|

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

ByMadison
Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 7 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for something juicy, flavorful, and utterly addictive, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe might just become your new go-to. I’ve made this dish countless times for both casual weeknight dinners and lively weekend get-togethers, and every time the garlic and parmesan combo shines bright, making these skewers insanely crave-worthy. Whether you’ve got an air fryer or a grill, this recipe fits seamlessly into your routine — quick to prep and quick to cook!

What I really love about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is how it balances rich buttery garlic goodness with just the right hint of tangy parmesan and a subtle kick from chili crisp. It’s an easy way to feel fancy without fuss — perfect for when you want something special that doesn’t take all day. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find every bite bursting with flavor and wanting more.

🧡

Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Combining garlic, parmesan, and a bit of chili crisp creates layers of taste that elevate everyday chicken.
  • Quick and Easy Prep: The marinade and compound butter come together fast so you can get cooking quickly without sacrificing flavor.
  • Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you air fry or grill, these skewers cook evenly and stay juicy every time.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: They work just as well for a casual dinner as for impressing friends at a barbecue.
Seven skewers of grilled chicken pieces are arranged inside a black air fryer basket with a ridged surface. Each skewer has chunks of golden-brown chicken seasoned with green herbs and spices, showing a slightly crispy texture. The chicken pieces are uneven in size and shape, with some pieces looking thicker and juicier. The air fryer basket has a handle on one side and sits on a white marbled surface. The lighting highlights the shiny, cooked surface of the chicken and the grill marks inside the basket. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe plays a part — from tender chicken thighs that stay moist to the creamy tang from mayonnaise in the marinade. I always recommend shopping for fresh garlic and good-quality parmesan to get the best results.

  • Chicken Thighs or Tenders: These pieces stay juicy and flavorful, unlike leaner cuts that can dry out quickly.
  • Seasoning Salt: Adds depth and seasoning without overpowering the natural chicken flavor.
  • Mayonnaise: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken pieces and keeps them tender.
  • Grated Parmesan: Offers savory, nutty notes that pair perfectly with garlic.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the marinade while the fresh garlic in the butter sauce packs a punch.
  • Butter: Softened for easy mixing, it forms the base of the compound butter that makes the skewers irresistibly rich.
  • Fresh Garlic: Minced or pressed garlic provides fresh aroma and boldness to the compound butter.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds fresh herbaceous brightness as well as a pop of color.
  • Chili Crunch (or Chili Crisp): I love how this adds a little heat and a crunchy texture to contrast the softness of the chicken.
  • Lemon Juice: A small splash brightens the whole thing and balances the richness.
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love customizing this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe depending on the mood and the crowd. It’s such a flexible dish, so you can easily turn the heat up or dial it down, or swap ingredients to make it your own. Don’t be shy to experiment and make it truly yours!

  • Spicy Variation: Sometimes I add more chili crisp or even a dash of cayenne pepper in the marinade for an extra kick — my friends’ eyes light up every time!
  • Dairy-Free Switch: Use a vegan butter substitute and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan if you’re avoiding dairy; the flavor holds up surprisingly well.
  • Herb Twist: Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro for a different herbal vibe that changes things up beautifully.
  • Grill Seasoning: Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika before cooking works wonders especially if you’re grilling outdoors.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Start by cutting your chicken follicles into 1-inch pieces — I find this size perfect for cooking evenly on skewers. Then mix the chicken with seasoning salt, a good dollop of mayonnaise, grated parmesan, and garlic powder. Don’t skip the mayo; it’s a little trick I picked up that keeps the chicken irresistibly moist and helps the flavors cling beautifully. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, but if you’ve got time, popping it in the fridge for 4 to 16 hours deepens the taste wonderfully.

Step 2: Whip Up the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine softened butter with pressed garlic, fresh parsley, parmesan, chili crunch, and a splash of lemon juice. I use a fork to press and mix it until it becomes a luscious compound butter with the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes. Just zap it for 5 seconds in the microwave if it feels too stiff — this makes it easier to baste later without melting away into a puddle immediately.

Step 3: Skewer and Cook with Care

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers (soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes first to prevent burning). Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF, or fire up the grill if you prefer that smoky flavor. I usually place 4 to 7 skewers at a time in the air fryer — don’t crowd them! This little rule ensures each piece cooks evenly and crisps up without steaming.

Step 4: Cook, Flip, and Baste to Juicy Perfection

Cook the skewers for 6 minutes, then flip them for 3 more minutes. At this point, the chicken should hit around 150ºF internally — perfect timing to grab your garlic parmesan butter and baste generously. Baste one side and cook for 1 minute, then flip, baste again, and finish with another 30-40 seconds. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165ºF. This basting step locks in moisture and dials up the rich garlicky flavor.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Savor Every Bite

Once cooked, pull the skewers out and finish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and a little fresh parsley if you have it. Serve hot with your favorite sides and watch everyone reach for seconds. I swear, the aroma alone gets people buzzing!

💡

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

  • Marinate Overnight: If you plan ahead, marinate the chicken overnight to infuse all that garlic parmesan goodness deeply into every bite.
  • Don’t Overcrowd Your Cooker: Give chicken pieces room to cook evenly; otherwise, they’ll steam instead of crisp — making a big flavor difference.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken can be tricky—checking the internal temp stops you from undercooking or drying out your skewers.
  • Baste Near the End: Adding the compound butter near the final part of cooking keeps those bold flavors fresh and intense without burning.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

A close-up of three pieces of grilled chicken on a skewer held by a woman's hand with a thumb and finger visible, each piece cooked to a golden brown and sprinkled with coarse salt and green herbs, creating a textured and slightly charred surface; behind the skewer, there is a white bowl filled with more grilled chicken pieces with lemon wedges placed inside the bowl, all set against a white marbled textured background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like topping these skewers with a sprinkle of extra grated parmesan and a few chopped fresh parsley leaves — it adds vibrant color and a touch of freshness that balances the richness perfectly. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving lifts everything up in a wonderful way.

Side Dishes

My favorite sides to serve alongside these skewers are garlic butter roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, or even some buttery grilled asparagus. When I’m feeling adventurous, a creamy risotto or simple garlic bread pairs beautifully to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, I’ve arranged the chicken skewers standing upright in a rustic jar or a wooden board lined with parchment — it makes for a charming presentation that invites guests to grab and go. Adding colorful edible flowers or microgreens on the side amps up the visual appeal for those special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I find that Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, I like to separate the skewers from the butter sauce so they don’t get soggy — simply reheat and baste again before serving.

Freezing

Freezing cooked skewers is absolutely possible! I lay them flat on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a fresh brush of compound butter for great flavor retention.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftover skewers is in the air fryer or oven at 350ºF for about 5 minutes. This crisp-up method keeps the outside deliciously golden, while the inside stays tender — you can add a quick baste of garlic parmesan butter mid-way to refresh the flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe?

    Absolutely! You can use chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat, but I recommend marinating a little longer and keeping an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying out the breast meat. Adding the mayonnaise in the marinade helps keep it moist regardless of cut.

  2. What can I substitute for chili crunch if I don’t have any?

    If you don’t have chili crunch or chili crisp, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can add that mild heat. Just be cautious with quantities so it doesn’t overpower the garlic parmesan flavors.

  3. Can I prepare the skewers ahead and freeze before cooking?

    Yes! You can assemble the marinated chicken onto skewers and freeze them uncooked on a tray. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw overnight and cook as usual, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

  4. Is it necessary to use mayonnaise in the marinade?

    While not mandatory, mayonnaise in the marinade acts like a tenderizer and helps the seasoning stick. It also contributes to the juicy, succulent texture that makes these skewers stand out. If you have an allergy or preference against it, a little olive oil can be substituted, although texture might vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe is one of those dishes I always keep in my rotation because it nails flavor, ease, and versatility without complicated steps. I’m pretty sure you’ll love how rich and garlicky the chicken turns out, and how little time it takes to pull it all together. Treat yourself to these skewers for your next meal—you deserve it, and I promise they’ll quickly become a household favorite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 7 reviews
  • Author: Madison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are deliciously marinated chicken pieces coated with a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, parmesan, and garlic powder, then air fried to juicy perfection, and finished with a rich, garlicky compound butter infused with parsley, chili crisp, and lemon juice. Perfect for a satisfying dinner or appetizer, served with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 1/2–2 pounds chicken thighs or tenders, cut in 1-inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lowry’s)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon grated parmesan
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Seasoning Sauce (Compound Butter):

  • 5 tablespoons softened butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
  • 1-2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Season: Add the chicken pieces to a bowl and season with seasoning salt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and grated parmesan. Mix thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for as little as 20 minutes, ideally 4-16 hours for maximum flavor.
  2. Prepare Butter: In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, chili crisp, and lemon juice. Use a fork to press and mix until you form a compound butter. Microwave for 5 seconds to slightly loosen the butter for easier basting.
  3. Skewer: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers and set them aside. Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF (or prepare an outdoor grill if preferred).
  4. Cook: Place 4-7 skewers at a time into the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd for even cooking. Air fry the chicken skewers for 6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
  5. Baste: Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach at least 150ºF before basting. Brush the compound butter over the chicken skewers and cook for 1 additional minute. Flip the skewers, baste the other side, then cook for another 30-40 seconds. Confirm doneness with a meat thermometer reading 165ºF.
  6. Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer, sprinkle with extra parmesan or parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning if using a grill.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if preferred, but thighs remain juicier.
  • If you don’t have chili crisp, substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken is cooked through to avoid undercooking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 skewer
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

You Might Also Like These Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star