Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and is perfect for any occasion, you’ve found it in these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. This recipe is a family favorite that hits the spot whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The tender chicken, coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, makes for an irresistible appetizer or main course that everyone will love.

What I adore about these skewers is how versatile they are. You can whip them up in an air fryer or opt for grilling or baking—perfect for whatever cooking method suits your mood! Plus, they’re so simple to prepare that even on the busiest days, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty skewers ready to go for dinner!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate the mouthwatering garlic parmesan flavor.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the marinade in advance and let the chicken soak up those flavors for even better taste!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer or over rice with veggies—perfect for any meal.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are sure to please. Gather these items, and let’s get started on this flavorful journey!

For the Skewers

• 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs or breast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 stick butter
• 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup parmesan, grated
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
• 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Thread some bell peppers or zucchini onto the skewers for added color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If you’re looking for something different, use feta or mozzarella instead of parmesan.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor profile.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together your marinade ingredients. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, grated parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, parsley, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will infuse every bite of chicken with rich taste. Be sure to whisk everything well until fully combined!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces if needed. Add them to the bowl with your marinade and toss until each piece is well-coated. Letting the chicken sit in this mixture for at least 15 minutes allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors. If you have time, marinating longer—up to overnight—will yield even tastier results.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Once your chicken is marinated to perfection, it’s time to assemble! Thread each piece onto skewers. Be sure not to overcrowd them; this helps ensure even cooking and allows those beautiful grill marks to develop if you’re grilling.

Step 4: Cook Your Skewers

Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your air fryer (or oven/grill) based on your preference. Cook the skewers until they are golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 15 minutes in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C). Remember to baste them with any leftover marinade halfway through cooking for extra flavor!

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will surely become a beloved addition to your recipe rotation. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

These delicious garlic parmesan chicken skewers are sure to impress, and with a few simple tips, you’ll take your dish to the next level!

• Choose the right chicken cut: Opting for chicken tenders, thighs, or breast ensures a juicy and tender result. Tenders cook quickly, while thighs add extra flavor and moisture.
• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the garlic parmesan sauce for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) infuses more flavor, making each bite incredibly tasty.
• Soak skewers if using wooden ones: If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for about 30 minutes prevents them from burning during cooking. This extra step helps keep your skewers intact and looking great!
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leaving space between pieces of chicken on the skewers allows hot air to circulate evenly, ensuring that everything cooks perfectly without becoming soggy.
• Baste regularly: Applying the garlic parmesan sauce throughout the cooking process keeps the chicken moist and enhances its flavor. It’s an easy way to ensure maximum deliciousness!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Serving garlic parmesan chicken skewers can be as creative as you want! You can make it a delightful centerpiece or an easy appetizer that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of minced fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside gives diners the option to add a zesty kick that complements the garlic beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The vibrant green color and slight crunch of steamed broccoli provide a nutritious balance to the meal, making it both colorful and healthy.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with veggies brings texture and a refreshing element that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs creates a lovely base for your skewers while soaking up any extra garlic parmesan butter.
• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus not only taste fantastic but also add visual appeal to your plate.

These serving suggestions will ensure your garlic parmesan chicken skewers shine at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, allowing for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the skewers to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and label with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen skewers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• Heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers that might help you out!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works great too. Just make sure not to overcook it to keep it juicy.

How long do Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers last in the fridge?

These skewers can last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize the spice level of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes according to your preference.

What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers?

They pair wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to your weeknight meals or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your side dishes and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!