Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you love quick dinners that are juicy, flavorful, and super satisfying, then you’re going to adore this Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s insanely easy yet so packed with flavor you’d never guess it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, the air fryer does such a lovely job giving the chicken a crispy edge without drying it out. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in transforming simple chicken chunks into irresistible skewers. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs helps keep the meat juicier than breasts would, and the combo of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan creates layers of savory flavor that truly sing. Plus, fresh parsley adds that pop of herbaceous brightness.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay tender and juicy during quick air frying without drying out like chicken breasts can.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds a subtle fruity richness.
• Italian Seasoning: A simple blend of herbs like basil and oregano to keep things flavorful and aromatic.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overpowering; spreading it throughout the process is key.
• Garlic Powder: Gives that punch of garlic flavor without the burning risk of fresh garlic in the air fryer.
• Unsalted Butter: Melts into a luscious garlic-herb sauce, enriching the chicken beautifully.
• Fresh Italian Parsley: Brings freshness and color, brightening the richness of butter and Parmesan.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts into the buttery glaze.
• Bamboo Skewers: Soaked before cooking to avoid burning and make handling easier.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love about this Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. I like to tweak the herbs depending on what I have on hand or adjust the butter sauce for more or less garlicky kick. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste — that’s where the fun really begins.

• Variation: I’ve tried swapping Italian seasoning with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne for a smoky, spicy twist — totally delicious and a great way to mix things up.
• Dietary Options: For dairy-free, you can swap butter with melted coconut oil and omit the Parmesan, using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Try this same garlic-Parmesan butter sauce on grilled halloumi or tofu skewers — just as satisfying!
• Adding Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or cherry tomatoes between the chicken pieces for extra color and nutrients.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Soak and Prep Your Skewers

I always start here because preventing those bamboo skewers from burning in the air fryer saves so much hassle. Trim them down to fit your air fryer basket if needed, then soak in water for at least 30 minutes. Trust me, when your skewers don’t catch fire, everyone’s happier.

Step 2: Marinate Your Chicken

While the skewers are soaking, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. I like to give it a good stir with my hands to make sure every piece gets a nice coating. This simple marinade locks in flavor and ensures the chicken cooks up tender and tasty.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken Onto Skewers

Thread around six pieces onto each skewer, spacing them evenly. Don’t cram them too tightly — leaving a little breathing room helps the hot air circulate and cook them evenly. If your air fryer basket is small, work in batches so you can spread them in a single layer.

Step 4: Air Fry for Crispy, Juicy Chicken

Pop the skewers into the air fryer and cook at 400°F for about 8 minutes. This gets them mostly cooked with a great start on browning. Halfway through, no need to flip yet — just let them do their thing.

Step 5: Make the Garlic-Parmesan Butter Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together melted butter, chopped parsley, Parmesan, and the rest of the garlic powder and salt. This sauce is the heart of the flavor — rich, garlicky, and herbal, it makes these skewers irresistible.

Step 6: Flip, Brush, and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip each skewer, then generously brush them with the garlic-Parmesan butter. Stick them back in the air fryer for another 4 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should read 165°F). Brushing again before plating really seals in the flavor.

Step 7: Serve Warm with Extra Butter

Arrange skewers on a platter and brush on any remaining garlic-Parmesan butter. I love serving the extra sauce on the side so everyone can drizzle more if they want. Perfect for dipping or spooning over rice or veggies.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of finishing these skewers with some freshly chopped parsley and a little extra freshly grated Parmesan on top. It brings brightness and a touch of elegance to this casual dish, plus it smells amazing. A squeeze of lemon is also a personal favorite for adding a fresh zing.

Side Dishes

These skewers go wonderfully with a side of garlicky roasted potatoes or a crisp Caesar salad. For something lighter, steamed asparagus or a quinoa salad work beautifully. My go-to is garlic bread or even a buttery risotto for a more indulgent meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, I like to serve these skewers upright in a tall glass or arrange them on a board with dipping sauces and fresh veggies around. Adding a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers really ups the wow factor without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you leave the garlic-Parmesan butter separate, the chicken maintains its texture better and you can refresh the flavor when reheating.

Freezing

Freezing these skewers works well if you keep them uncoated with the garlic butter first. Freeze the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and brush with fresh butter before reheating.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat is back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes. This way, the chicken crisps back up and tastes almost freshly made. Don’t forget to brush with any leftover garlic-Parmesan butter before or after reheating for maximum flavor!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I have to say, the Air Fryer Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe has earned a special spot in my weekly dinner rotation. They’re incredibly kid-friendly, easy to customize, and come out juicy with just enough crispiness to be so satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a flavorful, fuss-free meal, these skewers will deliver every single time. I can’t wait for you to try them and see why I keep raving about this classic dinner solution!

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