There’s nothing quite like the sound of chicken skewers sizzling away in the air fryer, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma of garlic and Parmesan. The first time I prepared these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, I discovered a delightful balance of health and flavor that transformed my dinner routine. Perfect for casual weeknight meals or fancy footed parties, these skewers are incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies or seasonings.
As someone who often grapples with quick meal ideas that don’t fall into the usual fast-food trap, I was thrilled to discover that these skewers not only deliver crispy, golden-brown goodness but do so with minimal oil. This means more flavor with less guilt! Whether you’re a devoted chef looking to impress guests or simply in search of a tasty and easy dish, these chicken skewers are sure to please everyone at the table – and they’re ready in just 20 minutes! Dive in with me and let’s whip up a batch that will leave your taste buds singing!
Why will you love Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can effortlessly create mouthwatering skewers in your air fryer.
Healthy & Flavorful: Enjoy the rich taste of garlic and Parmesan without the added calories from traditional frying methods.
Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or even switch up the protein; shrimp and tofu also work wonderfully!
Quick Cooking: Ready in just 20 minutes, these skewers are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve them as appetizers at your next dinner party, and watch as they disappear in no time! If you’re looking for an exciting side dish to accompany your skewers, check out my delightful Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken (breasts or thighs) – Choose breasts for leaner meat or thighs for a richer, juicier experience.
For the Marinade
• Garlic – Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch, but feel free to use powdered garlic for convenience.
• Parmesan Cheese – Opt for freshly grated for the best melting and flavor; pre-packaged versions will suffice in a pinch.
• Olive Oil – Essential for adding moisture and promoting that beloved crispy texture during air frying.
• Herbs & Spices – Customize with your favorite herbs like Italian seasoning, paprika, or chili powder to elevate the flavor profile.
For Assembly
• Wooden Skewers – Don’t forget to soak these to prevent burning in the air fryer!
Get ready to enjoy these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that will surely impress your family and friends!
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken into 1-inch thick pieces to ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy. This size helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- Make Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and your choice of herbs and spices. Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Marinate Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces well in the marinade. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes, or for the best flavor, refrigerate overnight.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating with any veggies you desire (like bell peppers or zucchini), leaving gaps for airflow.
- Cook Skewers: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the skewers in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serving: Once cooked, garnish the skewers with parsley or additional Parmesan and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or aioli.
Optional: Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Feel free to make these skewers your own with these delicious twists and swaps!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. It adds a nice umami kick!
- Vegetable Boost: Add colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for extra nutrition and flavor. They roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
- Different Meats: Swap the chicken for shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein option, giving you a delightful texture and flavor change.
- Herb Alternatives: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of Italian seasoning. Each herb brings a unique flair to the dish!
- Cheesy Variation: Replace Parmesan with Romano or Asiago cheese for a sharper taste and different texture. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or fresh jalapeños to your marinade for an extra kick of heat. This complements the garlic beautifully!
- Sweet Twist: Marinate the chicken with a touch of honey or maple syrup for a sweet glaze that balances the savory flavors. The caramelization is divine!
- Whole Grain: Serve skewers over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a fiber-rich meal that fills you up without feeling heavy. Enjoy the nutty flavors!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the skewers flavorful and ready for quick meals.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Enjoy them for up to 2 months; just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To regain that crispy texture, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through and ready to delight your taste buds again.
- Serving Again: If using frozen skewers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Perfect Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, preventing dryness.
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking and crispy results.
- Variety is Key: Customize your skewers with different vegetables or proteins to cater to your taste preferences and enhance nutrition.
- Season to Suit: Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to make your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers uniquely delicious!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?
Elevate your mealtime experience with delightful sides that complement the juicy, cheesy goodness of these skewers.
- Garden Salad: Crisp greens topped with colorful veggies create a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken, making every bite a burst of freshness.
- Garlic Butter Rice: The buttery, garlicky notes in this fluffy rice dish harmonize perfectly with the Parmesan chicken, adding a comforting, hearty element to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasoned roasted vegetables balances the dish beautifully. Their caramelized sweetness adds depth and pairs wonderfully with the savory skewers.
- Crunchy Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw not only adds texture but also a zesty brightness that lifts the entire meal. It’s a delightful pairing for those who love a little crunch!
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these crispy fries offers a delightful contrast to the savory chicken skewers, making for a satisfying and balanced plate.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal with its crisp acidity and fruity notes, complementing the garlic Parmesan flavors beautifully.
These pairings not only round out your dining experience but also make for an unforgettable meal that your family will love!
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for skewers?
Absolutely! You can use either chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts are leaner, while thighs offer more flavor and moisture. For quick meals, I often prefer thighs because they remain juicy even after cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
To maintain their deliciousness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for an easy reheating session!
Can I freeze these chicken skewers?
Yes, you can! To freeze, lay the skewers in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring they are tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. They will stay good for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my skewers are drying out?
If your chicken skewers end up drying out, there are a few things to try. First, always marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor and moisture retention. Additionally, keep an eye on your air fryer’s cooking time; cooking them for too long can lead to dryness. Using a meat thermometer can also help ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F without overcooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re cooking for others, be sure to ask about allergies, especially to common ingredients like garlic or dairy from the Parmesan cheese. For a gluten-free option, ensure your herbs and spices are free from any fillers that contain gluten. Additionally, if you want to make this recipe vegan, feel free to substitute the chicken with firm tofu and the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative.
What kind of aioli or dip pairs best with these skewers?
When it comes to dipping sauces, the more the merrier! A tangy ranch or marinara sauce enhances the flavors beautifully, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try a homemade garlic aioli or a spicy chipotle dip. These will elevate your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers even further!
Juicy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken into 1-inch thick pieces for even cooking.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and herbs/spices. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Coat chicken pieces in the marinade. Let soak for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for best flavor.
- Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, adding veggies if desired.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F and arrange skewers in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Garnish with parsley or Parmesan and serve with dipping sauces.
Nutrition
Notes
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