Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Sizzling Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe for Summer Fun

Tender chicken pieces dance with rich, zesty flavors in these mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken skewers that promise a delightful culinary experience.

Mediterranean-inspired marinades infuse each succulent bite with incredible depth and character.

Juicy chicken chunks nestle between aromatic herbs and sharp parmesan cheese, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

The skewers cook quickly, delivering a stunning appetizer or main course that impresses with minimal effort.

Crisp edges and golden-brown surfaces hint at the delectable meal waiting to be savored.

Versatile and elegant, these skewers work beautifully for casual gatherings or sophisticated dinner parties.

Serve them hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with anticipation of the first delicious bite.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Highlights

  • Quick and Easy Meal: Whip up a delicious dinner in minimal time with simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
  • Flavor-Packed Protein: Enjoy a mouthwatering combination of garlic, parmesan, and spicy undertones that transform ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort.
  • Versatile Cooking Method: Air fryer technique ensures crispy exterior and juicy interior, making this recipe adaptable for those who love convenient, healthier cooking options without sacrificing taste.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer or Main Course: Serve these skewers as a crowd-favorite party snack or a satisfying main dish that appeals to both adults and kids, guaranteed to impress at potlucks and family dinners.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Lean protein that serves as the primary ingredient for these flavorful skewers.
Seasoning and Spices:
  • Olive Oil: Helps coat the chicken and enhances flavor absorption.
  • Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that provide depth and enhance the chicken's taste.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and spicy kick to the dish.
Sauce and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Butter: Creates a rich and creamy base for the garlic parmesan sauce.
  • Garlic: Provides a strong, aromatic flavor to the butter sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty taste and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Hot Sauce: Introduces an extra layer of heat and tanginess.
  • Parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal note to the sauce.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Wooden Skewers: Used for threading and grilling the chicken pieces.

Cooking Steps for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare Wooden Skewers

Grab wooden skewers and submerge them in cool water for a solid 30 minutes.

This prevents the skewers from burning during cooking.

Step 2: Slice and Season Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks around 3 inches long.

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite spice blend.

Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

Thread chicken pieces tightly onto the pre-soaked skewers.

Step 3: Create Flavor-Packed Butter Sauce

Combine butter and minced garlic in a microwave-safe container.

Gently warm until butter starts melting.

Whisk in these delicious ingredients:
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Hot sauce
  • Fresh parsley
  • Grated parmesan cheese

Mix until everything is beautifully blended.

Step 4: Air Fry Chicken Skewers

Set air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Place skewers inside and cook for 5 minutes.

Flip skewers and brush generously with garlic butter sauce.

Cook another 2 minutes.

Rotate again, baste with remaining sauce, and cook 5-6 minutes until chicken reaches 165 degrees internal temperature.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove skewers from air fryer.

Let rest for a couple minutes.

Plate and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to stop them from charring during cooking.
  • Toss chicken pieces thoroughly with olive oil and spices before skewering to ensure even seasoning coverage.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 165 degrees for safe and perfectly cooked chicken.
  • Whisk garlic parmesan butter sauce ingredients vigorously to create a smooth, well-blended coating for skewers.
  • Brush additional sauce over cooked skewers right before serving to enhance visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor.

Flavor Variations for Garlic Parmesan Skewers

  • Vegetarian Skewers: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, cut into cubes. Marinate in the same garlic parmesan sauce for maximum flavor and grill or air fry until crispy.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free hot sauce and ensure parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free. Swap wooden skewers with metal skewers to eliminate any potential gluten cross-contamination.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute chicken with lean turkey breast or chicken thighs for variety. Reduce red pepper flakes for milder heat and increase parmesan cheese for extra richness.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Add dried oregano and lemon zest to the original seasoning mix. Replace hot sauce with Greek yogurt and use feta cheese instead of parmesan for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Picnic Party Platter: Arrange skewers on a large wooden board with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and colorful vegetable sticks for a stunning summer gathering.
  • Mediterranean Mezze Magic: Serve alongside warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and crisp cucumber salad to create a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired meal experience.
  • Game Night Appetizer: Cut skewers into bite-sized pieces, place on toothpicks with a small drizzle of extra sauce for easy finger food during movie or sports watching.
  • Fresh Salad Companion: Place sliced skewers atop a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and light vinaigrette for a protein-packed lunch option.

Storage Advice for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Keep the sauce separate to prevent soggy chicken.
  • Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Brush with reserved sauce halfway through to maintain moisture and flavor.
  • Warm skewers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, turning once to ensure even heating and crispy exterior.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken breast or thighs for this recipe?

Chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they are leaner and cook evenly on skewers. Thighs can be used but may require slightly longer cooking time due to higher fat content.

  • Do I need an air fryer to make these skewers?

While an air fryer provides the best crispy texture, you can grill or bake the skewers. If grilling, cook over medium-high heat, and if baking, use a 425°F oven on a lined baking sheet, turning occasionally.

  • How can I prevent my chicken from drying out?

Marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil and seasonings, and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F without going over, which helps maintain moisture.

  • Is this recipe spicy?
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 53 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Sizzling garlic parmesan chicken skewers bring Mediterranean coastal flavors straight to your plate. Juicy marinated chicken chunks grilled to perfection showcase simple ingredients that deliver maximum taste with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 pounds (907 grams) chicken tenders

Chicken Seasonings:

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

Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce and Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 stick (113 grams) butter
  • 810 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • 1/3 cup (20 grams) fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Soak wooden skewers in cold water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
  2. Cut chicken into uniform 3-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking and consistent texture.
  3. Drizzle chicken pieces with olive oil, thoroughly coating each piece to enhance flavor and promote browning.
  4. Generously season chicken with prepared spice mixture, massaging the seasonings into the meat for maximum flavor absorption.
  5. Thread chicken pieces tightly onto pre-soaked skewers, ensuring compact arrangement for even heat distribution.
  6. Melt butter in microwave-safe container, heating until partially liquefied and soft.
  7. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce to melted butter, creating a robust and spicy base sauce.
  8. Incorporate fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese into the butter mixture, whisking until ingredients are fully integrated.
  9. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees fahrenheit for optimal cooking temperature.
  10. Place prepared chicken skewers in air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
  11. Cook for 5 minutes, then carefully flip skewers and generously brush with prepared garlic parmesan sauce.
  12. Continue cooking for additional 2 minutes, then flip and baste again with sauce.
  13. Cook for final 5-6 minutes, monitoring internal chicken temperature until it reaches 165 degrees.
  14. Remove skewers from air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

  • Prevent wooden skewers from burning by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading chicken.
  • Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for consistent cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
  • Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing red pepper flakes and hot sauce to suit personal heat preferences.
  • Ensure food safety by checking chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F using a digital meat thermometer for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Dinner
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 324 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 363 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0.2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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