Zesty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Sizzling Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Sizzling summer evenings call for these mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken delight skewers that promise an explosion of flavor in every bite.

Tender chunks of marinated chicken dance with aromatic garlic and rich parmesan cheese, creating a symphony of taste.

The perfect blend of herbs and spices coats each succulent piece, ensuring maximum deliciousness.

These skewers bring Mediterranean-inspired magic to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Grilled to golden perfection, they deliver a crispy exterior and juicy interior that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Packed with protein and bursting with zesty seasoning, these skewers transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe and watch your taste buds celebrate.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 386 kcal

Servings: 5

What You’ll Use in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

For Chicken Base:
  • Chicken Breast: Lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully, choose fresh boneless cuts for tender, juicy results.
  • Olive Oil: Creates a silky coating that helps spices stick and promotes even browning.
For Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic spice combination that builds a robust flavor foundation.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds subtle heat and vibrant complexity to the chicken's profile.
For Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
  • Butter: Provides rich, creamy base for the sauce, enhancing overall indulgence.
  • Minced Garlic: Delivers intense, aromatic punch that infuses deep flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Introduces nutty, salty dimension and creates luxurious texture.
  • Hot Sauce: Contributes zesty kick and brightens the sauce's flavor profile.
  • Fresh Parsley: Brings fresh, herbal note and adds visual appeal.
  • Wooden Skewers: Essential for easy handling and attractive presentation.

Tools to Skewer, Grill, and Flavor Just Right

  • Air Fryer: Essential for cooking chicken skewers to crispy perfection.
  • Small Saucepan: Perfect for creating the flavorful garlic Parmesan butter sauce.
  • Wooden Skewers: Crucial for threading and holding chicken pieces together.
  • Small Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining chicken seasonings.
  • Whisk: Great for blending sauce ingredients smoothly.
  • Sharp Knife: Needed for cutting chicken into uniform pieces.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helpful for accurate seasoning and sauce ingredients.

Cooking Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken

  • Skewer Preparation

Thread tender chicken pieces onto wooden skewers, ensuring they’re tightly packed for even cooking. Pre-soak skewers in water to prevent burning during cooking.

  • Flavor Fusion

Create a zesty garlic butter blend by warming butter with fresh minced garlic. Incorporate red pepper flakes, tangy hot sauce, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese into a smooth, aromatic sauce.

  • Air Fryer Magic

Set air fryer to 400°F for crispy perfection. Arrange skewers inside the basket, cooking for 5 minutes. Generously brush with garlic Parmesan sauce, flipping halfway through. Continue cooking until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, typically 10-12 minutes total.

  • Serving Suggestion

Remove skewers and let rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with remaining sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of crispy chicken and rich, garlicky goodness.

Marinade and Serving Tips for Skewer Success

  • Cheese Swap Challenge: Experiment with different hard cheeses like pecorino romano or aged asiago for a unique flavor twist on the classic Parmesan.
  • Spice Level Control: Adjust the red pepper flakes and hot sauce to match your heat preference – from mild whispers to fiery explosion.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Marinate chicken in the garlic Parmesan mixture overnight for deeper, more intense flavor that'll wow your taste buds.
  • Grill Master Alternative: If you don't have an air fryer, these skewers grill beautifully over medium-high heat, creating delicious char marks and smoky undertones.

How to Plate These Skewers for Any Occasion

  • Party Platter Perfection: Arrange these sizzling skewers on a large wooden board with colorful bell pepper slices, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a stunning appetizer spread that'll wow your guests.
  • Dipping Delight Station: Create a mini sauce bar with ranch, blue cheese, and extra garlic Parmesan sauce for people to customize their chicken skewer experience and add personal flavor flair.
  • Family-Style Feast: Serve the skewers over a bed of lemon-kissed rice or alongside a crisp Mediterranean salad to transform this appetizer into a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
  • Cocktail Companion: Pair these zesty skewers with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp beer to elevate the flavor profile and make your dining experience truly memorable.

Storage Advice for Meal Prepping Chicken Skewers

  • Smart Batch Prep: Create multiple skewers in advance and store them uncooked in sealed containers. These can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making weeknight dinners super quick and easy.
  • Chilled Leftover Magic: Refrigerate cooked skewers in airtight containers for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to maintain crispy texture and prevent meat from drying out.
  • Freezer-Friendly Strategy: Wrap individual or grouped skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Frozen chicken skewers remain delicious for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Sauce Separation Solution: Store garlic Parmesan butter sauce separately in a sealed glass jar. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Gently warm sauce before drizzling over reheated skewers to restore original rich flavor profile.
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Zesty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe


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4.7 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Succulent garlic parmesan chicken delight skewers combine Mediterranean flavors with irresistible grilled goodness. These perfectly seasoned kabobs promise a delightful culinary experience savored slowly with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (907 grams) chicken tenders, thighs, or fillets
  • 1 stick (113 grams) butter
  • ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 to 10 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • ⅓ cup fresh parsley, minced
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. Skewer Preparation: Immerse wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
  2. Chicken Preparation: Cut chicken into consistent 3-inch pieces for uniform cooking and appealing presentation.
  3. Seasoning Process: Thoroughly coat chicken chunks with olive oil and selected spices, creating a robust flavor profile.
  4. Skewering Technique: Carefully thread seasoned chicken pieces onto pre-soaked skewers, positioning them compactly to optimize heat circulation.
  5. Sauce Creation: Gently melt butter with minced garlic in a saucepan, incorporating red pepper flakes, hot sauce, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until sauce reaches a smooth, harmonious consistency.
  6. Air Fryer Setup: Preheat air fryer to 400°F, preparing for precise chicken cooking.
  7. Cooking Process: Arrange skewers in the air fryer basket without overcrowding, cooking for 5 minutes. Rotate skewers and generously apply garlic Parmesan sauce. Continue cooking, flipping and basting every 2 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature, typically taking 10-12 minutes total.
  8. Resting Stage: Remove skewers from air fryer and allow to rest 2-3 minutes, enabling juice redistribution for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Notes

  • Soak Skewers Smartly: Prevent burning by fully submerging wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  • Cut Chicken Consistently: Uniform 3-inch chunks ensure even cooking and professional-looking presentation, eliminating raw or overcooked sections.
  • Sauce Timing Matters: Apply garlic Parmesan sauce during last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning and maximize flavor intensity without compromising chicken’s moisture.
  • Temperature Check: Always verify chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature using a meat thermometer for safe consumption, avoiding potential foodborne illnesses.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 386
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 564 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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