Fall-apart Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat you can enjoy as an appetizer or main dish. These skewers are coated with a rich homemade garlic parmesan sauce that keeps them juicy and flavorful. Perfect for gatherings, they shine at parties and family dinners alike. Plus, you can easily prepare them in an air fryer for a quick meal any day of the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Burst: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and spices creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Easy Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip these skewers up quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a tasty appetizer or over rice and veggies for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly: These skewers are a hit with kids, making it easy to get them to eat their chicken.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and store in the fridge for an easy reheat option later.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need a few essentials to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This tool allows you to cook the skewers quickly while keeping them tender and juicy without excess oil.
- Skewers: They help you easily grill and serve the chicken pieces while ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for preparing the garlic parmesan sauce and mixing it well with the chicken.
- Basting brush: Using this tool helps evenly apply the garlic parmesan sauce during cooking for enhanced flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 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 Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will allow for even cooking on the skewers.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
Melted butter
Minced garlic
Grated parmesan
Olive oil
Hot sauce
Red pepper flakes
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken pieces to the bowl with the sauce. Toss until all pieces are well coated. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes if time allows.
Step 4: Assemble Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers. Ensure they are close together but not overcrowded for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook in Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers in a single layer inside the basket. Cook for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Baste with extra sauce halfway through cooking for added flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove from air fryer. Garnish with minced parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers either alone or over rice and veggies!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family meal, these skewers are sure to impress.
As an Appetizer
- Serve them hot with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Pair with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for extra flavor.
Over Rice
- Place the skewers on a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal.
- Drizzle with leftover garlic parmesan butter for added richness.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Serve alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful plate.
- The veggies complement the chicken’s flavors perfectly.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Wrap the chicken skewers in fresh lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Add sliced cucumbers and carrots for crunch and freshness.
On Tacos
- Shred the chicken from the skewers and use it as a taco filling.
- Top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a tasty twist.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To achieve mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, follow these tips for the best results.
- Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors deeply.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a more robust flavor compared to jarred options.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer is preheated before cooking for even cooking results.
- Check Internal Temperature: Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety.
- Baste Frequently: Basting with garlic parmesan sauce during cooking keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers elevates your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent companion.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing balances the savory skewers.
- Roasted Broccoli: Lightly seasoned roasted broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, herbs, and lemon complements the dish well.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is a classic side that pairs wonderfully.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the tender chicken skewers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it right.
- chicken pieces: Cutting the chicken into uneven sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are similar in size for consistent results.
- Under-seasoning: Skipping spices can result in bland skewers. Don’t forget to use the garlic powder and red pepper flakes for flavor.
- Ignoring marinating time: Rushing the marinating process can affect taste. Allow the chicken to soak up flavors for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many pieces tightly can prevent even cooking. Leave some space between each piece on the skewer.
- Not using a meat thermometer: Guessing when the chicken is done can lead to undercooking or overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow skewers to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, adding a touch of oil if necessary, until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that might help clarify any doubts.
Can I use different meats for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make sure my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy?
Marinate your chicken well and avoid overcooking it. Keeping an eye on the temperature ensures juiciness.
What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair perfectly with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I grill Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Follow your grill’s instructions, but make sure to baste with sauce during cooking for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as an appetizer or a main dish served over rice and veggies. Feel free to customize them with your favorite marinades or side dishes. Try this recipe today and savor every bite!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delectable treat that will elevate any gathering or family dinner. Marinated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, these skewers are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer, they offer a quick and easy meal option any day of the week. Serve them as a delicious appetizer or over rice for a hearty main dish that everyone will love. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll be on your way to enjoying these savory skewers in no time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 stick butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- Spices: red pepper flakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated; marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook skewers in a single layer for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Garnish with minced parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
