Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are tender, flavorful chicken pieces marinated in a savory mixture and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. These skewers are basted with a rich garlic parmesan butter sauce and make a delicious appetizer or main course that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2-2 pounds chicken thighs or tenders, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lowry’s)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Seasoning Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Season: Add the chicken pieces to a bowl and season with seasoning salt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for as little as 20 minutes and ideally between 4 to 16 hours for best flavor.
- Prepare Butter: In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, parmesan cheese, chili crunch, and lemon juice. Use a fork to press and blend into a compound butter. Microwave for about 5 seconds to loosen the butter for easier basting.
- Skewer: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers. Set aside. Preheat your air fryer or outdoor grill to 400ºF, as the air fryer is the preferred cooking method.
- Cook: Place 4-7 skewers in the air fryer basket without overcrowding for even cooking. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip the skewers and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Baste and Finish Cooking: Check that the chicken has reached at least 150ºF internal temperature. Baste the chicken skewers with the prepared garlic parmesan butter, then cook for an additional 1 minute. Flip the skewers, baste the other side, and cook for another 30 to 40 seconds. Confirm the chicken is cooked through with a meat thermometer reading 165ºF.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer. Optionally, garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh parsley. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours; however, 20 minutes is sufficient in a pinch.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.
- Chili crunch can be substituted with chili flakes or omit for no heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165ºF to avoid dryness.
- These skewers can also be grilled outdoors if preferred, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg