Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Fall-apart Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of flavor and convenience. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also deliver a delightful taste that’s hard to resist. Ideal for appetizers, family dinners, or even summer barbecues, they can be served on their own or over rice and veggies. With a homemade garlic parmesan sauce that keeps the chicken juicy and tender, this recipe is sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a rich taste that elevates chicken to new heights.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, these skewers are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer or over rice with veggies for a complete meal.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
• Air Fryer Friendly: Enjoy crispy, juicy chicken without the need for deep frying.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can significantly ease your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Basting brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks chicken evenly while keeping it juicy inside and crispy outside.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl makes it easy to combine all ingredients and marinate the chicken thoroughly.
• Basting brush: Using a basting brush helps ensure every skewer is coated perfectly in the garlic parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

For these flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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 olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, grated parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the chicken marinates, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Leave some space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook in Air Fryer

Place skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baste with leftover marinade during cooking for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through and golden brown, remove from air fryer. Serve immediately as an appetizer or over rice with veggies spread with leftover garlic parmesan butter.

Enjoy your homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a family dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm with toothpicks for easy eating.
• Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.

Over Rice

• Place skewers on a bed of fluffy rice for a filling main dish.
• Drizzle any leftover garlic parmesan butter over the rice for added flavor.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Complement the skewers with grilled seasonal vegetables.
• Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken from the skewers and use it as a taco filling.
• Add fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime for extra zest.

On Salads

• Slice the cooked chicken and toss it onto a fresh salad.
• This adds protein and flavor to your greens, making it more satisfying.

As Part of a Platter

• Include skewers on a charcuterie board with cheeses and olives.
• This makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

To achieve perfectly cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the Right Chicken: Use tender cuts like chicken tenders or thighs for juiciness.
• Marinate Ahead: Allow the chicken to marinate in the garlic parmesan sauce for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Ensuring your air fryer is hot before cooking helps achieve a crispy exterior.
• Baste Regularly: Brush with garlic parmesan butter while cooking for maximum flavor infusion.
• Skewer Evenly: Ensure pieces are similar in size for even cooking throughout.
• Let It Rest: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair well with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic complements the skewers beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch next to the savory chicken.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that balances well with the dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the skewers.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor, especially when brushed with garlic butter.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables is nutritious and pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome.

• Not marinating long enough – Failing to marinate the chicken in the garlic parmesan sauce for at least 30 minutes can lead to bland flavors. Always give it time to soak up those delicious tastes.
• Using dry chicken – Overcooking the chicken skewers can make them dry and tough. Keep a close eye on cooking times and use a meat thermometer for best results.
• Skipping the preheating – Not preheating your air fryer or grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your appliance to ensure even heat distribution.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness – Using stale garlic or old parmesan can diminish flavor. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste, so choose wisely!
• Overloading skewers – Packing too many pieces of chicken on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s space between each piece for proper airflow.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These skewers can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the skewers on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook the skewers for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best chicken cut for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Chicken thighs are recommended due to their juiciness. However, breasts or tenders work well too!

How spicy are these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

The spice level depends on how much hot sauce you add. Adjust it according to your taste preferences.

Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes! You can bake these skewers at 400°F (200°C) on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes.

How do I customize my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini between the chicken pieces for added flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent appetizer or main dish when served over rice and veggies. Experiment with different spices or vegetables to make this recipe your own! Don’t hesitate; give this easy and flavorful dish a try today!