Fall-apart Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor thanks to the homemade garlic parmesan sauce. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or serve them over rice and veggies, these skewers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re simple enough for weeknight dinners and impressive enough for gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, these skewers come together quickly, making them ideal for busy nights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers on their own or over a bed of rice and veggies for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Perfect for parties or gatherings, they are sure to impress your guests.
- Air Fryer Friendly: Cooking in an air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, having the right tools is essential. Below are some recommended equipment pieces to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: Provides a quick and efficient way to cook the skewers while ensuring they remain juicy.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Necessary for holding the chicken pieces together; wooden skewers should be soaked beforehand to prevent burning.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients and marinating the chicken.
- Basting brush: Useful for evenly applying the garlic parmesan sauce during cooking.
Ingredients
For these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Skewers
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs or breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 stick butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan, grated
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Melt the butter and mix it with olive oil.
2. Add minced garlic, grated parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place your chicken in a large bowl.
- Pour half of the garlic parmesan marinade over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
- Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those flavors.
Step 3: Assemble Skewers
- Preheat your air fryer according to its instructions.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers (about 4–5 pieces per skewer).
- Use remaining marinade to baste each skewer before cooking.
Step 4: Cook in Air Fryer
- Place skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Cook at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown exterior.
- Baste again halfway through cooking for added flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove from air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these skewers make for a delightful dish that everyone will love.
As an Appetizer
- Serve these skewers warm straight off the grill or air fryer as finger food for parties.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Over Rice and Veggies
- Place the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice and steamed vegetables to create a hearty meal.
- Drizzle any leftover garlic parmesan butter on top for added richness.
In a Salad
- Chop the cooked skewers into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a fresh salad.
- Add a lemon vinaigrette to enhance the flavors of the chicken.
With Pasta
- Serve the skewers alongside pasta tossed in olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- Sprinkle additional parmesan on top for an indulgent touch.
On Sandwiches
- Slice the grilled chicken and use it as filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauces for a satisfying lunch option.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To achieve perfectly cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, follow these handy tips. They’ll help you get that delicious flavor and tenderness every time you prepare them.
- Choose the right chicken: Use chicken tenders or thighs for juiciness; they cook evenly on skewers.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate in garlic parmesan sauce overnight enhances flavor absorption.
- Preheat your cooking device: Ensure your air fryer or grill is preheated to get that perfect sear on your chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd skewers: Space out the chicken pieces on each skewer for even cooking and better texture.
- Baste frequently: Brush more sauce onto the skewers while cooking to maintain moisture and flavor richness.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Pairing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement their flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that balances well with the skewers.
- Grilled Vegetables – Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add freshness and crunch next to tender chicken.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine leaves topped with Caesar dressing provide a nice contrast to the savory skewers.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf with herbs offers a healthy, protein-packed option alongside your main dish.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy slaw adds texture and tanginess that beautifully complements the rich flavors of garlic parmesan.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with spices can soak up any extra sauce from the skewers, enhancing each bite.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offsets the savory notes of the chicken nicely.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter provides a fun, seasonal side that’s great at barbecues.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Flavoring: Skipping the marinade can lead to bland skewers. Always marinate your chicken in the garlic parmesan sauce for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium heat settings to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Overcrowding: Placing too many pieces on the skewer will lead to uneven cooking. Make sure each piece has enough space to cook properly by using separate skewers when necessary.
- Ignoring Butter: Forgetting to baste with butter can result in dry chicken skewers. Baste frequently during cooking for moisture and flavor.
- Inconsistent Sizing: Cutting chicken pieces into uneven sizes will lead to uneven cooking times. Ensure all pieces are similar in size for consistent results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, breasts, or tenders based on your preference.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended for optimal flavor absorption.
Can I cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers on the grill?
Absolutely! Follow the same instructions but grill over medium heat, basting with sauce as you cook.
What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
They pair well with rice, veggies, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or over rice and veggies, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or ingredients!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a mouthwatering delight that combines juicy chicken with a rich, homemade garlic parmesan sauce, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer at gatherings or over a bed of rice and veggies for dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. They’re not only easy to make but can also be cooked quickly in an air fryer, ensuring a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. With just the right blend of garlic and parmesan flavors, these skewers will be a hit with family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken (tenders, thighs, or breast)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 stick butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and combine it with olive oil, minced garlic, grated parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken in half of the garlic parmesan mixture for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer; thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Cook in the air fryer at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (113g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
