If you are looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with flavor and easy enough for any night of the week, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Tender chicken pieces are soaked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, sprinkled with nutty Parmesan, and cooked to perfection on skewers, creating a perfect harmony of crispy edges and juicy interiors. This recipe is straightforward yet so satisfying, making it a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again for gatherings or simple family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but incredibly essential to build a flavor profile that’s rich, zesty, and indulgent. Each one adds a unique touch to the dish, from the savory depth of garlic and parmesan, the subtle heat of paprika and red pepper flakes, to the buttery smoothness that brings it all together.
- Chicken Tenders: Using tender cuts ensures quick cooking and juicy results every time.
- Butter: A whole stick melts down into a rich base for the garlic parmesan sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for that punch of sharp, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
- Parmesan: Grated to sprinkle over and melt into the sauce, adding a salty, cheesy note.
- Hot Sauce: Just a tablespoon for a hint of tangy spice that perks up the flavor.
- Paprika: Adds warmth and color without overpowering the garlic.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic flavor for complexity.
- Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- Salt & Pepper: The basics for seasoning that bring out all the other flavors.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle for mild heat that dances on your tongue.
- Olive Oil: Helps the spices adhere and crisps up the chicken beautifully on the skewers.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled for a fresh, vibrant finish and color contrast.
- Wooden Skewers: Soaked beforehand to prevent burning during cooking.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers and Chicken
Start by soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes; this simple step prevents them from burning in the air fryer or grill. Meanwhile, cut your chicken tenders into 3-inch pieces—this size cooks evenly and is perfect for skewering.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Combine the olive oil with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in this spice mixture until well coated. This seasoning mix not only adds bold flavor but also ensures the chicken gets a lovely golden color as it cooks.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the soaked skewers. Keeping the pieces snug helps them cook evenly and stay juicy inside while crisping up beautifully on the outside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Melt the butter over low heat and stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to soften without browning. Add grated Parmesan and a splash of hot sauce, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes silky and aromatic. This sauce is the heart of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe, providing that irresistible garlic-cheese richness.
Step 5: Cook and Baste the Skewers
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket (or grill if preferred) and cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. During cooking, baste the chicken generously with the garlic parmesan sauce to lock in moisture and build layers of flavor. The result is perfectly cooked skewers with crispy edges and that luscious sauce coating every bite.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Once cooked, give the skewers a final brush of the sauce, sprinkle them with extra grated Parmesan, and top with chopped fresh parsley. This final touch not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful pop of green, making the dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a burst of color and a mild herbaceous note. For an extra touch, consider adding lemon wedges to squeeze over the skewers — the citrus balances the richness beautifully. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes can elevate the heat for those who love a little kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a crisp green salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or a simple couscous for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf complement the savory chicken perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skewers on a wooden cutting board with small bowls of extra garlic parmesan sauce and hot sauce to let guests customize their bites. Alternatively, thread the chicken onto smaller skewers as party appetizers, or lay the cooked chicken atop toasted baguette slices with a drizzle of sauce for a delightful bruschetta-style appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately to maintain its vibrant flavor and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the skewers, remove them from the skewers before freezing and place the cooked chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken skewers in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Baste with a little extra garlic parmesan sauce after reheating to restore their luscious flavor and moisture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut chicken breasts into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Chicken tenders are preferred for their tenderness, but chicken breasts work well too if not overcooked.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can grill or bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway. Just keep an eye on them to prevent drying out.
Is the hot sauce necessary?
The hot sauce adds a subtle tangy heat that balances the richness of the garlic parmesan sauce, but if you prefer no spice, feel free to omit it or reduce the amount.
How do I prevent the wooden skewers from burning?
Soaking the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking is key to preventing them from burning, especially when using an air fryer or grill.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the garlic parmesan sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Rewarm gently before using to baste the skewers.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about biting into these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe—juicy, flavorful chicken coated in a rich, garlicky, cheesy sauce that feels both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to earn you rave reviews. Give it a try soon; your taste buds will thank you for it!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or main dish. Juicy chicken tenders are seasoned with a blend of spices, grilled to perfection in an air fryer, and basted with a rich garlic parmesan butter sauce. Finished with fresh parsley and extra parmesan for a deliciously crispy and cheesy bite.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers
- 1 lb chicken tenders, cut into 3-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter
- 8–10 cloves garlic, minced
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste (approximately ½ cup)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Soak the Skewers: Begin by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken tender pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Toss well to coat evenly with the seasoning blend.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the soaked wooden skewers to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and hot sauce until fully combined.
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for about 10-12 minutes, basting with the garlic parmesan sauce halfway through the cooking time. Cook until the chicken is golden, crispy on the outside, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, give the skewers a final brush of the sauce, then sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning in the air fryer.
- You can substitute chicken tenders with boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into similar-sized pieces.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes for desired spice levels.
- Make sure to baste the skewers during cooking to keep them moist and flavorful.
- These skewers can be served with a side of fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
