Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a delightful and savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe that promises to impress at your next gathering or provide a satisfying weeknight dinner. If you love flavorful, juicy chicken basted in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce, then this dish is calling your name. Perfectly cooked using an air fryer, oven, or grill, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re seasoned with skewers or a newcomer to Garlic Parmesan Chicken, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to culinary success!
Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken, blending Italian-inspired flavors with a presentation that’s sure to please. This dish stands out for its rich, buttery garlic sauce, perfectly paired with the savory essence of parmesan. Created specifically to offer an easy, yet delicious meal, Garlic Parmesan Chicken has, consequently, become a favorite for both parties and weeknight dinners alike. Not only is it sophisticated in flavor, but it is also, quite conveniently, simple to prepare. Furthermore, the skewers not only help keep the chicken tender and juicy, but they also provide a fun and interactive dining experience for everyone involved.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
To prepare these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breast (cut into 3″ pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 stick butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup parmesan, grated
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, minced
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Optional Substitutions
- Chicken substitute: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives.
- Dairy-free: Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil and use a vegan parmesan substitute.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to create perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers:
Prepare the Skewers
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
- In a bowl, mix together the chicken seasoning ingredients (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper).
- Toss the chicken pieces in olive oil and the spice mixture until thoroughly coated.
Assemble the Skewers
- Pack the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the soaked skewers, ensuring they are closely packed for maximum juiciness.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
- Reserve about ⅓ of the sauce for basting during cooking; set aside the remainder for later.
Cook the Chicken
- Air Fryer Method: Cook 2-3 skewers at 400°F for 5 minutes. After flipping the skewers, baste them generously with the reserved garlic parmesan sauce. Then, continue to cook for an additional 7 to 9 minutes, ensuring that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 450°F. Cook skewers for 14 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with sauce. Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a golden finish.
- Grill Method: Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently and basting with sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. While jarred minced garlic may save time, it won’t deliver the same aromatic punch.
- For even more tender chicken, marinate the pieces in the seasoning and olive oil for about an hour before skewering.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes or choose a hotter hot sauce variety.
Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Opt for metal skewers if grilling the chicken, as they conduct heat better and help the chicken cook evenly.
- Baste the chicken several times during cooking to ensure a crispy, flavorful coating.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
These delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a balanced meal, serve them over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad offers a lighter option. Pair this savory chicken with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
Nutritional Information
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers provide a rich source of protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the olive oil and butter. The garlic contributes antioxidant benefits, while parmesan adds a good amount of calcium.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Vitamins: A, C, D, E, Calcium, Iron
This dish offers a satisfying meal without sacrificing nutrition.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken skewers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 400°F. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken.
Pro Tip:
Freeze any extra skewers in individual portions for quick meals on hand. Simply thaw in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer or oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Yes! You can easily use the oven or grill methods outlined in the recipe.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you verify that your hot sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.
- Can I use pre-grated Parmesan? While freshly grated Parmesan is undoubtedly the best option for optimal flavor, pre-grated Parmesan can work in a pinch. However, keep in mind that pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly or offer the same rich flavor that freshly grated cheese provides. Therefore, if you’re in a hurry or don’t have access to fresh cheese, using pre-grated Parmesan is perfectly acceptable. Just be aware that the final dish may taste slightly different. In conclusion, for the best results, always try to use freshly grated Parmesan, but don’t hesitate to use pre-grated if that’s what you have on hand.
- What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers? This dish complements roasted vegetables, a side of rice, or a fresh salad beautifully.
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Conclusion
Thank you for joining us today! We hope you enjoy crafting these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or savoring them during a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any personal twists you added to the recipe—we’d love to hear how it turned out for you!