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These garlic parmesan chicken skewers are pure comfort food and make a seriously crowd-pleasing dinner or party plate. Juicy bites of chicken are coated in a buttery, garlicky, lemony parmesan sauce that soaks right in thanks to the air fryer for crispy edges. Every time I make these, people hover by the platter until the last piece disappears
The first time I served this at a backyard cookout it was gone in minutes and even picky eaters kept coming back for seconds
Ingredients
- Salted butter: brings richness and helps the parmesan adhere to the chicken look for high-quality European-style butter for extra flavor
- Garlic: grated for maximum aroma and flavor boost I always pick the freshest bulbs with tight skin
- Parmesan cheese: finely grated melts into the butter giving the perfect salty tang buy a wedge and grate it fresh if you can
- Lemon: both zest and juice for brightness pick one that feels heavy for its size
- Salt and black pepper: for seasoning always use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper for best taste
- Red pepper flakes: add just enough gentle heat
- Fresh parsley: adds color and freshness totally optional but gives a nice finish
- Chicken thighs: stay tender and juicy even with high heat choose boneless skinless and trim any fat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter:
- In a medium bowl melt the softened salted butter in the microwave or stovetop just until liquid then add the grated garlic parmesan cheese lemon zest lemon juice salt and red pepper flakes Stir thoroughly until everything is combined and set aside The mixture may thicken as it sits but this is normal and will melt again on the chicken
- Prep the Skewers:
- If your wooden skewers are too long for your air fryer use kitchen shears to trim them so they fit snugly This makes turning and basting the chicken easier and avoids burning the ends
- Thread the Chicken:
- Take the sliced chicken thigh strips and tightly pack about six or seven pieces onto each skewer pressing them together so they hold their shape Continue with all the chicken until skewers are full
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken skewers generously with salt and pepper Make sure every bit is seasoned evenly for great flavor in every bite
- Butter and Air Fry:
- Use a basting brush to coat every side of each skewer thickly with your garlic parmesan butter Preheat your air fryer to 350F Place the skewers inside in a single layer ensuring they do not touch Cook for five minutes then carefully open and baste again with more butter Return to the air fryer for another five minutes Baste once more and cook for a final five minutes totaling fifteen minutes The chicken should be golden brown and sizzling If needed repeat in batches until all are cooked
- Finish and Serve:
- When all the skewers are done collect the flavorful melted butter left in the bottom of your air fryer and drizzle over the cooked skewers Sprinkle with more parmesan and chopped fresh parsley Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing right before eating
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One of the things I love most about this recipe is the butter sauce at the bottom of the air fryer It is so flavorful that my kids often grab bread just to mop it up With every family gathering these make people feel instantly at home
Storage Tips
Let leftover skewers cool completely before storing Slide the chicken off the skewers for easier packing Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days To reheat use the air fryer for a couple of minutes or microwave gently to keep the chicken juicy The extra garlic butter keeps everything moist
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken thighs for breast meat if you like a leaner skewer but keep in mind thighs stay juicier For the cheese try pecorino romano if you want a stronger kick If fresh parsley is not around a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs works
Serving Suggestions
These chicken skewers are perfect alone or piled over a fresh green salad They are also delicious wrapped in flatbread with a dollop of yogurt sauce For a party platter try serving with grilled vegetables or simple buttered rice
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Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, but adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking, as breasts tend to be leaner and may dry out faster.
- → What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can cook the skewers on a grill or in an oven at 400°F (200°C), turning and basting until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh parmesan?
Freshly grated parmesan provides the best flavor and texture, but pre-grated varieties will also work in a pinch.
- → How can I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken to reduce the risk of burning during cooking.
- → Are there alternatives to parsley for garnish?
Fresh basil, chives, or a sprinkle of extra parmesan can be used as alternative garnishes for added flavor and color.