Introduction
If you’re craving something that combines the irresistible flavors of garlic, parmesan, and perfectly cooked chicken, then you’re in for a treat with these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. I first tried making chicken skewers in the air fryer when I wanted a quick, no-mess meal that would satisfy both my need for flavor and my craving for something healthy. I thought, why not bring the crispy, cheesy goodness of garlic parmesan to juicy chicken? It was a match made in heaven.
The beauty of cooking these skewers in the air fryer is the perfect balance between crispy, garlicky crust and tender, juicy chicken. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these skewers quickly became one of my go-to weeknight meals. They’re so easy to make and cook up in just 15 minutes. Plus, they’re great for meal prep or serving guests—they’re quick, delicious, and full of flavor.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a main course, these garlic parmesan chicken skewers will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds (or thirds!). They are also incredibly customizable, so you can adjust the flavors to suit your preferences, making them perfect for any occasion.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
Versatile
You can enjoy these skewers as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, over rice, or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Budget-friendly
Using chicken breast and a few pantry staples, this recipe is easy on the wallet while still delivering big flavor.
Ingredients for the recipe
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
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Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes) or metal skewers
How to make this recipe
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Prep the chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches each. This size ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy in the air fryer. After cutting, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps the seasonings stick and ensures a crispier texture.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken pieces into the bowl, making sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Let the chicken sit for at least 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors, or you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours if you have more time to spare.
Step 3: Assemble the skewers
While the chicken marinates, prepare your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning in the air fryer. Once your skewers are ready, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure they’re spaced evenly. This helps them cook more uniformly. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip the soaking step.
Step 4: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If your air fryer requires preheating, this step is crucial to ensure even cooking. While the air fryer is heating up, lightly grease the basket or tray with a bit of cooking spray or a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent the skewers from sticking.
Step 5: Air fry the chicken skewers
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the chicken skewers in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the skewers in batches. Air fry the chicken for 10–12 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
Keep an eye on the chicken during cooking—it should turn golden brown on the outside, while the interior remains juicy and tender. If you’re unsure whether it’s fully cooked, you can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Add the parmesan
When the chicken skewers are almost done, remove them from the air fryer and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the hot chicken. You can return the skewers to the air fryer for an additional 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese, giving it that golden, cheesy crust. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the parmesan on top and let the heat from the chicken melt it naturally.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Once the parmesan has melted to perfection, remove the skewers from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the skewers hot with your favorite dipping sauce—whether it’s ranch, a spicy aioli, or something tangy like a lemon-tahini sauce.
Quick and easy
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner plan. From start to finish, it takes only about 25 minutes to prepare and cook, which makes it perfect for those days when you’re craving something flavorful but don’t have a lot of time to spare.
You’ll love how the air fryer works its magic to create crispy, golden chicken without all the oil and mess of traditional frying. It’s a healthier alternative without compromising on taste or texture.
Customizable
Like to experiment with flavors? You can easily switch up the spices and seasonings to suit your taste. Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like some heat, or throw in some fresh lemon zest for a citrusy twist. If you’re a fan of herbs, feel free to mix in some fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an herb-infused chicken skewer.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, serve these skewers with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. Or, pair them with some fluffy rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for guests
These chicken skewers are an excellent choice for a crowd. They’re easy to serve and fun to eat, making them ideal for parties, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. The skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Imagine them served on a platter, drizzled with melted parmesan and sprinkled with fresh parsley. Your guests will be impressed, and you’ll get all the credit for creating such a flavorful dish with minimal effort.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer than breasts to cook through.
Can I make these skewers without an air fryer?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can grill or bake these skewers in the oven. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway. For the oven, place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This makes the recipe even more convenient for meal prep or entertaining.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.
What can I serve with these chicken skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or some crispy roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.