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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.3 from 1 review

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or main dish, featuring juicy chicken coated in a rich garlic butter and Parmesan sauce with a spicy kick from hot sauce and red pepper flakes. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a quick and delicious meal or snack.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breast, cut into 3” pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce

  • 1 stick butter (8 tbsp)
  • 810 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced

Instructions

  1. Prep and Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
  2. Mix Seasonings and Prepare Chicken: Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil and the seasoning mix until well coated.
  3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the chicken pieces tightly onto soaked skewers with no gaps to maximize juiciness. Trim skewers if necessary to fit in the air fryer.
  4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the butter and minced garlic until the butter is partially melted. Stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan. Whisk until combined and smooth. If the sauce separates, add 1-2 tablespoons softened butter and stir to re-emulsify.
  5. Baste Chicken Before Cooking: Reserve about 1/3 of the sauce for initial basting. Use a clean brush to generously baste the partially cooked chicken to build flavor.
  6. Cook the Chicken in Air Fryer: Place 2-3 skewers in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Flip the skewers, baste with reserved sauce, and cook for 2 more minutes. Flip again, baste once more, and cook an additional 5-6 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Total cook time is approximately 12-14 minutes but may vary by air fryer.
  7. Final Baste and Serve: After cooking, brush the skewers with the remaining clean sauce to avoid cross-contamination. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers prevents burning during air frying.
  • Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer’s size and power; always check internal temperature for safety.
  • If using metal skewers, soaking is not necessary.
  • Adjust hot sauce and red pepper flakes amount to your desired spice level.
  • Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
  • Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.