Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Sizzling Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe: Juicy Bites

Tantalizing garlic parmesan chicken skewers redefine ordinary poultry into a mouthwatering culinary adventure.

Mediterranean-inspired seasonings elevate this protein with an irresistible combination of robust flavors.

Sharp parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic create a dynamic seasoning profile that dances across your palate.

Grilling adds a beautiful char and smoky complexity to each tender morsel of chicken.

Light and satisfying, these skewers work brilliantly as an appetizer or main course for any casual gathering.

Crisp textures and bold seasonings make this dish a crowd-pleasing option for summer cookouts.

Prepare to wow friends and family with this simple yet spectacular recipe.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: A Flavorful Snack or Meal

  • Burst with Flavor Explosion: Each skewer delivers a mouthwatering combination of zesty lemon, rich parmesan, and bold garlic that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal.
  • Super Quick Weeknight Winner: Takes only 15 minutes in the air fryer, making it perfect for busy families needing a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Lean Protein Powerhouse: Packed with 56g of protein per serving, these skewers support muscle building and provide sustained energy while keeping meal preparation simple and enjoyable.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: Ideal for casual gatherings, game nights, or summer barbecues, these skewers can be easily scaled up and offer a crowd-pleasing option that looks impressive and tastes incredible.

Must-Have Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Tender and juicy meat that absorbs the flavorful marinade perfectly; choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for best results.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Parmesan Cheese: Aromatic and savory ingredients that create a rich, umami flavor profile; fresh garlic provides the best taste.
  • Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bright, citrusy elements that add freshness and balance to the rich butter sauce; use fresh lemons for maximum flavor.
Seasoning and Coating:
  • Melted Butter: Creates a rich, golden coating that helps the seasonings stick to the chicken; use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
  • Spices: Adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor of the dish; use a blend that complements the garlic and parmesan.
Garnish:
  • Parsley, Lemon Wedges: Fresh herbs and citrus garnish that provide a final touch of brightness and visual appeal; use fresh parsley for the best flavor.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavorful Marinade

In a mixing bowl, blend melted butter, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, freshly zested lemon, a splash of lemon juice, and your favorite spices until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare and Thread the Chicken

Cut chicken into even pieces and thread them onto skewers, ensuring they’re securely placed. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 3: Coat and Cook the Skewers

Generously brush the chicken skewers with the prepared butter mixture. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, maintaining space between each skewer. Cook at 350°F for 15 minutes, basting with the remaining marinade every 5 minutes to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F), remove from the air fryer. Drizzle any remaining butter mixture over the skewers. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside bright lemon wedges.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let chicken soak in the butter mixture for 30 minutes before skewering to enhance taste and tenderness.
  • Choose the Right Chicken Cut: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking and juicy results.
  • Prevent Skewer Burning: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading chicken to prevent charring.
  • Ensure Even Cooking: Space chicken pieces slightly apart on skewers to allow hot air circulation in the air fryer.
  • Achieve Perfect Browning: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help the butter mixture adhere and create a golden, crispy exterior.

Storing and Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Place skewers flat without stacking to maintain their crispy texture. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm skewers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery chicken texture. Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese before reheating to refresh the flavor and add moisture.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the chicken's tenderness and original taste.

Pairing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Dips or Salads

  • Sip White Wine Brilliance: Crisp sauvignon blanc or chardonnay perfectly complement the rich, garlicky notes of these chicken skewers, cutting through the buttery parmesan coating with refreshing acidity.
  • Serve Zesty Mediterranean Sides: Greek salad or tzatziki with cucumber provides a cool, tangy contrast to the warm, savory skewers, enhancing the lemony undertones of the dish.
  • Pair with Herbed Couscous: Light, fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs like parsley and mint creates a delightful base that absorbs the skewers' flavorful butter mixture while adding textural variety.
  • Create a Fresh Dipping Sauce: Blend Greek yogurt with extra lemon zest, chopped parsley, and a touch of garlic to craft a creamy, bright accompaniment that elevates the chicken's already incredible taste profile.

Fun Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

  • Mediterranean Marvel: Replace parmesan with crumbled feta cheese and add oregano, mint, and diced cucumber for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Mix in chipotle powder, cayenne pepper, and swap parmesan for cotija cheese to create a bold, zesty chicken skewer with southwestern flair.
  • Herb Garden Blend: Incorporate fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage into the butter mixture, using aged pecorino romano instead of parmesan for a more complex herbal taste.
  • Asian Fusion Fusion: Substitute butter with sesame oil, add ginger, soy sauce, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for an East Asian-inspired chicken skewer experience.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe


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4.8 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mediterranean-inspired Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers deliver explosive flavor with minimal effort. Marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection invite you to savor classic Mediterranean zest in each succulent bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch strips

Seasoning and Spices:

  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Butter and Cheese Mixture:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) salted butter, softened
  • 5 cloves garlic, grated
  • ½ cup (50 grams) finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • ¼ cup (15 grams) fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Whisk together melted butter, minced fresh garlic, finely grated parmesan cheese, fragrant lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices in a medium mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
  2. Thread bite-sized chicken pieces evenly onto wooden or metal skewers, ensuring each skewer has uniform chicken distribution for consistent cooking.
  3. Generously brush the prepared chicken skewers with the savory butter and cheese mixture, coating each piece completely to maximize flavor absorption.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (177°C) and carefully arrange the skewers in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to ensure proper heat circulation.
  5. Cook the skewers for 15 minutes total, using kitchen tongs to carefully baste and rotate them every 5 minutes to promote even browning and prevent drying.
  6. Once chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and displays a golden-brown exterior, remove skewers from the air fryer.
  7. Drizzle the remaining butter mixture over the hot skewers to enhance moisture and intensify the garlic-parmesan flavor profile.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and serve immediately alongside bright, zesty lemon wedges for squeezing.

Notes

  • Keep chicken pieces uniform in size for even cooking and juicy results.
  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.
  • Use fresh garlic and grate parmesan cheese for maximum flavor intensity.
  • Allow chicken to marinate briefly in the butter mixture for deeper taste penetration.
  • Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, quick-cooking skewers.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 720 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 2800mg
  • Fat: 54g
  • Saturated Fat: 34g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 56g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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