Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

This garlic parmesan chicken skewer recipe transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering meal using your air fryer. The combination of savory garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs creates juicy chicken morsels that cook to golden perfection in minutes. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of Italian-inspired flavors that will have your family requesting these skewers again and again.

I first made these skewers when I was looking for a quick dinner option that would please my picky eaters. The moment the garlic aroma filled the kitchen, my family gathered around asking when dinner would be ready. Now these skewers have become our go to meal for busy weeknights and casual weekend gatherings.

• Chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1 inch cubes provides the perfect bite sized pieces that cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer
• Olive oil helps carry the flavors and ensures the chicken stays moist during cooking
• Grated Parmesan cheese creates a savory crust and adds umami depth to each piece
• Minced garlic fresh is best for the most vibrant flavor but jarred works in a pinch
• Italian seasoning this blend of herbs provides complex flavor without needing multiple spice jars
• Paprika adds a subtle smoky note and helps with browning
• Salt and black pepper essential for bringing all flavors together
• Wooden or metal skewers metal works best in the air fryer but soaked wooden skewers are fine too

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

Combine olive oil, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly until you have a smooth, fragrant mixture. The oil will help carry all these delicious flavors into the chicken. Make sure the garlic is finely minced for even distribution throughout the marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken cubes to the bowl and use your hands or tongs to ensure each piece is completely coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor development, let it marinate for up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more pronounced the garlic and herb flavors will become.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your prepared skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece. These gaps allow hot air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and browning on all sides. Avoid crowding the chicken pieces together as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes. Preheating is crucial for getting that initial sear on the outside of the chicken, which helps lock in the juices. Think of it like preheating a traditional oven the results are always better.

Cook the Chicken

Arrange the skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket, being careful not to overlap them. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes total, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time. Look for a golden brown exterior and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should be firm to the touch but still juicy inside.

Serve with Style

Transfer your skewers to a serving platter. For maximum visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle with additional freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to add a bright, acidic finish that cuts through the richness of the Parmesan.

Save This

My favorite part of this recipe is how the Parmesan creates a beautiful golden crust on the chicken. The first time I served these at a family gathering, my brother in law who claims to dislike chicken asked for the recipe before dinner was even over. That moment convinced me these skewers were something special.

Make Ahead Options

The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, making this perfect for planning ahead. Simply prepare the marinade, add the chicken, and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This extended marination actually improves the flavor, allowing the garlic and herbs to fully infuse the meat. When you're ready to eat, just thread the chicken onto skewers and air fry as directed.

Perfect Pairings

These garlic Parmesan chicken skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve them with a light Mediterranean orzo salad or roasted vegetables. They also work wonderfully alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier option, consider serving them with garlic butter rice or creamy polenta. The versatility of these skewers means they complement almost any side dish you prefer.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken is browning too quickly but not cooking through, lower the temperature to 375°F and extend the cooking time by 2 to 3 minutes. Different air fryer models can vary in temperature accuracy and heat distribution. Watch for consistent golden coloring rather than relying solely on timing. If your chicken pieces are larger than 1 inch, they may require additional cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Flavor Variations

While the classic garlic Parmesan flavor is delicious, this recipe serves as an excellent base for countless variations. Try adding lemon zest to the marinade for a brighter flavor profile. Substitute the Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist, or use Mexican spices and cilantro for a southwestern version. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Romano or Asiago in place of Parmesan for subtle flavor changes that keep the recipe exciting each time you make it.

Common Queries

→ How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. The longer marinating time allows the garlic, Parmesan, and herbs to better penetrate the meat, resulting in more flavorful chicken skewers.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work excellently in this dish and often yield juicier results than breast meat. The cooking time remains approximately the same, but always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ How do I know when the chicken skewers are fully cooked?

The chicken skewers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a slightly golden exterior. If you don't have a meat thermometer, cut into the largest piece - the meat should be white throughout with no pink remaining.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven instead?

Absolutely! Bake them in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a rack for more even cooking.

→ How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning in the air fryer?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning during cooking. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers which don't require soaking and conduct heat well.

→ What sides pair well with these chicken skewers?

These garlic Parmesan chicken skewers pair beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, couscous, or rice pilaf. For a simple option, serve with a green salad and garlic bread to complement the Italian flavors.