Pin it
This is my family's go-to recipe when we crave something truly special. These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers always turn heads with their mouth-watering aroma and golden brown color. I love using chicken thighs because they stay so incredibly juicy while getting perfectly crispy on the outside. Trust me your kitchen will smell amazing.
My Secret to Success
I've made these skewers countless times in my kitchen and they never disappoint. The magic lies in that rich garlic parmesan butter sauce that infuses every bite with flavor. They're so easy to pull together even on busy weeknights and fancy enough for when friends come over.
Grab These Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: 2 pounds of boneless skinless ones they're always my pick for the juiciest skewers
- Skewers: I keep both wood and metal on hand pick what works for your cooking method
- Butter: 1/2 cup melted it makes everything better
- Garlic: 4 fresh cloves minced I never skimp here
- Parmesan: 1/2 cup freshly grated it makes such a difference
- Lemon: The zest and juice from 1 fresh lemon adds such brightness
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just 1/4 teaspoon gives a nice gentle warmth
- Salt and Pepper: Season to your taste
Let's Get Cooking
- First That Amazing Sauce
- Start by melting your butter in a bowl I like using the microwave in 30 second bursts. Mix in your minced garlic fresh parmesan lemon zest and juice plus a pinch of those pepper flakes if you're using them.
- Prepping Your Skewers
- Cut your chicken into nice bite sized chunks I aim for about 1.5 inches. Thread them onto your skewers leaving a little space between each piece so they cook evenly. Give them a good sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Time to Cook
- If you're using your air fryer set it to 350°F. Brush those skewers generously with your butter sauce then cook for about 15 minutes. I love giving them an extra baste every 5 minutes. For oven folks crank it to 425°F and plan on about 18 minutes turning and basting every 6 minutes.
- The Final Touch
- Once they're done drizzle with any leftover sauce grate some fresh parmesan over top and don't forget those lemon wedges on the side.
Pin it
Kitchen Notes
My kids aren't big fans of spice so I often skip the red pepper flakes. The air fryer is my favorite way to get them super crispy but they're just as delicious in the oven. Sometimes I'll even skip the skewers altogether and just make little nuggets adjusting the cooking time down a bit.
What to Serve With Them
These skewers shine alongside so many sides. We love them with fluffy quinoa or those cute pearl couscous. A big green salad on the side keeps things light. They're perfect for lunch prep too toss them in your meal prep containers with some roasted veggies.
Saving Leftovers
Pop any leftovers in an airtight container they'll keep nicely in the fridge for about 4 days. When it's time to reheat I usually give them a quick zap in the microwave. But if you've got an extra minute the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes brings back that lovely crispy exterior.
Air Fryer vs Oven Tips
I adore my air fryer for these it gives them such a nice crispy finish. But don't worry if you're using your oven just remember to give them a turn and a baste as they cook. Both ways end up delicious the chicken stays juicy and that garlic parmesan flavor is always amazing.
Skewer Success
For indoor cooking your wooden skewers won't need soaking they might get a bit brown but that's fine. If you're heading outside to grill give those wooden ones a good 30 minute soak first. I actually keep metal skewers on hand too they're great for frequent use.
Pin it
Perfect for Parties
These skewers never last long at our family gatherings. They're just right for game days or backyard parties. Everyone loves food on a stick and that garlic parmesan combo is always a crowd pleaser. Plus they're so easy to grab and enjoy while mingling.
Fits Your Healthy Lifestyle
When I'm watching my carbs these skewers are my go to. They're naturally keto friendly loaded with protein and good fats. I'll serve them with cauliflower rice or a big avocado salad for a complete low carb meal that keeps me satisfied.
Make Them Extra Special
Sometimes I'll toss fresh herbs into my butter sauce parsley and thyme are favorites. A touch of smoked paprika adds such warmth. When I'm feeling fancy a little drizzle of truffle oil at the end makes them absolutely restaurant worthy.
Kid Approved Version
My little ones gobble these up when I make them minus the spicy stuff of course. Setting up some dipping sauces on the side makes dinner more fun. They love dunking them in ranch or honey mustard it's a great way to get them excited about dinner.
Complete Your Meal
We love these skewers with all sorts of sides. Some nights I'll serve them with herb flecked couscous other times with creamy mashed potatoes. A crisp cucumber salad adds such nice freshness. The garlic parmesan flavors really go with everything.
Pin it
Lunch Prep Winner
Sunday meal prep is so much easier with these in the rotation. I'll make a big batch portion them out with some steamed veggies or quinoa and I've got amazing lunches ready for the week. They reheat beautifully and always brighten up my workday.
Grilling Guide
When summer hits I love taking these outdoors. The grill adds such wonderful smoky notes. Just keep basting with that garlic parmesan butter as they cook. I use indirect heat to keep them from charring too quickly while staying perfectly juicy inside.
Extra Sauce Ideas
That garlic parmesan butter sauce is liquid gold. When I have extra I keep it in a jar in the fridge. It's amazing spread on warm bread works wonders on baked potatoes and makes any veggie dish extra special. It stays good for about a week if it lasts that long.
Fresh Citrus Magic
Sometimes I'll switch up the citrus using orange or lime instead of lemon. Each one brings its own personality to the dish. The orange adds subtle sweetness while lime gives a zesty kick. It's such an easy way to create new flavor profiles.
A Recipe You Need
These skewers have become my signature dish for good reason. They're simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for celebrations. The combination of tender chicken and that incredible garlic parmesan sauce just works every single time.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
- Yes, you can use chicken breast, but cooking time might need to be adjusted. Chicken thighs are preferred as they stay juicier and more flavorful.
- → Why does the butter sauce firm up?
- The butter sauce firms up when it cools due to its high fat content. This is completely normal and won't affect the final taste or texture of the dish.
- → Can I make these skewers without an air fryer?
- Yes, you can grill these skewers or cook them in the oven. Just adjust cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- → Do I need to soak wooden skewers?
- If you're using wooden skewers in the air fryer, soaking isn't necessary. However, if you plan to grill, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- → Can I prepare the butter sauce ahead?
- Yes, you can make the garlic parmesan butter sauce up to 3 days ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and let it soften before using.