Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these skewers combine the savory depth of garlic and parmesan with the succulence of perfectly cooked chicken. The air fryer ensures a quick and efficient cooking process, resulting in moist and flavorful bites every time. The garlic-parmesan butter sauce not only bastes the chicken during cooking but also serves as a delightful finishing touch. Whether I’m entertaining guests or preparing a weeknight dinner, these skewers are always a hit.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs chicken tenders (or thighs/breasts), cut into 3-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)

Chicken Seasonings:

2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:

1 stick (½ cup) butter
8–10 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon hot sauce
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
⅓ cup fresh parsley, minced

Directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss with the seasoning mixture until well coated.
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, packing them tightly with no space in between to ensure juiciness.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic, parmesan cheese, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and minced parsley. Stir until well combined.
Reserve one-third of the garlic parmesan butter sauce for basting during cooking.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Place 2–3 skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the skewers and baste with the reserved sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Baste once more and cook for another 5–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, brush the skewers with the remaining garlic parmesan butter sauce and sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 skewers
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 14 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with the sauce. Broil for an additional 2 minutes to achieve a golden finish.
Grill Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 5–6 minutes on each side, basting with the sauce throughout the cooking process.
Cheese Variations: I sometimes substitute parmesan with asiago or romano cheese for a different flavor profile.
Herb Additions: Adding chopped basil or thyme to the butter sauce introduces a fresh herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, I reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. I avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, I can use chicken breasts or thighs. I ensure to cut them into uniform 3-inch pieces for even cooking.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning in the air fryer?

I soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This helps prevent burning during cooking.

Can I make the garlic parmesan butter sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Before using, I gently reheat it until it’s melted and well combined.

What sides pair well with these skewers?

I often serve the skewers over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables. A fresh salad also complements them nicely.

Can I freeze the cooked skewers?

Yes, I allow the skewers to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, I thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven or air fryer.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and versatile dish that I enjoy making for various occasions. The combination of juicy chicken and rich garlic-parmesan butter sauce creates a delightful taste experience. Whether I’m hosting a party or preparing a family dinner, these skewers are always a crowd-pleaser.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 skewers
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Tender air-fried chicken skewers tossed in garlicky parmesan butter—these juicy, flavor-packed bites make the perfect party appetizer or quick dinner.

Instructions

Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.

Mix seasoning spices in a bowl. Toss chicken in olive oil and seasoning mix.

Thread seasoned chicken onto soaked skewers tightly.

In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in garlic, parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and parsley.

Reserve ⅓ of the sauce for basting.

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Place 2–3 skewers in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 minutes.

Flip, baste with reserved sauce, and cook for another 2 minutes.

Baste again, then cook for 5–6 minutes or until internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

Brush with remaining sauce before serving. Sprinkle with extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

Soak skewers to avoid burning.

Substitute parmesan with asiago or romano cheese for variety.

Add basil or thyme for an herbal twist.

Sauce can be made ahead and reheated.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Air Fryer
Method: Air Fried
Cuisine: American