Looking for a flavor-packed dish that’s guaranteed to impress? These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, buttery, and perfectly seasoned with bold garlic-parmesan flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting friends or just need a quick weeknight dinner, these air-fried skewers are a total win.
After the success of my Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers on social media, I had to bring you another irresistible variation using the same simple method. These skewers are air fryer–friendly, super easy to prep, and downright addictive. You can also bake or grill them!
Pro Tip: I like to serve mine over warm rice and drizzle the leftover garlic-parmesan butter sauce on top—it’s a game changer.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Juicy and tender chicken that’s full of flavor
- Homemade garlic-parm butter that’s used for basting and serving
- Easy air fryer method with options for oven or grill
- Perfect appetizer or main dish
- Ready in under 40 minutes
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Tenders – You can sub with breast or thighs, but tenders stay especially moist.
- Butter – One full stick brings rich flavor to the sauce.
- Garlic – Use 8–10 cloves for that bold garlic punch.
- Parmesan – Grated parmesan melts perfectly into the butter.
- Hot Sauce – Adds a subtle kick without making it too spicy.
- Spices – Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Fresh Parsley – For a burst of herb freshness.
- Wooden Skewers – Don’t forget to soak them beforehand!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer Method)
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cut chicken tenders into 3-inch chunks.
- Toss chicken with olive oil and all the spices until evenly coated.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
- Thread the chicken tightly onto soaked skewers, packing them closely to lock in moisture.
- Snip the tops if needed to fit into your air fryer basket.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, grated parmesan, and parsley.
- Scoop out 1/3 of the sauce for basting during cooking. Reserve the rest for the final glaze (to avoid cross-contamination).
Step 4: Air Fry the Skewers
- Cook 2–3 skewers at a time at 400°F for 5 minutes.
- Flip, baste with the garlic-parm sauce, and cook 2 more minutes.
- Flip again, baste, and cook another 5–6 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Brush with the reserved garlic-parm sauce and sprinkle with extra parmesan before serving.
Oven or Grill Instructions
Oven:
Preheat to 450°F. Bake skewers on a foil-lined sheet for 14 minutes, flipping and basting halfway. Broil 2 more minutes for a golden finish, then brush with sauce and serve.
Grill:
Preheat to medium-high. Grill skewers for 5–6 minutes per side, basting as they cook. Finish with a final sauce drizzle and extra parm.
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Air fryer-sized metal or wooden skewers
- Basting brush
Serve It With:
- White rice or garlic butter rice
- Roasted veggies or grilled corn
- A simple green salad
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 35 min | Serves: 6 skewers
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken tenders (or thighs/breast)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter
- 8–10 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes.
- Toss chicken with oil and spices. Thread onto skewers tightly.
- In a saucepan, melt butter with garlic. Add remaining sauce ingredients. Reserve ⅓ of sauce for basting; set aside the rest.
- Air fry skewers at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip, baste, and cook for 2 more minutes. Flip again, baste, and cook 5–6 more minutes or until done.
- Brush cooked skewers with reserved garlic-parm butter. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and serve.
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