If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dinner that’s quick, packed with flavor, and just the right touch of fancy, look no further than Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. These irresistible skewers feature juicy bites of chicken, zesty garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a medley of seasonings that transform a few simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish—all with the magic of your air fryer. Whether you’re looking to dazzle at a weeknight meal or impress at your next get-together, this recipe brings that golden and cheesy goodness straight to your table in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heart of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, but every single one has an important role to play in building big flavor and vibrant color. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you’ll love each component:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a lean, juicy base that lets all those delicious flavors shine through.
- Olive Oil: Adds moisture, helps the seasonings coat the chicken evenly, and makes the finished skewers tender.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic takes center stage, infusing the chicken with robust flavor and aroma.
- Salt and Black Pepper: The essentials that wake up all the other flavors and season the chicken perfectly.
- Italian Seasoning: Brings a blend of savory herbs that gives a hint of classic Mediterranean flair.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color that elevates the appearance and depth of taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: The star of the show—grated Parmesan gives a salty, nutty finishing touch and that dreamy melt over the skewers.
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, but it adds a bright, fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor right at the end.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve on the side to squeeze over at the table for a burst of tangy freshness that cuts beautifully through the richness.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Toss in the chicken chunks and make sure every piece is sparkling with that vibrant marinade. If you have time, let them sit for 1 to 2 hours in the fridge to soak up even more flavor, but even a quick toss and go will make these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers totally delicious.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Thread those flavor-packed chicken pieces onto skewers—metal or pre-soaked wooden ones both work great. Try to push the chicken tight enough that they stay juicy, but not so tight they can’t get evenly golden and cooked through in the air fryer.
Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket—work in batches to avoid crowding if necessary. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, turning each skewer halfway, until the edges are crisp and the centers are beautifully cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F/74°C).
Step 4: Add the Parmesan Finishing Touch
With about 2 minutes left, carefully open the basket and sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the skewers. Pop them right back into the air fryer just until the cheese melts and crisps ever so slightly. This gives Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers their signature cheesy crust and amazing aroma!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
As soon as the skewers are done, transfer them to a platter. Shower with fresh parsley if you like, and serve with a pile of lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add their own spritz of zingy brightness. Time to dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of fresh parsley adds inviting green color and a graceful touch of flavor, while those lemon wedges really wake up every bite. Don’t underestimate the power of a quick squeeze—it’s the secret to balancing the cheesy richness and making these skewers feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair incredibly well with light, vibrant sides like a crisp green salad, garlic roasted veggies, or even a fluffy rice pilaf. For a heartier meal, try serving them with roasted potatoes or buttery corn on the cob. Dip on the side? Garlic aioli or ranch takes these over the top!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, lay the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers on a wooden board with colorful veggies and fresh herbs for a show-stopping platter. Play with presentation by slicing the chicken from the skewers onto a salad or wrapping it in a warm flatbread for an impromptu gyro-inspired wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pop any leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers into an airtight container. They’ll stay tasty and fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacking straight from the fridge.
Freezing
For longer storage, place cooled chicken (off the skewers is easiest) in a freezer-safe bag or container. These freeze perfectly for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To recapture that wonderful texture, reheat the skewers in your air fryer at 350°F until warmed through—usually about 3–4 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy and helps restore some of that signature crispiness on the outside.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are incredibly juicy and full of flavor. Just swap them in for the breasts and follow the same directions—cooking time may be about the same or just a minute or two longer, depending on the thickness.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
You’ll get great flavor even with a quick mix, but marinating for an hour (or up to two hours) really lets the spices and garlic sink in, making every bite of these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers even more delicious.
What if I don’t have skewers?
No skewers, no problem! Simply spread the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket. You’ll still get golden, garlicky, cheesy chicken bites—just skip the skewering step.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can skip the Parmesan, but for that crave-worthy finish, try a sprinkle of your favorite dairy-free cheese or a dash of nutritional yeast for a pop of umami flavor. The recipe remains just as easy and satisfying!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are naturally gluten-free as written, so they’re perfect for sharing with friends or family who avoid gluten—just double-check your seasonings to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a truly effortless and flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress, Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers deliver every time. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a party platter with friends, this recipe blends ease and excitement in every bite. Give them a try, and let these cheesy, garlicky skewers become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Tender chunks of chicken are seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness!
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Toss chicken in the mixture.
- Skewer Chicken: Thread the chicken onto skewers.
- Cook: Place skewers in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle Parmesan over skewers in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- You can prep these ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.
- Try with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or ranch.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 1–2 hours in the olive oil mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
