If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish that’s both easy to make and downright irresistible, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken pieces are marinated to perfection, grilled to a golden crisp, and then generously coated in a rich, buttery garlic parmesan sauce that makes every bite a celebration. Whether you’re gathering friends for a casual dinner or just craving something delicious after a long day, these skewers hit all the right notes with their balance of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and savory cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe lies in simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of delightful flavor and texture. From the tangy lemon juice that brightens the dish to the creamy parmesan that adds that perfect savory finish, every element matters.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken breasts for tender, juicy chunks that cook evenly on the skewers.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps infuse the marinade into the chicken and keeps it moist during cooking.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds fresh acidity to balance the richness of the parmesan and butter.
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: A zesty blend that brings some gentle heat and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings robust aroma and pungent flavor that defines the dish.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes): Prevents burning during cooking and makes serving a breeze.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the sauce): Provides that silky base that carries the garlic and parmesan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for the sauce): Adds fresh garlicky punch to the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient in the sauce that delivers creamy richness and umami kick.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a burst of color and freshness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by creating the marinade that will elevate the chicken’s natural juiciness. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Add your chicken pieces and toss thoroughly so each chunk is lovingly coated. Cover and let this marinate in the fridge for at least an hour, or for maximum flavor, leave it up to 24 hours. This step is crucial for melding those vibrant citrus and garlic notes right into the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Skewers
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, packing them comfortably but not too tightly. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Place the skewers in a single layer inside the basket. If you like, a light spray of cooking oil can help achieve that extra crispness. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway to get a golden and even char. The aroma at this point will be absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant—but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic will add bitterness. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until you have a luscious, thick sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Brush the hot, cooked chicken skewers generously with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Feel free to serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping, because believe me, every bite deserves that indulgent touch. These skewers are best enjoyed warm, straight off the grill or air fryer, to fully experience the symphony of garlicky, cheesy flavors.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of additional chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of grated parmesan right before serving adds a pop of color and boosts the umami notes. For a little sparkle, a few lemon zest curls can brighten the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these chicken skewers with crisp green salads, garlic butter roasted potatoes, or even a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. Crusty bread or grilled vegetables work beautifully too, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying without stealing the spotlight from these delicious skewers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these skewers in a picnic-style tray with little bowls of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli. Another charming idea is placing them over a bed of fluffy couscous or wild rice mixed with fresh herbs, turning your plate into a colorful, inviting feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to savor the flavors later, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to keep these skewers longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooked skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them inside a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months while maintaining their delicious taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, brushing them again with some garlic parmesan sauce to restore their buttery, garlicky charm. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for tenderness and quick cooking, chicken thighs can also be used for extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking times slightly since thigh meat may take a bit longer to cook through.
Do I have to use an air fryer, or can I grill these skewers?
You can definitely grill the skewers for a smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high, and cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. The air fryer is just a convenient alternative that still delivers wonderful texture.
Is the garlic parmesan sauce gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in the garlic parmesan sauce are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those following a gluten-free diet, provided your seasonings and parmesan are certified gluten-free.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just add the chicken pieces when you’re ready to marinate, or marinate the chicken itself ahead for an even faster meal prep.
What can I do if I don’t have parsley?
If fresh parsley isn’t available, chopped fresh basil or chives work as good substitutions that bring fresh, herbaceous notes. Dried herbs can be used too, but add them sparingly to avoid overpowering the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion but comes together with ease and everyday ingredients. Its bright flavors, satisfying textures, and that luscious parmesan garlic sauce make it a favorite in my kitchen and, I’m sure, will become a staple in yours too. So why wait? Grab those skewers, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe features tender pieces of marinated chicken breast, infused with lemon and garlic flavors, then air fried to golden perfection. Served with a rich, buttery garlic Parmesan sauce, these skewers make a delicious and easy appetizer or main dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 380°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking when you place the skewers inside.
- Thread Chicken onto Skewers: Drain the soaked wooden skewers and carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Air Fry Chicken: Arrange the chicken skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray if desired to promote browning. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and that the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.
- Prepare Garlic Parmesan Sauce: While the chicken cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley until well combined.
- Serve: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, brush them generously with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning in the air fryer.
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model; ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce.
- Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
