Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
If you’re craving dinner that’s as fun as it is flavorful, Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers might just be your new obsession. This easy, crowd-pleasing dish features tender chunks of chicken bursting with zesty garlic, Italian herbs, and the irresistible warmth of melted Parmesan. It’s a recipe that takes the familiar comfort of chicken skewers, gives it an air fryer twist, and delivers pure magic with every bite. Whether you’re planning a laid-back family meal or serving up skewers at a casual get-together, you’ll find yourself reaching for this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients: this recipe keeps it simple, yet every item works hard to create that unforgettable flavor and juicy texture. Fresh chicken, a punchy marinade, and a generous shower of Parmesan guarantee that these skewers are anything but average—each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen so you taste something special in every bite.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Opt for fresh, lean chicken for the best texture—cut into even cubes so they cook perfectly in the air fryer.
- Olive oil: Provides moisture and helps the marinade cling to every piece of chicken.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses bold, aromatic flavor throughout the chicken.
- Italian seasoning: Adds classic herbal notes that complement the Parmesan and brighten up the whole dish.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the other seasonings and bringing out the juiciness of the chicken.
- Black pepper: A touch of spice that rounds out the savory profile of these skewers.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star finishing touch—sprinkled on hot, it melts into gooey, cheesy perfection.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley offers a burst of color and a fresh, herby finish.
- Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and tang, taking the flavors to the next level.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Add your chicken cubes, tossing them until each piece is totally coated in the garlicky, herby marinade. This step is crucial—not only does it infuse the chicken with flavor, but letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes keeps the meat juicy and tender. Pop the bowl in the fridge and let your air fryer magic begin here.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. This ensures the air is hot enough to give your skewers a golden, slightly crisp finish. Take this moment to soak wooden skewers in water if you’re using them, which helps prevent any burning during cooking.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, leaving just a bit of space between each piece. If you’re feeling creative, you can add slices of colorful peppers or zucchini in between—this not only adds flavor and texture but makes your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers extra eye-catching. However you build them, aim for even-sized pieces so everything cooks at the same pace.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Skewers
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil for nonstick success, then arrange the skewers in a single layer. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through. The chicken should emerge golden brown and fully cooked (an internal temp of 165°F, if you want to check with a thermometer), with those edges just beginning to crisp up. The aroma at this stage is pure bliss!
Step 5: Finish With Parmesan and Serve
While your skewers are still hot, sprinkle them generously with grated Parmesan cheese so it melts ever-so-slightly into the chicken. Top with a scatter of fresh parsley for a vibrant green touch. If you love a burst of acidity, offer lemon wedges on the side—the bright zing elevates every savory bite of these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
It’s all about the finishing touches! Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for color; it adds a subtle herbal freshness that balances out the richness. If you want your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers to look restaurant-worthy, sprinkle on a bit more grated Parmesan just before serving, and don’t forget the lemon wedges for an extra zing of brightness.
Side Dishes
These skewers are the star, but they love good company. Pair them with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, classic Greek salad, or even a buttery rice pilaf. They’re the kind of main that plays well with just about any side—if you’re feeling indulgent, garlic bread or creamy mashed potatoes wouldn’t go amiss either!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers straight on the sticks with dipping sauces (think creamy ranch or herby yogurt sauce). For parties, slide the cooked chicken bites off the skewers, pile them on a platter, and shower them with more Parmesan and parsley for a stunning, shareable appetizer. You can even tuck the chicken into wraps or pita for a casual lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), cool the skewers completely and pack them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will stay fresh and tender for up to three days. The flavors become even more pronounced overnight!
Freezing
To freeze, remove the chicken from the skewers and arrange in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label and date it, and your chicken will keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator—so handy for instant weeknight meals.
Reheating
To reheat, you can pop the chicken pieces back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F until warmed through, which helps restore some of that original crispiness. Alternatively, a microwave will do the trick in a pinch, but the air fryer really brings back that savory, golden texture Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are known for.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat, making them extra juicy and flavorful. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions for delicious results.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before air frying?
Yes, soaking your wooden skewers in water for 20 to 30 minutes before threading the chicken helps prevent them from burning or charring in the heat of the air fryer.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, or cherry tomatoes make vibrant and tasty additions. Just alternate pieces of chicken and veggies on each skewer for extra color and flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden brown with crispy edges and fully cooked through. For peace of mind, use a meat thermometer: your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are perfect when the internal temperature hits 165°F.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! You can bake the skewers on a sheet pan in a 400°F oven for about 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crisp as the air fryer version, but you’ll still have those signature garlicky Parmesan flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something irresistible about Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers—the way they transform humble ingredients into a meal full of cheer and comfort. You’ll love how easy they are to make, how family-friendly they taste, and how quickly they disappear from the table. Give them a try this week, and don’t be surprised if they become your new go-to favorite!
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. Tender chicken pieces marinated in garlic and herbs, then air-fried to perfection with a crispy Parmesan topping.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the skewers in a single layer.
- Air Fry: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over hot chicken skewers. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
- You can add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini between chicken pieces for a colorful variation.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
