Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs 680g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika adds a beautiful color and depth
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, but highly recommended for a subtle warmth
For the Legendary Garlic Parmesan Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 3-4 large cloves garlic finely minced (for the best punch of flavor!)
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese see pro-tip below
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice brightens everything up
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for heat
For Garnish & Serving:
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or chopped chives
- Lemon wedges for squeezing
Instructions
Prep the Chicken (The Key to Flavor!)
- 🔸️Pat the chicken cubes completely dry with paper towels.This crucial step is the secret to getting a truly crispy exterior, not a steamy one! Place the chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and add all the seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. Toss vigorously until every piece is evenly coated. For the most flavorful chicken, let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
Skewer Like a Pro:
- 🔸️If using wooden skewers,soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning and splintering in the intense heat of the air fryer. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, placing about 4-5 pieces per skewer. Leave a small gap between each piece—this isn’t just for looks! It allows the hot air to circulate freely, ensuring every inch gets crispy and cooks evenly.
Air Frying to Perfection:
- 🔸️Preheat your air fryer to 400°F(200°C) for 3-5 minutes. A hot start is essential for that instant sear. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray for extra insurance against sticking. Arrange the skewers in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching or overlapping. You will likely need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- 🔸️ Air fry for 10-12 minutes, pausing at the 6-minute mark to flip the skewers with tongs. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown with crispy edges and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
Whisk Together the Magic Sauce:
- 🔸️While the chicken cooks,prepare the garlic Parmesan butter. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, parsley, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until it forms a cohesive, glorious sauce. The Parmesan will melt slightly into the butter, creating a rich, coating consistency.
The Grand Finale:
- Coat and Serve! The second the skewers come out of the air fryer,use a basting brush to generously slather them with the garlic Parmesan butter. The heat from the chicken will help the sauce adhere and soak in beautifully. For the ultimate experience, you can even toss the skewers right in the bowl with any remaining sauce. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
🔹️The Cheese Matters: For the best flavor and meltability, freshly grate your own Parmesan from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
🔹️ Don't Crowd the Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air. Overcrowding leads to steamed, soggy chicken. Patience is key—cook in batches!
🔹️Marinate for Maximum Impact: While the quick version is delicious, letting the seasoned chicken marinate for a few hours in the fridge will result in incredibly deep, penetrating flavor.
🔹️Prevent Dry Chicken: Using chicken thighs is a foolproof way to ensure juicy results every single time, as they have a higher fat content than breasts.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
