Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the ultimate quick and flavorful dish. Tender, juicy chicken pieces seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, air-fried to golden perfection, and brushed with rich garlic parmesan butter. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re easy to make and packed with irresistible flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 640g / 1.4lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For the Garlic Parmesan Butter:
- 75g / 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 20g / ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Additional grated parmesan
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat evenly. - Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto 4 skewers, leaving a small gap at both ends. Pack the chicken pieces tightly to keep them juicy during cooking. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 200°C/400°F and let it preheat for a few minutes. - Cook the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. - Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter:
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with grated parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should be soft and spreadable, not melted. Use short 5-second microwave bursts to achieve the right consistency if needed. - Brush and Finish Cooking:
After the first 10 minutes of cooking, flip the skewers and brush them with ⅓ of the garlic parmesan butter. Cook for another 2 minutes and 30 seconds. Flip again, brush with another ⅓ of the butter, and cook for a final 2 minutes and 30 seconds, or until lightly charred and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). - Serve:
Remove the skewers from the air fryer and brush with the remaining garlic parmesan butter. Garnish with extra parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, but you can use breasts if preferred.
- Adjust Spice Level: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a milder flavor.
- Soften Butter Properly: Ensure the butter is soft enough for brushing but not melted.
- Prevent Burning: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American