Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers cooked in an air fryer are the perfect combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and the irresistible flavor of Parmesan cheese. They are simple, quick to prepare, and require only a few basic ingredients. The air fryer helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or preparing a weeknight meal, these chicken skewers will be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy to thread onto the skewers. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used instead, but breasts provide a leaner, healthier option.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth marinade. The olive oil will help the seasoning coat the chicken, while the Parmesan cheese will add flavor and create that delicious crispy crust.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated thoroughly. For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This step is essential for letting the flavors soak into the chicken, making each bite more flavorful and tender.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
While the chicken marinates, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown exterior. Most air fryers take about 3 to 5 minutes to reach the desired temperature.
Step 5: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the soaked wooden skewers. Be sure to leave a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. If you’re using a smaller air fryer, you may need to work in batches to prevent overcrowding, which could lead to uneven cooking.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken Skewers
Place the skewers in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. If you’re making multiple batches, don’t worry; the air fryer heats quickly, and the chicken will cook just as perfectly in the next batch.
Air fry the chicken skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that all sides get crisp and golden. To check for doneness, ensure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check the texture and color of the chicken, ensuring it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
Step 7: Serve the Skewers
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer and place them on a plate. If desired, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor and color. These chicken skewers are perfect served as a main dish, an appetizer, or as a side with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tip:
For a little extra flavor, try dipping the chicken skewers in a garlic butter sauce or your favorite ranch dressing for a rich, indulgent experience.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe. They are juicier and have a more robust flavor compared to chicken breasts. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may take slightly longer to cook due to their higher fat content.
2. Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and thread it onto the skewers ahead of time. Simply cover the skewers with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, just pop them in the air fryer!
3. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
While Parmesan gives a wonderful flavor and texture, you can experiment with other cheeses such as asiago, mozzarella, or cheddar. Just keep in mind that each cheese has a slightly different melting point, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
4. Do I need to soak the wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking the wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before cooking prevents them from burning in the air fryer. This simple step ensures your skewers stay intact and don’t char while cooking.
5. Can I use the oven instead of the air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken skewers in a regular oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. The air fryer, however, gives them a crispy texture that’s hard to replicate in the oven.
6. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or microwave before serving. You can also freeze the cooked skewers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in the air fryer offer a quick and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the crispy texture from the air fryer makes this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving them at a party, these skewers are sure to impress. They are versatile enough to pair with a variety of side dishes such as salads, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes.