If you’re anything like me, you know that garlic and Parmesan are two ingredients that can transform an ordinary chicken dish into a party-worthy superstar. These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are my latest obsession—they marry that irresistible crunch you get from an air fryer with a melty Parmesan coating and a bright pop of fresh parsley. Every time I fire up my air fryer, I can’t help but get a little giddy, because I know I’m about to sink my teeth into tender, juicy chicken cubes that have been lovingly marinated in garlicky olive oil. Seriously, once you taste that first bite, you’ll find yourself reaching for just. one. more.
Over the years, I’ve tested countless ways to cook chicken, but there’s something undeniably fun about skewers. They’re playful, portable, and perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. I still remember the first time I rolled the hot skewers in Parmesan right out of the air fryer—cheese dust dancing in the air, and me, wide-eyed, anticipating that rich, salty finish. I was hooked. And here’s the best part: this recipe is beginner-friendly, taking only about 10 minutes to prep, 12 minutes to cook, and a half-hour to let those flavors mingle in the refrigerator. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore your kitchen, you’ll find this recipe both straightforward and oh-so-satisfying. So let’s grab our skewers, preheat that air fryer, and prepare for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN AIR FRYER GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN SKEWERS
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s talk about the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays its part in creating those garlicky, cheesy bites that keep you coming back for more.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tender and lean, these chicken bites cook quickly in the air fryer while absorbing all the marinade flavors. Cutting them into uniform cubes ensures even cooking and succulent results.
- Olive oil
This silky oil acts as the flavor carrier, helping the garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning cling to the chicken. It also promotes a beautifully browned exterior when air-fried.
- Garlic (minced)
The true flavor powerhouse—garlic brings a pungent, aromatic kick that infuses every nook and cranny of the chicken cubes, making each bite pop with savory goodness.
- Salt
Essential for enhancing all the flavors, salt helps the garlic and Parmesan shine while seasoning the chicken deeply, ensuring it tastes as thrilling as it looks.
- Black pepper
A subtle counterpoint to the garlic’s richness, black pepper adds a mild heat and complexity, elevating each bite with a gentle warmth.
- Dried Italian seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, this seasoning adds a Mediterranean hint that pairs perfectly with garlic and Parmesan.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Creamy, salty, and utterly addictive, Parmesan forms a delicious crust around the cooked chicken when it’s rolled after cooking. Freshly grated is key for the best texture.
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
Bright and herbaceous, parsley not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of cheese and garlic with its fresh, peppery notes.
- Wooden or metal skewers
These handy tools let you cook and serve in style! If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them beforehand to keep them from burning in the air fryer.
HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN SKEWERS
Let’s walk through the simple steps that turn these humble ingredients into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece. With minimal hands-on time and straightforward techniques, you’ll have these skewers on the table in no time.
1. Cut the chicken breasts into 1–2 inch cubes and set aside. Ensuring each piece is about the same size helps them cook evenly, so you end up with perfectly juicy bites all around.
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Whisk or stir until the ingredients are fully combined into a smooth marinade.
3. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until the chicken is fully coated in the seasoning mixture. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). A preheated air fryer ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, giving you that coveted crispy edge.
5. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even air circulation and thorough cooking.
6. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. Cook the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. While the chicken is cooking, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This will become our final coating that adds the signature cheesy finish.
9. Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the air fryer and roll them in the Parmesan and parsley mixture until well coated.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or on top of a fresh salad for a complete meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR AIR FRYER GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN SKEWERS
Ready to impress your guests or simply elevate your weeknight dinner? These serving ideas will make your skewers shine even brighter.
- Family-style platter
Arrange the hot skewers on a large wooden board, sprinkle extra Parmesan and chopped parsley over the top, and provide bowls of marinara or ranch for dipping. This communal setup invites everyone to dig in together.
- Salad topper
Lay the juicy skewers atop a bed of crisp romaine or mixed greens, along with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons. Drizzle with a lemon-garlic vinaigrette to echo the flavors of your skewers.
- Party appetizer
Serve individual skewers in shot glasses filled with a zesty garlic-aioli or pesto. Guests can grab a glass by the rim, slide out their skewer, and enjoy a mess-free, hand-held treat.
- Grain bowl
Build a hearty bowl with quinoa or brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a dollop of tzatziki. Top with sliced skewers for a balanced, protein-packed meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
HOW TO STORE AIR FRYER GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN SKEWERS
Making extras? No problem—these skewers keep beautifully, so you can enjoy them all week long without losing any of that irresistible flavor.
- To refrigerate: Place cooled skewers in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store for up to 4 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
- To freeze: Lay the cooled skewers flat on a baking sheet and flash-freeze for an hour. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheating tips: For best results, thaw frozen skewers in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the air fryer or oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
- Keep the coating fresh: If you anticipate longer storage, store the Parmesan-parsley mixture separately in a small container and roll the skewers just before serving to maintain maximum crispness.
CONCLUSION
I hope you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers as much as I love sharing it with you. From the first moment you toss those garlicky cubes in olive oil and herbs, to the satisfying crunch when you bite into that Parmesan-coated exterior, this recipe is all about celebrating simple ingredients at their very best. Whether you’re whipping these up for a cozy dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a potluck party, the magic of the air fryer delivers juicy, flavorful chicken in a fraction of the time it takes to bake or pan-fry. And don’t forget—you can easily swap in chicken thighs if you’re craving something even richer, or adjust the garlic and Parmesan quantities to suit your flavor cravings. With just a bit of prep, you’ll have skewers that look gourmet but feel totally accessible, even for beginner cooks.
Feel free to print this article and stick it on your fridge, or save it for later when you’re planning your next family meal or gathering. Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ section to answer any last-minute questions you might have about techniques, substitutions, and storage. I’d love to hear how your skewers turn out—drop a comment, share a tip, or ask any questions you have. If you hit a snag or simply want to rave about how crispy and cheesy your bites turned out, I’m here for it. Your feedback helps me keep tweaking and perfecting these recipes, so don’t be shy. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with garlicky, cheesy goodness!
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Description
Marinated chicken cubes turn golden and juicy in the air fryer, then get rolled in fragrant Parmesan and fresh parsley for an irresistible, garlicky crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cut the chicken breasts into 1-2 inch cubes and set aside.
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In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
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Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until the chicken is fully coated in the seasoning mixture. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
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Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It might be necessary to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
-
Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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While the chicken is cooking, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley in a small bowl.
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Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the air fryer and roll them in the Parmesan and parsley mixture until well coated.
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Serve immediately and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or on a salad.
Note
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breast for a juicier alternative.
- Adjust garlic and Parmesan quantities to suit your taste preference.
- These skewers are great for serving at gatherings or parties as an easy-to-eat option.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
