Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Flavor-Packed Recipe for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for appetizers, weeknight dinners, or even weekend barbecues, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the answer. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender, juicy chicken basted in a rich, savory garlic parmesan butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking in an air fryer, oven, or grill, these skewers are guaranteed to impress.

With a 4.87-star rating from 61 votes, this recipe by Mallory Austin is a tried-and-true favorite. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to serve it as an appetizer or a main course over a bed of rice and veggies.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, including tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.
• Versatile: Cook it in an air fryer, oven, or grill—whatever works best for you.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that coats every bite.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, everyone will love these skewers.

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Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breast (cut into 3-inch pieces)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:

• 1 stick butter
• 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup parmesan, grated
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (add more if you like it spicy)
• 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced

For the Chicken Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Skewer the Chicken

1. Soak the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in olive oil and the seasoning mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Tightly pack the chicken onto the skewers, leaving no space between the pieces. This helps keep the chicken juicy and evenly cooked.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and garlic together until partially melted.
2. Add the Flavors: Stir in the red pepper flakes, hot sauce, parsley, and parmesan. Whisk until well combined. If the sauce separates, add 1-2 tablespoons of softened butter and stir to re-emulsify.
3. Reserve Some Sauce: Set aside 1/3 of the sauce for basting the cooked chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Air Fryer Method:

1. Cook in Batches: Place 2-3 skewers in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 5 minutes.
2. Flip and Baste: Remove the skewers, flip them, and baste with the garlic parmesan sauce. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Final Cook: Flip the skewers again, baste with more sauce, and cook for another 5-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Finish with Sauce: Once cooked, baste the skewers with the reserved sauce and sprinkle with extra parmesan.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F.
2. Bake the Skewers: Place the skewers on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 14 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with the sauce a few times.
3. Broil for Crispiness: Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2 minutes to get the tops golden brown.
4. Final Touch: Baste with the reserved sauce and sprinkle with parmesan before serving.

Grill Method:

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high.
2. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers over direct heat and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, basting with the sauce throughout.
3. Finish with Sauce: Remove from the grill, baste with the reserved sauce, and sprinkle with parmesan.

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The Magic of Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce

The secret to the irresistible flavor of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers lies in the homemade garlic parmesan butter sauce. This sauce is a harmonious blend of rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that elevate the chicken to a whole new level. Let’s break down what makes this sauce so special.

First, the base of the sauce is butter, which provides a creamy, luxurious texture. When combined with freshly minced garlic, the butter becomes infused with a deep, aromatic flavor that’s both bold and comforting. Garlic is a powerhouse ingredient known for its ability to enhance the taste of any dish, and in this recipe, it shines brightly.

Next, grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce. Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese that melts beautifully into the butter, creating a smooth and velvety consistency. The cheese also adds a touch of umami, which complements the garlic perfectly.

To give the sauce a little kick, hot sauce and red pepper flakes are added. These ingredients introduce a subtle heat that balances the richness of the butter and parmesan. If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Finally, fresh parsley is stirred into the sauce, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Parsley not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also provides a mild, herbaceous note that rounds out the flavors.

The beauty of this sauce is its versatility. While it’s perfect for basting the chicken skewers, it can also be used as a dipping sauce or drizzled over rice and veggies. Once you try this garlic parmesan butter sauce, you’ll want to put it on everything!

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 Why Air Fryer Cooking is a Game-Changer

One of the best things about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is how well it works in an air fryer. Air fryers have become a kitchen essential for many home cooks, and for good reason. They offer a convenient, efficient, and healthier way to cook your favorite foods.

Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior without the need for excessive oil. This method is perfect for chicken skewers, as it ensures the meat stays juicy while developing a delicious golden-brown crust.

Another advantage of using an air fryer is its speed. The compact size of the appliance allows it to heat up quickly, reducing overall cooking time. In this recipe, the chicken skewers cook in just 12-14 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.

Air fryers are also incredibly easy to use. Simply set the temperature and timer, and the appliance does the rest. There’s no need to worry about flipping the skewers multiple times or monitoring them closely. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, air fryers open up a world of possibilities. From crispy fries to roasted veggies and even baked goods, this versatile appliance can handle it all. If you haven’t tried cooking with an air fryer yet, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is the perfect place to start.

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 Serving Ideas to Elevate Your Meal

While Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are some creative serving ideas to inspire you:

1. Over a Bed of Rice: Serve the skewers on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the extra garlic parmesan sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. For added nutrition, mix in some steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
2. With a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the chicken skewers with a light, refreshing salad. A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette is a great option. Alternatively, try a Caesar salad for a more indulgent pairing.
3. As an Appetizer: These skewers make a fantastic party snack or appetizer. Arrange them on a platter with a bowl of extra garlic parmesan sauce for dipping. Add some lemon wedges for a zesty touch, and watch them disappear in no time.
4. With Grilled Veggies: If you’re cooking the skewers on the grill, why not throw some veggies on there too? Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms are excellent choices. The smoky flavor of the grilled veggies pairs beautifully with the garlic parmesan chicken.
5. In a Wrap or Pita: For a fun twist, slide the chicken off the skewers and stuff it into a warm pita or tortilla. Add some lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of the garlic parmesan sauce for a quick and tasty wrap.

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Serving Suggestions

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the skewers with a side of extra garlic parmesan sauce for dipping.
• Over Rice: Pair the skewers with a bed of fluffy rice and steamed veggies for a complete meal.
• With a Salad: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a lighter option.
• As a Party Snack: These skewers are perfect for game day or potlucks.

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FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option because they’re more forgiving and tend to stay juicier.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

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Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy cooking. Whether you’re using an air fryer, oven, or grill, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and butter creates a sauce that’s irresistibly rich and savory, while the tender, juicy chicken is perfectly complemented by the smoky char from cooking.