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This garlic parmesan chicken skewer recipe transforms simple chicken cubes into a mouthwatering dish that's become my go-to for both casual weeknight meals and entertaining guests. The air fryer preparation yields perfectly juicy chicken with minimal effort, while the garlic parmesan sauce adds a restaurant-quality finish that makes everyone ask for seconds.
I first made these skewers during a summer gathering when I needed something impressive but manageable for a crowd. The combination of tender chicken and rich garlic parmesan sauce had guests hovering around the serving plate and requesting the recipe before they left.
Ingredients
- Wooden skewers: soaking them prevents burning and makes for safer eating
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the lean meat becomes incredibly tender using this method
- Mayonnaise: creates a moisture barrier that keeps the chicken juicy while cooking
- Vegetable oil: helps the chicken brown nicely in the air fryer
- Garlic powder: provides consistent flavor throughout each piece of chicken
- Paprika: adds color and a subtle smoky note to complement the garlic
- Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors in the dish
- Black pepper: adds gentle heat that balances the rich sauce
- Unsalted butter: forms the luxurious base of the garlic parmesan sauce
- Fresh minced garlic: provides aromatic punch in the finishing sauce
- Fresh parsley: brightens the rich sauce with color and herbaceous notes
- Parmesan cheese: use freshly grated for the best melting and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Combine mayonnaise, oil, and seasonings in a large bowl until smooth. This mixture not only flavors the chicken but also creates a protective coating that seals in moisture during cooking. Take time to mix thoroughly so every speck of chicken will be evenly seasoned.
- Coat the chicken:
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until each piece is completely covered. Use your hands for the most thorough coating, ensuring the marinade reaches all surfaces of the chicken pieces.
- Thread the skewers:
- Place 4 to 5 chicken cubes on each soaked wooden skewer, leaving a small gap between pieces. Avoid overcrowding as this ensures even cooking and proper heat circulation in the air fryer.
- Air fry to perfection:
- Place skewers in your air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through cooking. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a beautiful golden exterior.
- Prepare the sauce:
- While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and pepper, letting the garlic become fragrant but not brown. Remove from heat before adding parmesan and parsley to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the warm garlic parmesan sauce. For extra flavor, brush the sauce onto all sides of the chicken pieces before serving hot.
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My family particularly loves when I use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika in this recipe. The subtle smokiness reminds us of our favorite restaurant version, and my daughter now specifically requests "the chicken on sticks" for her birthday dinner each year.
Make-Ahead Tips
These skewers can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance, making them perfect for entertaining. Prepare the chicken marinade and coat the chicken cubes, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Thread onto skewers just before cooking. The garlic parmesan sauce can also be made ahead and gently reheated when needed. This advance preparation makes serving time nearly effortless and ensures you can enjoy time with your guests.
Perfect Pairings
Turn these skewers into a complete meal by serving them alongside rice pilaf and a simple green salad. For a more substantial spread, I like to pair them with roasted vegetable skewers and garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. When serving as appetizers, provide small plates and extra napkins along with a simple dipping sauce like ranch or additional garlic parmesan sauce on the side.
Alternative Cooking Methods
While the air fryer produces exceptional results, this recipe adapts beautifully to other cooking methods. In the oven, the chicken needs slightly longer (20-25 minutes at 400°F), but develops a wonderful caramelization. When grilling, the direct heat creates appealing char marks and smoky flavor. Regardless of your cooking method, the key is monitoring the internal temperature rather than relying solely on cooking time to ensure perfectly juicy chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake the skewers for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- → How do I soak the wooden skewers?
Soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning during cooking.
- → Can I prepare these on a grill?
Absolutely, grill the chicken skewers over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side. Brush them with garlic parmesan sauce after grilling for the best flavor.
- → What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish. They're also great on their own as an appetizer.
- → Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic parmesan sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before using.