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Air fryer garlic parmesan chicken skewers deliver a fantastic way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken without the hassle of firing up your grill. This recipe brings together the sharp, savory notes of garlic and parmesan with the convenience of air frying to create a dish that’s both quick and totally satisfying. Whether you’re after a weeknight dinner or something impressive for guests, these skewers hit just the right balance of flavor and texture.
I first made these skewers when I didn’t want to heat up the house by grilling outdoors. They quickly became a family favorite with everyone appreciating that crispy cheesy finish and tender chicken.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Cut into uniform cubes for even cooking and juiciness
- Olive oil: To keep the chicken moist and help the marinade penetrate
- Fresh garlic: For bright aromatic flavor or garlic powder for convenience
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty richness and creates a crispy crust when air fried
- Dried Italian herbs: Bring a balanced herbaceous note but fresh herbs work well too
- Paprika: Lends subtle smokiness and depth, choose sweet Spanish paprika if possible
- Salt and black pepper: For seasoning, adjust based on preference
- Red pepper flakes: Add a mild kick if you like some heat
- Fresh parsley: At the end adds a burst of color and freshness
- Wooden skewers: Soaked in water to prevent burning in the air fryer
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into one inch cubes. A tip I use is to lightly freeze the chicken for around 15 minutes first to firm it up and make cutting into even pieces easier, which helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Create the Marinade:
- Mix olive oil, minced garlic, half of the parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Whisk everything thoroughly until it forms a thick paste that will coat the chicken well.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add your chicken cubes to the marinade and toss so every piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and set it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The longer the marination up to 4 hours the more flavor the chicken absorbs. If time is tight even 15 minutes will still work.
- Skewer the Chicken:
- Thread the marinated pieces onto your soaked wooden skewers. Leave little gaps between the pieces for even air circulation. Depending on size fit 5 to 6 pieces on each skewer.
- Prepare the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit which takes about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil so the chicken won’t stick.
- Cook the Chicken Skewers:
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket making sure they do not touch. If necessary cook in batches for best results. Cook for 6 minutes then carefully flip each skewer and cook for an additional 6 minutes. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and have a crispy golden brown exterior.
- Add Final Cheese Coating:
- In the last two minutes of cooking sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the skewers to create a deliciously crispy cheesy crust that elevates the dish.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skewers from the air fryer and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Let rest for 2 minutes so the juices redistribute before serving.
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The magic in this recipe for me is the parmesan cheese which adds so much flavor and texture. I remember the first time I sprinkled parmesan in the last minutes of cooking, it transformed the dish into something irresistible. That cheesy crust is now a non negotiable step in my kitchen.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For easy meal prep you can marinate the chicken and freeze it uncooked in zip top bags for up to three months. When reheating leftovers pop them back in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for around 3 to 4 minutes to bring back that crispiness. Keep leftover marinade refrigerated separately for up to two days. To prevent moisture loss remove chicken pieces from skewers before storing leftovers.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs work well in place of breasts and yield a moister result. You can swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese to vary flavor. Avocado oil is a good alternative to olive oil if you want a higher smoke point. Fresh herbs like rosemary thyme or oregano give a brighter fresher herbal tone instead of dried Italian herbs.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers pair brilliantly with lemon herb quinoa or cauliflower rice for a wholesome low carb plate. A Mediterranean style Greek salad adds a crisp refreshing contrast. Tzatziki or a yogurt dip lends cooling creaminess that balances the garlic and spice. Round out the meal with grilled vegetable skewers or some warm pita bread and hummus for a heartier option.
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Serve these skewers hot to preserve the crispy cheesy crust. Enjoy with a simple salad or grain for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can these skewers be cooked without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them at 425°F for 15-18 minutes or grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, turning halfway through.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Visually, it should be opaque with no pink inside.
- → Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Absolutely, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and thread onto skewers a few hours before cooking. Keep covered in the refrigerator until ready.
- → Are wooden skewers necessary?
Wooden skewers work well but must be soaked before use. Metal skewers are also suitable and don’t require soaking.
- → Are these skewers suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, with only 2g of carbohydrates per serving, they fit well into keto and other low-carb eating plans.
- → Can I double the amount for larger portions?
Yes, simply double the marinade and cook the skewers in batches to ensure even air frying and crispiness.