Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, you’ve got to try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe. These skewers bring together tender, juicy chicken with a zesty lemon marinade, then get a luscious coating of garlicky Parmesan goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create something truly special and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe comes from a handful of simple but powerful ingredients. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s adding brightness, richness, or that must-have umami kick that Parmesan delivers. Getting these basics right guarantees you’ll have skewers that are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly golden.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces, these provide the tender and juicy base for your skewers.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps infuse the marinade flavors throughout the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings a bright, fresh acidity that balances the richness of the Parmesan.
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning: A zesty blend that enhances the chicken’s flavor with a subtle kick.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the marinade with that unmistakable garlicky depth.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes): Prevents the skewers from burning during cooking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the perfect base for the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce): Gives the sauce that irresistible aromatic punch.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a savory, nutty coating for the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal note to the dish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl. Toss your chicken pieces in this fragrant marinade to coat them thoroughly. Then pop the bowl into the fridge for at least an hour, or for extra flavor, let it sit overnight. This step is essential for creating tender, flavorful chicken that’s infused with citrusy brightness and a garlic punch.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Once the chicken is ready, thread the pieces carefully onto each skewer, giving them enough space to cook evenly. This not only makes them easy to handle but also ensures each bite is juicy and packed with flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
If your recipe calls for an air fryer, preheat it to 380°F (190°C). Place the chicken skewers in the basket in a single layer, spraying lightly with cooking spray if you want that extra crispiness. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through so the chicken browns beautifully on all sides. The air fryer is a game changer for this recipe, delivering crispy edges and juicy centers without any fuss.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken cooks, melt the butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a short minute until the kitchen fills with that amazing garlicky aroma. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This sauce is the heart of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe, coating each piece in rich, cheesy goodness with a fresh herbal finish.
Step 5: Brush and Serve
Once the chicken skewers are cooked through and beautifully golden, brush them generously with the warm garlic Parmesan sauce. Serve immediately with a little extra sauce on the side for dipping because trust me, you’ll want every last drop. This simple step takes the skewers from yummy to unforgettable!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or finely chopped chives sprinkled on top add a lovely splash of green, cutting through the richness and making the dish look as irresistible as it tastes. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten up the flavors in a delightful way.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads, garlic butter noodles, or even a light quinoa pilaf. Roasted vegetables or a warm pita bread round out the meal perfectly, giving you a balance of textures and flavors that complement the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve these skewers on a large platter with bowls of extra garlic Parmesan sauce and lemon wedges for an interactive experience. You can also turn them into a fun appetizer by cutting the chicken into smaller pieces and serving with dipping sauces on toothpicks, perfect for parties or game days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), let the skewers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days, making them a quick and delicious lunch or dinner option the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the fully cooked chicken skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your skewers gently in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain their juiciness and texture better than microwaving, which can dry them out. A quick brush of extra garlic Parmesan sauce after reheating will bring back that fresh, savory flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for quick, even cooking on skewers, chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just keep in mind thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through.
Do I have to use an air fryer to make this recipe?
Not at all. You can grill or broil the chicken skewers as well. Grilling adds a nice smoky char, while broiling works if you don’t have an air fryer. Just watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out the chicken.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
The chicken tastes great after just 1 hour in the marinade, but for the best flavor, marinate it up to 24 hours. Longer marinating helps the lemon and garlic fully penetrate the meat, intensifying the flavor.
Can I make the garlic Parmesan sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove before brushing on the skewers. This can save you time on busy days.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The flavors are bold but not spicy, and most kids love the cheesy garlic sauce. Just make sure the chicken is cooked well and cut into small, manageable pieces for little hands.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about perfectly cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe that makes any meal feel like a celebration. The combination of garlicky, cheesy sauce and tender chicken is a total crowd-pleaser and a simple way to bring a taste of something special to your table. I can’t wait for you to try these skewers and make this flavorful favorite a staple in your kitchen rotation!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delicious and easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic blend, cooked to perfection in the air fryer, and coated with a rich, buttery Parmesan garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, minced garlic, and salt. Add chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat Air Fryer and Prepare Skewers: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, arranging them evenly for uniform cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Place the chicken skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Optionally, lightly spray the skewers with cooking spray to enhance browning. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through cooking until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden-brown exterior.
- Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce: While the chicken cooks, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until well combined to create a creamy sauce.
- Serve Skewers: Once chicken skewers are cooked, brush them generously with the warm garlic Parmesan sauce. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping, making this dish irresistibly flavorful and satisfying.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during cooking.
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust lemon pepper seasoning according to taste preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated and reused within 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
