If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors with comforting richness, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken pieces threaded onto skewers, marinated with a harmonious blend of spices, then roasted and generously coated in a buttery garlic and Parmesan sauce that’s both indulgent and addictive. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe brings a deliciously savory punch with every bite, making it a true favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays its part in building layers of flavor, from the juicy chicken tenders and fragrant garlic to the sharp Parmesan and warming spices. These ingredients come together in an easy, straightforward way that ensures the best possible texture and taste.
- Chicken Tenders: 1 lb, cut into 3-inch pieces – tender and perfect for quick cooking on skewers.
- Butter: 1 stick – melts down into a rich base that carries the garlic and Parmesan flavors beautifully.
- Garlic: 8-10 cloves, minced – fresh garlic adds an irresistible punch and aroma.
- Parmesan: Grated, to taste – brings a salty, nutty depth that enhances every bite.
- Hot Sauce: 1 tablespoon – adds just a touch of heat to balance the richness.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon – gives mild smoky undertones and vibrant color.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon – layers in extra garlic flavor for maximum impact.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon – subtle sweetness that rounds out the seasoning.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Pepper: 1 teaspoon – adds a mild bite and balances the seasoning.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon – optional but fantastic for a little extra kick.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – helps the spice mix adhere to the chicken and keeps it juicy.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish – adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
- Wooden Skewers: Soaked in water for at least 30 minutes – prevents burning during cooking.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers and Season the Chicken
The first step is soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning when cooking. Meanwhile, combine all your spices — paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes — with olive oil. Toss the chicken tenders in this fragrant spice blend until every piece is well coated. Then, carefully thread the chicken onto the soaked skewers, packing them tightly so they cook evenly and hold together beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken marinates, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in minced garlic and cook gently until fragrant but not browned, as this adds a mellow garlic sweetness. Next, add the grated Parmesan and hot sauce, stirring until the sauce is silky and combined. This sauce is the star glaze that will elevate your skewers to irresistible heights.
Step 3: Cook the Skewers
If you have an air fryer, it’s your best friend for this recipe — it cooks the chicken evenly and crisps the outside without drying it. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through cooking, baste each skewer generously with the garlic Parmesan sauce to keep things moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Final Basting and Garnishing
Once cooked through and tantalizingly crispy, give your skewers one more coat of the buttery garlic Parmesan sauce. Immediately sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley for a bit of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve these skewers straight away while they are hot, juicy, and bursting with flavor!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can transform your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe from delicious to dazzling. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green but also imparts a mild, refreshing taste that balances the richness. For a little extra flair, consider freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes if you love more heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides that complement the bold flavors without overpowering them. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even buttery garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment. For a more filling meal, pair with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf to soak up all that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe doesn’t have to be ordinary. Arrange the skewers on a rustic wooden board and surround them with small bowls of dipping sauces such as ranch, extra garlic Parmesan sauce, or a spicy aioli for interactive dining. You can also thread veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell pepper pieces between chicken chunks for a colorful twist that adds freshness and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this flavorful meal, you’ll be happy to know that leftovers store beautifully. Place any uncooked, seasoned chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked skewers should be refrigerated promptly in a sealed container and eaten within 2-3 days for the best taste and safety.
Freezing
For stocking up, uncooked skewers can be frozen before cooking. Lay them flat on a baking sheet in the freezer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid, to prevent sticking. Frozen chicken skewers can last up to 1 month. Avoid freezing after cooking, as the texture and flavor may not hold up as well.
Reheating
To reheat your cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe, use a gentle method to maintain moisture and flavor. The oven or air fryer set at 350°F for 5-7 minutes works best to crisp the outside again while warming through. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used; just be sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces similar to the tenders to ensure they cook uniformly and remain juicy.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe has a gentle kick from red pepper flakes and hot sauce, but you can always adjust the heat by adding more or less according to your preference or omitting them for a milder flavor.
Can I grill these skewers instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! Grilling is a fantastic option and adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just grill on medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning regularly and basting with the sauce frequently.
How do I prevent the skewers from sticking to the grill or air fryer basket?
Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water beforehand and lightly oil the grill grates or air fryer basket. This helps prevent sticking and keeps your skewers intact during cooking.
Can I make the garlic Parmesan sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it back to room temperature or gently reheat before basting to keep its smooth texture and vibrant flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, combining simplicity and decadent flavor in one easy dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe yourself—the crispy, garlicky, cheesy perfection on a skewer is truly irresistible and worth every bite.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and crispy dish made with tender chicken tenders marinated in a blend of spices, then air fried to perfection and basted with a rich garlic parmesan butter sauce. Perfect as a quick appetizer or main course, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
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 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 (about ½ cup)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the Skewers: Start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the soaked wooden skewers, ensuring even spacing for uniform cooking.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and hot sauce, mixing until well combined to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the chicken skewers inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, basting the skewers periodically with the garlic parmesan sauce, until the chicken is crispy on the outside and fully cooked inside (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Finish and Serve: After cooking, give the skewers a final generous baste with the sauce. Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- Ensure the wooden skewers are soaked well to avoid burning in the air fryer.
- You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to make the dish milder or spicier according to taste.
- If you do not have an air fryer, the skewers can also be grilled or broiled, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Let chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to retain juices before serving.
