Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Air fryer garlic parmesan chicken skewers offer a fantastic way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken with a bold and savory flavor without firing up the grill. This recipe combines the convenience of air frying with the rich taste of garlic and parmesan making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The skewers cook quickly and deliver a golden, flavorful crust while staying tender inside.

I first made these during a spontaneous dinner rush and was surprised how quickly it all came together. Now they are a regular request from my family because of their unbeatable flavor and quick prep.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into uniform 1inch cubes to ensure even cooking and tenderness
• Olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken while adding healthy fats
• Fresh garlic: Minced or use garlic powder to create that unmistakable savory depth
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty sharpness plus a crispy cheesy crust when sprinkled last minute; use good quality finely grated cheese for best melting
• Dried Italian herbs: Provide a fragrant blend of rosemary thyme oregano adding complexity
• Paprika: Offers a smoky subtle sweetness and beautiful color
• Salt pepper and optional red pepper flakes: Seasoning and a mild heat kick if you enjoy spice
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the final plate and adds fresh herbal notes
• Wooden skewers soaked in water: Prevent burning in the air fryer ensuring safe cooking

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Cut chicken breasts into uniform oneinch cubes. Pro tip: place chicken in the freezer for about 15 minutes beforehand to firm up the meat which makes cutting cleaner and more even pieces for consistent cooking.

Create the Marinade:

In a large bowl combine olive oil minced garlic half of the Parmesan cheese dried Italian herbs paprika salt pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk to combine into a thick paste that will coat every piece.

Marinate the Chicken:

Add chicken cubes to the marinade and toss well so each piece is fully covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes though two to four hours yields even better flavor. If short on time even 15 minutes imparts good seasoning.

Skewer the Chicken:

Thread the marinated chicken onto the presoaked wooden skewers leaving a bit of space between pieces to allow air to circulate and cook evenly. Plan for about five to six pieces per skewer depending on size.

Prepare the Air Fryer:

Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit or 193 Celsius for three minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil to avoid sticking.

Cook the Chicken Skewers:

Arrange the skewers in the basket in a single layer making sure they do not touch. Cook for six minutes then flip the skewers and cook for another six minutes until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 Fahrenheit or 74 Celsius and is golden brown.

Add Final Cheese Coating:

Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the skewers in the last two minutes of cooking. This step creates a crispy cheesy crust that gives the chicken an irresistible finish.

Garnish and Serve:

Take out the skewers from the air fryer then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Let them rest for two minutes so the juices redistribute resulting in juicier bites.

Parmesan is undoubtedly the hero ingredient here. It brings not only flavor but a wonderful crust that sets this dish apart from traditional grilled skewers. One of my fondest memories with this recipe is serving it at a family picnic where everyone raved about how juicy and flavorful the chicken was despite the simplicity of preparation.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container inside the fridge for up to three days for easy reheats. To maintain texture reheat using the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for three to four minutes. For meal prep marinate chicken and freeze uncooked skewers in ziptop bags for up to three months. Always soak wooden skewers before cooking to avoid burning and cracking in the air fryer.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts if you prefer richer flavor and more moisture. Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses work well replacing Parmesan to vary the cheesy note. Avocado oil is an excellent alternative to olive oil especially if you prefer a higher smoke point during cooking. Fresh herbs like rosemary thyme or oregano can substitute dried Italian herbs and provide vibrant aromatic flair.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these skewers with lemon herb quinoa or cauliflower rice for a light wholesome meal. A Mediterranean style Greek salad complements the bold garlic parmesan flavors beautifully. Consider serving with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing cooling dip or some warm pita bread and hummus for a heartier option.

These air fryer garlic parmesan chicken skewers are quick to make and deliver big flavor. Theyre perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make these chicken skewers without an air fryer?

Absolutely, they can be baked in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, or grilled over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for a smoky flavor.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is best; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C). The meat should be opaque with no pinkness visible inside.

→ Can I prepare these skewers in advance for a party?

Yes, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and thread onto skewers a few hours before cooking. Keep covered in the refrigerator until ready.

→ What if I don’t have wooden skewers?

Metal skewers work well without soaking or you can cook the chicken pieces directly, turning individually for even cooking.

→ Are these suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Yes, with just 2g carbohydrates per serving, these chicken skewers fit perfectly into keto, low-carb, and other low-carb meal plans.

→ Can I double the portion size?

Yes, simply double the marinade and cook the skewers in batches to maintain proper air circulation and even cooking.