Forget boring weeknight dinners! These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a game-changer. Imagine tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful chicken pieces, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection in your air fryer in record time. When you need dinner fast, and you want it to be absolutely delicious, this recipe is your new best friend.
Elevate Your Weeknight with Air Fryer Chicken Skewers
Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Do you constantly search for innovative ways to prepare family favorites, especially chicken? I hear you! The air fryer has revolutionized my kitchen, making it incredibly easy to transform everyday meals into something special without spending hours slaving over a hot stove or firing up the grill. These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a prime example. They deliver a burst of savory flavor and a tender texture, proving that convenience doesn’t mean compromising on taste.
Chicken is a staple in many households, and for good reason: it’s versatile, lean, and a great source of protein. But sometimes, even chicken can feel a bit monotonous. That’s where this recipe shines. It takes simple chicken breast and elevates it with a powerful combination of robust garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and a medley of aromatic herbs, all coated in melted butter. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience in flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
“Fabulous! I marinated the chicken for the afternoon. Served as a bowl meal with rice and veggies. The flavor of the chicken is amazing. A definite make again!”
– Betty
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Chicken Skewers
Absolutely! While the air fryer provides that signature crispiness and speed, you can certainly adapt this recipe for oven baking. Generally, for oven cooking, you’ll preheat your oven to a higher temperature, typically around 400-425°F (200-220°C). Arrange your marinated chicken skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, possibly with a wire rack for even cooking. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time might vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and your oven’s calibration. For detailed tips on converting air fryer recipes, check out dedicated guides on how to adapt air fryer recipes for oven use.
Yes, the stovetop is another excellent option for cooking these flavorful chicken skewers. Begin by preparing the chicken as outlined in this recipe, coating it thoroughly in the delicious marinade. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium to medium-high heat with a tablespoon or two of cooking oil (such as olive oil or avocado oil). Once hot, add the chicken skewers, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, rotating the skewers frequently to ensure all sides are beautifully browned and cooked through. Continue cooking until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F (74°C). As the chicken cooks, use a brush to apply additional garlic butter basting sauce, and give them a final brush right before serving for maximum flavor and moisture.
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of sides. The rich seasoning and buttery finish make them a standout. In my photos, you’ll often see them alongside creamy mashed potatoes, which are a fantastic comfort food pairing. However, they are equally delightful with simple fluffy rice, over a bed of al dente pasta like fettuccine or linguine, or even with couscous. For a lighter, healthier meal, consider serving them with steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette, or some grilled zucchini. A side of crusty bread to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce is also highly recommended!
The most accurate and safest way to determine if your chicken skewers are fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken piece (avoiding the skewer itself) and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep in mind that air fryer models can vary significantly in power and efficiency. Your air fryer might cook faster or slower than the one I used to develop this recipe, so always trust your thermometer over strictly adhering to timing. Regularly check the chicken to prevent overcooking, which can lead to dry, less enjoyable results.
Both wooden and metal skewers work well, and your choice often comes down to personal preference and what fits best in your cooking appliance. I generally prefer metal skewers for their reusability and heat conductivity, which can help cook the chicken more evenly from the inside out. However, if your air fryer basket isn’t wide enough for standard metal skewers, wooden skewers are a perfect alternative. If you opt for wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This crucial step helps prevent them from burning or charring excessively during the air frying process, especially at higher temperatures.
Storing leftovers properly ensures they remain safe and delicious for future meals. Once the chicken skewers have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning for longer storage, you can freeze the cooked skewers for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap individual skewers in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn and maintain their moisture and flavor.
Reheating chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but with a little care, your leftovers can be just as enjoyable. To reheat, you have a few good options:
- Oven: Wrap the skewers loosely in foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 300-325°F (150-160°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. The foil helps to retain moisture.
- Air Fryer: For a quicker reheat that can restore some crispiness, place skewers back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. Watch them carefully to prevent over-drying.
- Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can sometimes make chicken tough. Reheat briefly on a microwave-safe plate, in short bursts, until warm. Be cautious not to overcook.
No matter the method, the key is to heat them gently and just until warm to avoid drying out the delicious chicken.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Crafting these delectable chicken skewers requires a blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible depth of flavor:
- Mayonnaise: While it might seem unconventional for a marinade, mayonnaise is the secret ingredient that adds incredible moisture and helps tenderize the chicken. It also acts as a fantastic binder for the spices, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor. Trust me on this one – it makes a huge difference!
- Montreal Chicken Seasoning: This robust seasoning blend typically includes garlic, onion, paprika, and other savory notes. It’s a fantastic shortcut to complex flavor. If you don’t have it, feel free to get creative and substitute with your favorite all-purpose chicken seasoning, Italian seasoning, or a mix of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Garlic Powder: We’re doubling down on the garlic here for an intense flavor profile! Garlic powder complements the fresh minced garlic perfectly, providing a consistent, aromatic base that penetrates deep into the chicken. It’s essential for achieving that bold garlic taste.
- Cajun Seasoning: For a subtle kick and a warm, earthy undertone, Cajun seasoning is a must. Brands like ‘Slap Ya Mama’ or Tony Chachere’s are excellent choices, but any good quality Cajun blend will work. If you prefer less spice, use a milder blend or substitute with a paprika and onion powder mix. This adds a fantastic layer of complexity.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a beautiful reddish hue and a wonderfully smoky depth that enhances the overall savory profile. If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular sweet paprika can be used, though you’ll miss out on that distinctive smoky note.
- Large Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into uniform bite-sized pieces, chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly. For a slight variation and often a more economical choice, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Just remember that dark meat generally takes a little longer to cook than white meat, so adjust your air frying time and always check the internal temperature.
- Salted Butter: Used for the irresistible basting sauce, very soft salted butter is key. It melts smoothly and mixes easily with the other sauce ingredients. If your butter isn’t soft, check out these Tips to Soften Butter Quickly.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the flavor of the basting sauce and adds a vibrant pop of color. It also contributes a subtle peppery, fresh note. If fresh isn’t an option, a small amount of dried parsley can be used, though the fresh flavor and visual appeal will be slightly different.
- Fresh Garlic (Minced): For the most potent and authentic garlic flavor in the basting sauce, freshly minced garlic is highly recommended. The robust pungency of fresh garlic truly sets this recipe apart. If you’re short on time or fresh garlic isn’t available, jarred minced garlic can be a convenient substitute.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: This is a non-negotiable for the best results! Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the butter sauce, creating a rich, nutty, and savory coating. While the pre-grated variety in the green bottle will work in a pinch, it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly or delivering the same intense flavor as fresh Parmesan.
- Garlic Salt and Black Pepper: These provide fundamental seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors and bringing a balanced taste to both the marinade and the basting sauce. Adjust to your preference.
Crafting the Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping meal that’s bursting with flavor and cooked with ease:
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, Montreal chicken seasoning, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, well-blended marinade. This creamy mixture is what will infuse your chicken with incredible tenderness and flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl with the prepared marinade. Toss gently, ensuring every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated. For optimal flavor and tenderness, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavor will be. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water during this time to prevent burning.
Step 3: Prepare the Irresistible Basting Sauce
While the chicken marinates, prepare the basting sauce. In a separate small bowl, combine the very soft salted butter, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and black pepper. Stir all these ingredients together until they are well combined and create a creamy, aromatic sauce. This will be brushed over the chicken during and after cooking, adding an extra layer of richness.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken and Preheat the Air Fryer
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your chosen skewers. Arrange them so that the chicken pieces are relatively close but not tightly packed, allowing air to circulate. Before threading, double-check that your skewers fit comfortably inside your air fryer basket; you may need to trim wooden skewers to size. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the prepared skewers into the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Work in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Initial Air Frying and Basting
Cook the skewers in the preheated air fryer for 8 minutes. This initial cook time allows the chicken to start developing a beautiful crust. After 8 minutes, carefully open the air fryer. Using a pastry brush, generously baste the top side of the chicken skewers with the prepared garlic butter sauce. Flip the skewers over and baste the other side as well, ensuring every piece is coated in that delicious buttery goodness.
Step 6: Finish Cooking and Serve
Return the skewers to the air fryer and continue to cook for another 8 minutes, or until an internal meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer. Give them a final generous basting with any remaining butter sauce and sprinkle with additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flourish. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you loved these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our mouth-watering chicken and skewer recipes for easy and flavorful meal ideas:
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
- Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites
- Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
- Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Skewers
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Italian Sub Skewers
- Baked Chicken Skewers
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Sheet Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken
- Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine Alfredo
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Tender bites of chicken breast lathered in a rich garlic butter sauce, cooked to perfection on skewers in the Air Fryer for a quick and incredibly flavorful meal.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 36 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the baste:
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, very soft
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix together ¼ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, 2 Tablespoons olive oil, 1 Tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning, 1 Tablespoon garlic powder, 1 ½ teaspoons cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika until smooth.
Add in 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, and coat thoroughly in the marinade. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Prepare the basting sauce by stirring together ½ cup (1 stick) very soft salted butter, 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 Tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Ensure the skewers will fit into your air fryer basket; you may need to trim them to size if using wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the chicken skewers in a single layer in the basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Cook skewers for 8 minutes. Then, carefully open the air fryer, baste the top of the skewers generously with the butter sauce, flip them, and baste the other side.
Continue to cook for 8 more minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Once cooked, remove the skewers. Baste them again with any remaining butter sauce and top with more freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best flavor and enjoyment.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and “Essential Ingredients” sections above for common substitutions, cooking variations, and additional tips to make this recipe your own.
- For safety, always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories: 486 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 45g | Sodium: 1076mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.5g
Nutritional Disclaimer
The nutritional information provided is an estimate. As “The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, we recommend running the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator for precise values if they are critical to your dietary needs. Calorie counts and other nutritional data can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.
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