Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With juicy chicken pieces coated in a flavorful garlic and parmesan mixture, this recipe brings together great taste and simple preparation. Plus, it’s a fun dish to share with friends and family!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2-2 pounds chicken thighs or tenders, cut in 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lowry’s)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions:
Season: Add the chicken pieces to a bowl. Season with seasoning salt, mayo, garlic powder, and grated parmesan. Mix to coat evenly. Allow the chicken skewers to marinate for as little as 20 minutes and ideally, 4-16 hours covered in the refrigerator.
Butter: In a bowl, combine the butter, pressed garlic, parsley, parmesan, chili crisp, and lemon juice. Press with a fork to create a compound butter. Zap in the microwave for 5 seconds just to loosen it a tad bit.
Skewer: Thread chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers and set aside for later. Preheat an air fryer or an outdoor grill. I usually air fry the skewers at 400 degrees F.
Cook: Once the air fryer is heated, add 4-7 skewers at a time, taking care not to overcrowd so that they cook evenly. Cook the chicken skewers for 6 minutes, flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
Baste: Check the temp of the chicken; it should have crossed 150 degrees F at this point. Baste the chicken once it does, and cook for 1 minute. Then flip, baste the other side, and cook for another 30-40 seconds. Check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165 degrees F.
Serve: Remove skewers from the air fryer, top with more parmesan or parsley, and serve warm with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers taste great when served hot. You can enjoy them with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. They also make a tasty appetizer at parties!
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
If you have leftovers, store the chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before skewering to prevent burning.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili crunch based on your spice preference.
Variation
You can try using different types of meat, like shrimp or beef, for a twist on this recipe. Changing the seasoning or adding different vegetables to the skewers can also make a fun variation!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just note that they may cook quicker, so watch the cooking time.
2. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165 degrees F.
3. Can I grill these skewers instead?
Yes! These skewers can be grilled outdoors instead of using an air fryer. Just preheat your grill and cook until golden brown and cooked through.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5-2 pounds chicken thighs or tenders, cut in 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 teaspoons seasoning salt (such as Lowry’s)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
Compound Butter
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the chicken pieces to a bowl. Season with seasoning salt, mayo, garlic powder, and grated parmesan. Mix to coat evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, ideally 4-16 hours, covered in the refrigerator.
- In a bowl, combine the butter, pressed garlic, parsley, parmesan, chili crisp, and lemon juice. Press with a fork to create a compound butter. Microwave for 5 seconds to loosen.
- Thread marinated chicken onto metal or wooden skewers and set aside. Preheat an air fryer or an outdoor grill.
Cooking
- Air fry the skewers at 400 degrees F. Cook 4-7 skewers at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook for 6 minutes, flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Baste the chicken when it reaches an internal temperature of 150 degrees F, cook for 1 minute, flip, baste, and then cook an additional 30-40 seconds.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer, it should read 165 degrees F.
Serving
- Remove skewers from the air fryer, top with more parmesan or parsley, and serve warm with your favorite sides.