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I discovered how to make these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers last summer when my outdoor grill broke right before a family dinner. Now they've become one of our most requested meals. The chicken comes out incredibly tender and juicy bathed in rich garlic Parmesan butter. Best of all they're ready in under 20 minutes perfect for those busy evenings when everyone's starving and asking what's for dinner.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
Let me tell you why these skewers have become a staple in my weekly dinner rotation. First they cook up fast in the air fryer usually done in about 20 minutes. The seasoning blend of smoked paprika and garlic creates the most amazing flavor especially when paired with that buttery Parmesan coating. I love serving them with different sides rice one night salad the next. My family never gets tired of them. Plus we can enjoy that delicious grilled taste any time of year even in the middle of winter.
Let's Get Cooking
For the chicken you'll need:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For that amazing garlic Parmesan butter:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Tools
You'll need your air fryer of course. I use wooden skewers but metal ones work great too. Grab a couple mixing bowls and a basting brush for that delicious butter. That's really all you need this recipe is wonderfully simple.
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Making Your Skewers
Start by mixing your olive oil garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper in a bowl. Toss in your chicken pieces until they're well coated. Thread them onto skewers leaving little gaps between pieces this helps them cook evenly. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. While that's heating mix your softened butter with Parmesan minced garlic parsley and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Place your skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10 minutes flipping them halfway through. Then comes the magic brush them generously with that garlic Parmesan butter and cook for just a few more minutes until they're perfectly done.
Perfect Pairings
These skewers are so versatile. We love them over fluffy rice that soaks up all the garlic butter sauce. They're fantastic with a crisp Caesar salad or some roasted vegetables. My kids particularly love when I serve them with air fried asparagus the whole meal cooks right in the air fryer.
Tips From My Kitchen
If you're using wooden skewers soak them in water first this prevents burning. Always check that your chicken reaches 165°F inside I use a meat thermometer to be sure. Sometimes I add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture when we're craving a bit of heat. My daughter loves extra Parmesan on hers.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container they'll stay good in the fridge for about three days. To reheat just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes. They come out almost as good as fresh.
Questions I Often Get Asked
Many people ask if they can use metal skewers instead of wooden ones absolutely. I get asked about swapping chicken thighs for breasts too both work great though thighs tend to stay juicier. No air fryer? No problem you can bake these in the oven at 400°F for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These skewers remind me that sometimes kitchen accidents lead to the best discoveries. My broken grill led to this family favorite that we now make year round. Each serving packs about 310 calories with 24g of protein making them a healthy choice too. Give them a try and let me know how your family likes them. Don't forget to check out my chicken and buttered noodles recipe if you're looking for more quick dinner ideas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to stay juicier, but breasts work great if you prefer white meat. Just watch cooking time as breast meat cooks slightly faster.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature and show no pink inside. When cut, the juices should run clear and the meat should be white throughout.
- → Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and seasoning mix up to 24 hours ahead. Store in the fridge and thread onto skewers just before cooking for best results.
- → What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair well with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with extra garlic parmesan butter sauce for dipping.
- → Do I need to flip the skewers while cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. This helps achieve that perfect golden color and texture.