fixture in your dinner rotation, earning rave reviews from everyone lucky enough to taste them. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor every garlicky, cheesy, juicy bite!
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a delicious meal any day of the week. Tender chicken thighs are seasoned, skewered, and cooked to juicy perfection in the air fryer, then brushed with a rich garlic parmesan butter for an irresistible finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe offers a tasty, easy-to-make option that’s sure to impress.
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: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. Metal skewers do not require soaking. 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 until all pieces are evenly coated to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the skewers, placing about 7-8 pieces per skewer to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat and Cook Chicken: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes to begin browning and cooking the chicken.
- Prepare Garlic 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 well blended.
- Continue Cooking and Baste: After 8 minutes, flip the skewers, brush generously with the garlic parmesan butter, and air fry for an additional 7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Finish and Serve: Remove skewers from the air fryer, brush again with extra garlic parmesan butter for rich flavor, and serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning in the air fryer.
- Ensure chicken pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F for safety.
- Fresh parsley adds brightness; substitute with dried if needed but reduce the quantity.
- These skewers pair well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
