Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Craving a dinner that’s equal parts juicy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor? Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are about to become your new favorite weeknight sensation. Tender, marinated bites of chicken are air-fried or grilled until golden, then tossed in a garlicky, buttery Parmesan sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers so magical? The ingredient list is refreshingly short, focusing on a handful of staples that each bring loads of flavor and perfect texture. Here’s why you don’t want to skip a single one:

• Chicken thighs or tenders: Opt for thighs if you love extra-juicy, flavorful bites, or use tenders for a lighter option.
• Seasoning salt (like Lawry’s): Adds savory depth and instantly amps up every layer of the dish.
• Mayonnaise: It’s the secret weapon for tenderizing the chicken and helping the marinade cling beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan: For an umami punch and that signature cheesy crust in both marinade and finishing sauce.
• Garlic powder: Packs flavor into every bite and enhances both the marinade and sauce.
• Butter (softened): Essential for the rich, melt-in-your-mouth garlic parmesan glaze.
• Fresh garlic cloves: Nothing beats the boldness of fresh—mince or press for max flavor release.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of herbaceous color and freshness to balance the richness.
• Chili crunch (or chili crisp): Just a little delivers layers of heat, texture, and complexity—totally irresistible.
• Lemon juice: Brightens everything, balancing the savory with a touch of zest.

Variations

One of the very best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers? They’re endlessly adaptable to suit your mood, pantry, and cravings! Feel free to play with the ingredients or switch things up for different occasions.

• Zesty Lemon-Pepper: Swap the chili crunch for lemon zest and cracked black pepper for a bright, tangy twist.
• Herb Lover’s Dream: Stir chopped basil or oregano into the butter sauce for a fragrant, Mediterranean spin.
• Lower Carb or Dairy-Free: Use avocado oil mayo and vegan Parmesan to make these skewers fit your dietary style.
• Vegetarian Option: Thread cubes of halloumi or cauliflower instead of chicken and follow the same flavor-packed marinade and grilling technique.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chopped chicken to a large bowl, then sprinkle with seasoning salt, mayonnaise, grated parmesan, and garlic powder. Toss and massage everything together until every piece is glossy and coated. Marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes (though if you can plan ahead, 4–16 hours yields even more incredible flavor and tenderness!).

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter

In a separate small bowl, mix softened butter, minced or pressed fresh garlic, chopped parsley, more Parmesan, chili crunch, and a splash of lemon juice. Use a fork to mash everything into a smooth, herby compound butter. Pop it in the microwave for just 5 seconds if you need to loosen it slightly—this step is what infuses that rich, savory personality into the finished skewers!

Step 3: Thread & Prep the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken chunks onto metal or properly-soaked wooden skewers, leaving just a bit of space between each piece for even heat distribution. Set aside while you preheat your air fryer (400ºF) or outdoor grill—both methods deliver amazing results, so use whichever is easiest for you!

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

Carefully arrange a batch of 4–7 skewers in your air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd!) or lay them over the grill. Cook for about 6 minutes, then flip and go for another 3 minutes. The goal is lightly charred edges and juicy middles—magic!

Step 5: Baste with Butter & Finish

Once the chicken hits 150ºF, generously brush each skewer with your luscious garlic parmesan butter sauce. Cook for 1 more minute, flip, baste the other side, and finish cooking for another 30–40 seconds. Chicken is officially perfect when it registers 165ºF on a meat thermometer. Time to dig in!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Take the hot, glistening Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers out of the air fryer or off the grill, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve while they’re still sizzling. The aroma alone will bring everyone sprinting to the table!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

Shower your finished skewers with freshly grated Parmesan and a flurry of chopped parsley right before serving. If you love a little extra color and zing, add some lemon wedges for guests to squeeze, or scatter a few chili flakes for an extra pop.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with buttery corn on the cob, a crisp green salad, or fluffy garlic bread. For more filling fare, pair with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple herbed rice pilaf—the savory sauce drippings are amazing over grains!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in a fun party platter with a few dipping sauces, like zesty ranch or honey mustard. For a fresh modern look, arrange skewers upright in a jar, or lay them over a bed of arugula for a bistro-style crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover chicken skewers cool, then gently slide the meat off and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, they’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days—ideal for meal prep or next-day sandwiches!

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze till firm, then bag up for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a ready-to-go protein for salads or wraps.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering for a couple of minutes until warmed through. A quick zap in the air fryer (350ºF for 2–3 minutes) also restores that crispy edge without drying out the meat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to shake up dinnertime—and absolutely wow your friends or family—these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a must-try. Juicy, cheesy, and with just the right pop of garlic and heat, they’re sure to win hearts wherever you serve them. I hope your table is filled with laughter and that unforgettable aroma—enjoy every bite!

Print