If there’s one dish guaranteed to make everyone hover in your kitchen, it’s Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. These juicy, bite-sized chicken pieces are bursting with savory garlic and cheese flavor, served hot on skewers for easy eating and maximum fun. The magic happens in the air fryer, locking in all the flavors with a crisp golden finish while keeping it light and insanely easy to whip up. Whether you’re setting the menu for a weeknight dinner, prepping for a backyard get-together, or just needing an irresistible, protein-packed snack, these skewers will quickly become your new obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This flavor-packed recipe comes together with a handful of kitchen staples you probably already have. Each ingredient brings its own magic, ensuring that every bite delivers juiciness, tang, and crunch in perfect balance. Here’s how they all play a key role in your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless for the juiciest, most tender chunks that soak up all the seasoning.
- Olive oil: This coats the chicken, helping the flavors stick and giving the skewers a golden, moist finish.
- Garlic powder: Adds a deep, mellow garlic warmth that’s at the heart of this recipe.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the savory flavors and brings gentle sweetness.
- Salt: Essential for lifting all the other flavors and making each bite pop.
- Black pepper: Brings a subtle heat and earthy aroma.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for a robust, fresh-from-the-garden flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The secret to the irresistible crust that forms as the cheese melts and crisps in the air fryer.
- Fresh parsley: Adds vibrant color and a burst of freshness when sprinkled on at the end.
- Optional: extra Parmesan and melted butter: Brush on for even more richness and a cheesy finishing touch.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into 1-inch cubes. This ensures quick and even cooking. Aim to keep the pieces uniform so that each chunk is as tender and flavorful as the last. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 15 minutes beforehand to prevent burning in the air fryer.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a big bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss in your chicken cubes, stirring with your hands or a spatula to coat every morsel. You’ll smell the garlic and herbs right away, which is a sure sign delicious things are ahead!
Step 3: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into your seasoned chicken and gently toss again. The cheese should stick to the oiled chicken and start to form a light, savory crust that will turn into a golden, mouthwatering coating as it cooks.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Carefully thread the coated chicken cubes onto your skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly—leaving a little space between each piece lets the air fryer’s hot air crisp up the outside and keeps things juicy inside.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the skewers inside, making sure they’re in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through, until the chicken reaches a lovely golden hue and is cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F/74°C).
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Optional but highly recommended: Brush each skewer with melted butter and shower with extra Parmesan for that wow-factor finish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers hot and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
Nothing says “eat me” like a scattering of freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkling of Parmesan on top. This gives your skewers a pop of color and amps up that cheesy, savory aroma. For even more flavor, a quick brush of melted butter will take the skewers over the top.
Side Dishes
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with all sorts of sides. Try them with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or classic favorites like garlic bread or rice pilaf. They also shine as party food when served alongside dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or a creamy garlic aioli.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to play! Create a fabulous, colorful platter by threading bell peppers, onions, or zucchini in between chicken pieces. Or serve mini-skewers as appetizers at your next gathering for a playful twist on finger food. They can even star in a protein bowl over quinoa with a drizzle of lemon for a low-carb lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they chill, making them even more irresistible in salads or wraps the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these skewers fully cooked. Arrange them in a single layer on a sheet pan, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To recapture that fabulous crispy Parmesan crust, reheat your skewers in the air fryer at 375°F for 2-3 minutes. They’ll warm through without drying out or losing their signature crunch. The microwave works in a pinch, but the air fryer is the real hero here.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are especially juicy and flavorful, making them a perfect candidate for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Just trim any excess fat for best results.
Do I have to use skewers?
No skewers? No problem. You can cook the chicken pieces directly in the air fryer basket—just make sure to shake or turn them halfway through to get that lovely golden color on every side.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Definitely. Feel free to slide on chunks of bell pepper, red onion, or zucchini between pieces of chicken for extra color and flavor. Just try to cut your veggies and chicken to a similar size so they cook evenly.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest bet is to use a meat thermometer; chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (74°C). The outside will look golden and slightly crisp thanks to the parmesan, and the inside should be juicy with no pink remaining.
Are Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers gluten-free?
Yes! As long as your Parmesan is gluten-free (most are), this recipe naturally fits gluten-free diets—perfect for sharing with family or friends who have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Once you make these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, they’re bound to become your go-to for easy meals, parties, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. Give them a try and see just how delicious and simple homemade skewers can be!
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a main course or appetizer. The chicken is coated in a delicious blend of spices and Parmesan cheese, then air-fried to crispy perfection. Serve these skewers hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for a low-carb, gluten-free treat.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: extra Parmesan and melted butter for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, toss chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until coated.
- Add Parmesan: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Thread Skewers: Thread chicken onto skewers.
- Cook: Place skewers in air fryer basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Optional: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with extra Parmesan before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with ranch, garlic aioli, or marinara for dipping.
- Perfect for meal prep, parties, or a low-carb dinner.
- Try adding veggies like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
