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Benjamin

Juicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Air Fryer Magic!

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers (2 servings)
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 640 g / 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:
  • 75 g / 5 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 20 g / 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

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken:
  1. 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:
  1. 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:
  1. Set your air fryer to 200°C/400°F and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Cook the Chicken Skewers:
  1. 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:
  1. 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:
  1. 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:
  1. 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.

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