Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep Time
15 minutes
Marinating Time
30 minutes (optional)
Cook Time
12–15 minutes
Total Time
30–45 minutes
Servings
4–6
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
For the Garlic-Parmesan Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For Garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine:
- Chicken cubes
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Onion powder
Mix well until all pieces are evenly coated.
Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes if time permits for even more flavor.
Step 3: Make the Garlic-Parmesan Butter
In a small bowl, combine:
- Melted butter
- Minced garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Lemon juice
Stir until thoroughly mixed.
Reserve about one-third of the mixture for brushing after cooking.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
Brush the chicken generously with the garlic-Parmesan butter mixture.
Step 5: Air Fry the Skewers
Arrange the skewers in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.
Brush with additional garlic-Parmesan butter when turning.
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Remove the skewers from the air fryer.
Brush with the reserved garlic-Parmesan butter.
Sprinkle generously with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken skewers pair perfectly with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Rice pilaf
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Pasta Alfredo
- Grilled corn
- Mediterranean salad
- Garlic bread
Tips for the Best Chicken Skewers
Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness
Chicken thighs remain incredibly tender and flavorful during air frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
Fresh Parmesan Works Best
Freshly grated Parmesan melts and adheres to the chicken better than pre-shredded cheese.
Turn Halfway Through
Flipping ensures even browning and cooking on all sides.
Use a Thermometer
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Add More Flavor
Mix a little smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning into the butter for a smoky kick.
Variations
Spicy Garlic-Parmesan Skewers
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
Lemon Garlic-Parmesan Skewers
Increase the lemon juice and add lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
Herb Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Add fresh basil, oregano, or thyme to the garlic butter.
Garlic-Parmesan Vegetable Skewers
Alternate chicken pieces with bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked chicken skewers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes or until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy air fryer meal
- Juicy, tender chicken every time
- Rich garlic-butter and Parmesan flavor
- Perfect for meal prep and entertaining
- Family-friendly and protein-packed
- Minimal cleanup required
These Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a rich garlic-Parmesan butter that makes every bite irresistible. They’re an easy, flavorful meal that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
