Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Hello, food lovers! If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that combines the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan with the juicy tenderness of chicken, you’re in for a treat. These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also a healthier way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful dish. Perfect for dinner, parties, or as a quick snack, they’re sure to become a household favorite!

Introduction

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to frying without sacrificing flavor or texture. This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe takes full advantage of that, combining a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior. Packed with savory garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, these skewers are a perfect balance of indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you’ll need the following:

2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breast: Choose your favorite cut for tender, juicy results.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick to the chicken.
1 stick butter: For a rich, buttery glaze.
8-10 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the flavor profile, providing a bold, savory taste.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan: For a cheesy, umami-rich coating.
1 tbsp hot sauce (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat.
2 tsp red pepper flakes: For a bit of spice and depth.
1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced: Brightens up the flavors and adds a fresh note.
2 tsp paprika: Contributes a smoky undertone.
1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall garlic flavor.
1 tsp onion powder: Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances all the flavors.
1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a mild heat and enhances the seasoning.

Directions

Follow these steps to create your own Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

Prepare the Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set this mixture aside.
Season the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 3-inch pieces. Toss them in olive oil along with the seasoning mixture until well coated.
Thread the Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the skewers. Trim the tops of the skewers if necessary to fit in your air fryer.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the butter with minced garlic. Heat until the butter is partially melted. Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce (if using), parsley, and Parmesan, whisking everything together.
Reserve Sauce for Basting: Reserve 1/3 of the sauce for basting while cooking. Set aside the remaining sauce to use for brushing after cooking.
Cook in the Air Fryer: Place 2-3 skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook at 400°F for about 5 minutes.
Baste and Flip: Flip the skewers, baste them with the reserved sauce, and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
Final Cooking Stage: Flip the skewers once more, baste again, and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The total cooking time should be approximately 12-14 minutes.
Finish with Sauce and Parmesan: Brush the skewers with the reserved sauce one last time and sprinkle with extra Parmesan before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the skewers hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Helpful Tips

Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cutting the chicken into even-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking the skewers in batches allows them to crisp up properly in the air fryer.
Extra Sauce: Serve with a side of the garlic butter sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.
Marinate for More Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the seasoning mixture for 15-20 minutes for deeper flavor penetration.

Cooking Tips

Alternative Skewers: If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal ones work just as well and don’t require soaking.
Customizing Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and better texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these skewers with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. They also work wonderfully as a standalone snack, served with dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 420mg
Potassium: 400mg
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 6%
Calcium: 12%
Iron: 4%

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: To reheat, place the skewers back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F, or microwave them on medium power until warmed through.

Repurpose Leftovers: Remove the chicken from the skewers and use it in wraps, salads, or pasta dishes for a quick and flavorful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other meats? Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or pork for a different take on this recipe.

Can I skip the Parmesan? If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can use grated mozzarella or Pecorino Romano as alternatives.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can bake the skewers in the oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Conclusion

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful combination of juicy chicken, bold garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. This versatile dish is perfect for any occasion, offering incredible flavor with minimal effort. Try it out and bring a new favorite to your dinner table. Let us know how yours turned out, and enjoy every bite!