There’s something truly magical about the way garlic and butter work together. Add a touch of honey, a handful of fresh herbs, and you’ve got a flavor combination that transforms even the simplest dish into something crave-worthy. Now imagine all of that infused into tender, juicy pieces of chicken—crisped to golden perfection in your air fryer and brushed with rich, fragrant garlic herb butter. That’s what these Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Skewers are all about.
This is one of those recipes that feels indulgent, like something you’d order at a restaurant and wonder how they got it so flavorful and perfectly cooked. But the beauty of this dish is just how accessible it is. With everyday pantry spices, a few fresh ingredients, and minimal prep, you can pull off a dinner that’s both elegant and weeknight-friendly. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, giving you charred edges and juicy centers without needing to fire up the grill or deal with messy stovetop splatter.
The first time I made these, I was just looking for a way to use up some chicken thighs sitting in my fridge. I wasn’t expecting them to become an instant household favorite. But after that first bite—the buttery richness, the subtle sweetness from the honey, the boldness of the spices—it was clear this wasn’t just a one-time dinner. These skewers are now a regular in our weekly rotation, and they never fail to impress.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a hungry family, or hosting friends, these garlic herb butter chicken skewers are always a hit. They’re easy to prep, fast to cook, and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve in a variety of ways—over rice, with a salad, tucked into flatbread, or even on their own as an appetizer. No matter how you enjoy them, one thing’s for sure: this recipe is going to become a go-to in your kitchen, too.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic herb chicken Recipe
These skewers check all the boxes when it comes to a meal that’s both satisfying and simple. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe delivers big flavor without complicated steps. Here are just a few reasons you’ll fall in love with this dish:
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
The prep time is minimal, especially if you start with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. A quick toss in the marinade, some skewering, and a little air fryer magic is all it takes. Even the garlic herb butter comes together in under five minutes on the stovetop. It’s truly a low-effort, high-reward kind of meal.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Chicken skewers are a universally loved option. They’re fun to eat, easy to portion, and perfect for both kids and adults. The flavor is bold but not overly spicy, and you can always adjust the heat level to suit your family’s tastes. Serve them at a dinner party, a casual get-together, or even as a game-day snack—they fit right in no matter the occasion.
Bold, Balanced Flavor in Every Bite
The spice blend is simple but powerful: a little garlic and onion powder, paprika for warmth, cayenne for a subtle kick, and turmeric for depth and color. Once cooked, the chicken is brushed with a luscious garlic butter that’s been kissed with honey and parsley. That final drizzle elevates the entire dish and makes each bite feel special.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These skewers hold up beautifully in the fridge and reheat like a dream. You can double the batch, stash the extras, and enjoy flavorful, protein-packed lunches or dinners throughout the week. They also freeze well, which makes them an excellent option for busy schedules or meal planning.
Health Benefits of this Garlic herb chicken
While these skewers feel indulgent, they’re actually packed with nutritional benefits. The ingredients are simple and whole, offering a delicious way to nourish your body without sacrificing taste.
Lean Protein from Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are a fantastic source of protein. They’re slightly higher in fat than chicken breasts, but that’s actually a good thing in this context—it means the meat stays juicy and tender, even in the high heat of an air fryer. Protein helps keep you full and satisfied, supports muscle growth and repair, and plays a key role in overall health.
Healthy Fats from Avocado Oil and Butter
While butter is used for flavor, avocado oil is used in the marinade for its high smoke point and heart-healthy fats. Avocado oil contains monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve nutrient absorption. A small amount goes a long way, and it helps the seasoning adhere beautifully to the chicken.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Spices like turmeric and cayenne pepper do more than add flavor—they also come with powerful health benefits. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cayenne pepper can help boost metabolism and support digestive health. Even garlic, which is used both in the marinade and the butter sauce, is known for its immune-boosting qualities.
Portion-Controlled and Low in Carbs
Each skewer gives you a controlled serving of chicken, which is especially helpful if you’re watching your portions or counting macros. Plus, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or keto-style eating. If you’re gluten-free, simply make sure your spices and butter are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go.
Balanced with Natural Sweetness
The small amount of honey in the garlic herb butter adds a hint of sweetness without spiking your sugar intake. It balances the savory notes in the chicken and rounds out the flavor without overpowering the dish. This touch of natural sweetness helps create a rich, well-rounded taste profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
Before diving into the ingredients and method, let’s take a quick look at how much time you’ll need to set aside and what to expect in terms of servings and nutrition.
Total Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 20 minutes to marinate)
- Cook Time: 18–20 minutes in the air fryer
- Total Time: About 55 minutes (including marination)
You can shorten or extend the marinating time based on your schedule. If you only have 20 minutes, that’s fine. But if you can let the chicken sit for an hour or more, the flavor will be even better.
Serving Size and Yield
- Servings: 4 generous portions
- Skewers: Approximately 8–10 small skewers, depending on size
You can double the recipe easily if you’re cooking for a crowd. Just cook in batches if your air fryer basket isn’t large enough to hold all the skewers in one go.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~340
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
Please note these are general estimates and may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use. The calorie count includes the garlic herb butter brushed on after cooking.
Ingredients List of this Garlic herb chicken
This recipe uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. However, each one plays a key role in delivering bold, well-balanced flavor.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Cut into 2-inch pieces. Chicken thighs are ideal here because they stay juicy and tender when air-fried.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and that familiar savory flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the umami taste and complements the garlic.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Provides color and a mild smokiness.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Optional, but it adds a gentle heat.
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric – For earthiness and a golden hue.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Helps the meat absorb the seasoning and stay juicy.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – A classic that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil – Helps the seasoning stick and adds healthy fats.
For the Garlic Herb Butter
- 1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup) – Use a high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must. It’s the star of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Just a touch to balance the savory with a bit of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – Adds color and a fresh, herbal finish.
You can adjust the quantities slightly depending on your taste. For example, add more garlic if you love it, or reduce cayenne for a milder version.
Stay tuned for the next sections where we’ll walk through the complete step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, pairing suggestions, and plenty of pro tips to help you nail this recipe on your first try. Let’s get cooking!
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Garlic herb chicken
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the fun part—bringing these garlic herb butter chicken skewers to life. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for a gathering, these instructions will guide you through every step with confidence. We’ll break it down into manageable stages so you never feel overwhelmed. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces. Uniform size is key here because it ensures the chicken cooks evenly in the air fryer. If the pieces are too small, they may dry out. Too large, and they may take longer to cook through.
Next, place the chicken in a large mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, combine your dry spices—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir them together until well blended. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over the chicken pieces.
Drizzle the avocado oil over the seasoned chicken and toss everything together until each piece is fully coated in the spice blend and oil. You can use your hands, a spoon, or even a pair of tongs—whatever you feel most comfortable with.
Step 2: Let the Chicken Marinate
This is the moment when all those spices begin to work their magic. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. If you’ve got the time, letting it sit for an hour—or even overnight in the refrigerator—will allow the flavors to sink even deeper into the meat.
If you’re marinating overnight, make sure to cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a sealed container. Then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
While the chicken marinates, you’ll make the garlic herb butter. This step is simple but adds a luxurious layer of flavor that sets this dish apart.
In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Stir continuously and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown—burnt garlic can turn bitter quickly.
Once the garlic is fragrant and slightly softened, turn off the heat. Stir in the honey and chopped parsley. Set this garlic herb butter aside, keeping it warm. You’ll brush it over the skewers once they’re cooked, but you can also reserve a bit for serving if you’d like a little drizzle on the side.
Step 4: Soak the Skewers (If Using Wooden Skewers)
If you’re using wooden skewers, this is a crucial step. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading on the chicken. This prevents the skewers from burning or catching fire in the air fryer.
Of course, if you have metal skewers, feel free to skip this step. Metal skewers are reusable, sturdy, and great for holding heat—which helps the chicken cook more evenly.
Step 5: Thread the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated and your skewers are ready, start threading the chicken onto the skewers. Try to pack the pieces snugly but not too tightly. Leaving a little space between each chunk helps the heat circulate in the air fryer, ensuring a crisp exterior and a tender, juicy center.
Depending on the size of your air fryer basket, you may want to trim the skewers down a bit or use smaller ones that fit comfortably. You don’t want the skewers pressing against the walls of the basket, as that can cause uneven cooking.
Step 6: Prepare the Air Fryer
Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This also helps prevent the chicken from sticking. Be sure to leave a little space around the edges so air can still circulate.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F if your model requires preheating. Some newer models heat up quickly and don’t need this step, but others work best when preheated for a few minutes. Always follow your manufacturer’s guidelines.
Step 7: Cook the Chicken Skewers
Place the skewers in a single layer inside the basket. Avoid overcrowding—if needed, cook the skewers in two batches. This ensures every piece gets crispy and golden.
Air fry the chicken skewers at 400°F for 10 minutes. After the first 10 minutes, open the basket, flip the skewers, and air fry for another 6 to 8 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F, which is the safe minimum for cooked chicken. A meat thermometer comes in handy here and guarantees perfect results every time.
During the final few minutes, you’ll notice the edges of the chicken start to caramelize and crisp up beautifully. That’s when you know you’re close.
Step 8: Brush with Garlic Herb Butter
As soon as the skewers come out of the air fryer, grab your warm garlic herb butter and a basting brush. Generously brush each skewer with the butter mixture while they’re still hot. This allows the butter to melt into the chicken, infusing it with even more flavor.
You can also drizzle any remaining butter over the top just before serving or keep some on the side for dipping. Either way, this final step adds richness and a beautiful, glossy finish to the dish.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley over the skewers for a pop of freshness and color. You can even add a squeeze of lemon juice or a few lemon wedges on the side for a citrusy contrast, though that’s completely optional.
Serve immediately while the skewers are hot, juicy, and aromatic. The combination of the crispy edges, tender interior, and garlicky butter finish is absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve this Garlic herb chicken
These chicken skewers are incredibly versatile, which makes them perfect for all kinds of meals—from quick lunches to full dinners. Here are a few delicious serving suggestions to suit your mood, your guests, or your pantry.
Serve Over Rice
A classic and comforting choice. Jasmine or basmati rice pairs wonderfully with the spiced chicken and garlic butter. You can spoon some extra herb butter over the rice to tie everything together.
Make It a Wrap
Tuck the chicken pieces into warm pita bread or flatbread with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of garlic sauce or tahini. It’s an easy handheld meal that feels fresh and filling.
With a Side Salad
Keep things light by serving the skewers alongside a simple salad. Think cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a lemon-olive oil dressing. The freshness balances the richness of the chicken beautifully.
With Roasted Vegetables
Pair the skewers with a tray of roasted vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, or cauliflower. This turns the meal into a colorful, nutrient-packed feast.
As an Appetizer
Cut the chicken pieces a bit smaller and make mini skewers to serve as an appetizer. They’re perfect for parties or gatherings, especially with a little dipping sauce on the side.
Pairing Suggestions of this Garlic herb chicken
The flavors in these garlic herb butter chicken skewers are bold, savory, and slightly sweet, which opens up so many delicious possibilities when it comes to pairing. Whether you’re planning a full dinner spread or just looking to round out the meal, these ideas will help you build a well-balanced plate that’s both satisfying and exciting.
Side Dishes That Complement Beautifully
A great side dish should contrast or enhance the flavors of the main course. Here are a few that do both:
1. Lemon Herb Rice
A bright, lemony rice with herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro makes a perfect backdrop for the rich garlic butter flavors. It keeps the meal light and fresh while soaking up any extra sauce.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you’re in the mood for comfort food, nothing beats fluffy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic. The creaminess balances the slight heat of the chicken, and the textures are wonderfully satisfying together.
3. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
A chilled couscous salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing counterpart to the warm, savory skewers. It adds color and crunch to your plate.
4. Roasted Vegetables
A simple mix of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and red onions complements the spice of the chicken and gives your meal more depth and nutrition. Drizzle a little olive oil and roast until caramelized and slightly crispy.
5. Flatbread or Pita
Soft, warm flatbreads are great for scooping up the chicken and garlic butter. You can even serve the skewers with a bowl of hummus or a creamy yogurt sauce for dipping.
Drink Pairings That Refresh and Enhance
Though we’re keeping things halal and won’t be suggesting alcoholic pairings, there are plenty of flavorful, festive drink options that bring out the best in this dish:
1. Sparkling Lemon Mint Water
Refreshing and bright, this lightly sweetened beverage balances the richness of the garlic butter and resets your palate between bites.
2. Iced Hibiscus Tea
Slightly tart and beautifully floral, hibiscus tea is a cooling drink that pairs well with the warm spices of the chicken.
3. Mango Lassi (without yogurt for dairy-free)
A smooth, fruity mango drink offers sweetness that pairs deliciously with the spices. If you want to keep it dairy-free, use almond or coconut milk.
4. Cucumber and Lime Cooler
Infused water with cucumber slices, lime wedges, and mint leaves makes a crisp, clean drink option that doesn’t overwhelm the dish.
5. Spiced Chai (Iced or Warm)
If you’re serving the skewers as part of a heartier meal or dinner, a lightly sweetened chai with warming spices like cardamom and cinnamon can pair surprisingly well with the savory chicken.
By mixing and matching your sides and drinks, you can tailor this dish to suit anything from a casual lunch to an elegant dinner.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
These skewers are just as good the next day, which makes them an ideal choice for meal prepping or saving leftovers. With the right storage techniques, they’ll maintain their juicy texture and bold flavor.
How to Store Leftovers in the Refrigerator
Once the chicken has cooled completely, remove it from the skewers and transfer the pieces into an airtight container. Be sure to include any extra garlic herb butter that may have pooled on your serving plate—it adds flavor and moisture when reheating.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the texture may begin to dry out, so it’s best to enjoy them while they’re still at their best.
Freezing the Chicken Skewers
To freeze cooked skewers, first let them cool fully to room temperature. Then carefully remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze them until solid—about 1 to 2 hours.
Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label it with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. This method prevents the pieces from sticking together, making it easier to pull out just the portion you need later on.
How to Reheat for the Best Texture
In the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer and heat for about 5–7 minutes, flipping once halfway through. This method helps maintain that delicious crispiness.
In the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through.
On the Stovetop:
Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cover, cooking until heated through. Remove the lid in the last minute to crisp them up slightly.
Avoid the Microwave if Possible:
While it’s fast, microwaving can make the chicken rubbery. If you must use it, add a damp paper towel over the chicken to lock in some moisture and heat in 30-second intervals.
Pro Tip:
If you saved any leftover garlic herb butter, reheat it gently and drizzle it over the reheated chicken. It will bring the flavors back to life and add extra moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Garlic herb chicken
Even though this recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, there are a few pitfalls that could affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them so your chicken turns out amazing every single time.
Not Cutting Chicken Evenly
If the chicken pieces are different sizes, they’ll cook at different rates. Some will be dry while others are undercooked. Take the time to cut your chicken into uniform chunks so everything cooks evenly and finishes at the same time.
Skipping the Marination Time
You might be tempted to throw everything in the air fryer right away, but marinating—even for just 20 minutes—makes a huge difference. It allows the spices to absorb into the meat, creating layers of flavor instead of just surface seasoning.
Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
An overcrowded basket leads to uneven cooking and soggy edges. Air needs to circulate around each piece for that crisp, golden texture. Cook in batches if needed—it’s worth the extra time.
Not Using a Thermometer
Guessing whether chicken is done can be risky. Undercooked chicken is unsafe, and overcooked chicken is dry. A simple meat thermometer ensures the internal temperature reaches 165°F without overcooking.
Letting the Garlic Burn
When making the garlic herb butter, cook the garlic just until fragrant. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can overpower the dish. Keep a close eye and remove it from the heat as soon as it starts to release its aroma.
Forgetting to Brush With Butter While Hot
Brushing the chicken with butter while it’s still hot helps it melt and soak into the meat. If you wait too long, the butter won’t penetrate, and you’ll miss out on that luscious finish.
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you get the most out of this dish and make it taste just as amazing as it looks.
Pro Tips
To help you truly master these garlic herb butter chicken skewers, here are some extra pointers that will elevate your cooking experience. These tips are all about refining technique, enhancing flavor, and making your time in the kitchen easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re new to air frying or you’re a seasoned home cook, these pro tips can take your results to the next level.
Use Chicken Thighs for Best Results
While you can use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand, boneless, skinless chicken thighs really are the star here. They’re more forgiving in the air fryer and less likely to dry out. The natural fat content helps lock in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Don’t Overmarinate
While longer marination builds deeper flavor, overmarinating—especially overnight—can sometimes make the chicken overly soft, especially with acidic marinades. Since this recipe doesn’t include lemon juice or vinegar, it’s safer to marinate longer, but 1–2 hours is the sweet spot for flavor without altering texture.
Preheat Your Air Fryer
Not all air fryers require preheating, but if yours does, don’t skip it. A preheated air fryer creates a quick sear on the outside of the chicken, which helps lock in moisture and gives you that deliciously golden, slightly crispy edge.
Brush with Butter Just Before Serving
While it’s tempting to brush the chicken with the garlic butter immediately after it’s cooked, try brushing it right before you bring it to the table. This gives it a glossy, freshly-buttered look and intensifies the aroma. It also prevents the butter from drying out if the skewers are sitting for a few minutes before serving.
Keep a Little Garlic Herb Butter for Dipping
This one’s optional, but highly recommended. Set aside a few tablespoons of the garlic herb butter before brushing the chicken. Warm it up and serve it in a small dish for dipping. It’s a game-changer, especially if you’re pairing the skewers with bread, rice, or roasted veggies.
Use Metal Skewers for Reusability and Even Cooking
If you make skewers regularly, investing in reusable metal skewers is a smart choice. They conduct heat, helping the meat cook more evenly from the inside out. Plus, they’re dishwasher-safe and environmentally friendly.
Rotate the Skewers Halfway Through
Don’t just flip the skewers—rotate them 180 degrees during cooking. This ensures every side gets exposed to the hot air and browns evenly. Some air fryer baskets have hot spots, and rotating the skewers prevents uneven cooking.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon Before Serving
For a burst of brightness, a quick squeeze of lemon over the hot skewers can cut through the richness of the butter and spices. It’s optional but adds a fresh contrast that’s especially great in warmer weather.
Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving
Just like with grilled or roasted meats, letting the chicken skewers rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute. This helps the chicken stay juicy instead of releasing its moisture all over the plate when cut or bitten into.
Double the Garlic Herb Butter for Meal Prep
If you’re planning to eat the skewers throughout the week, make a double batch of the garlic herb butter. Keep it in the fridge and reheat small amounts as needed. Drizzling it over leftovers before reheating or packing it in a small container for work lunches makes your meals feel freshly made.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have questions? Here are answers to some of the most common ones to help you get the best results every time.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, absolutely. Chicken breasts will work, though they may cook slightly faster and have a leaner texture. To avoid dryness, cut them into uniform chunks and reduce the air frying time by a few minutes. Keep a close eye and check for doneness at around the 14–15 minute mark.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can marinate the chicken the day before and store it in the fridge overnight. Then, when you’re ready to cook, just thread the chicken onto skewers and pop them in the air fryer. You can also cook the skewers fully and reheat them later using the tips in the storage section.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem! You can bake the skewers in a 425°F oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For an even crispier finish, switch to the broiler during the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just swap the butter for a plant-based version. There are many excellent vegan butters available that melt well and have a similar richness. Keep the honey for balance, or replace it with maple syrup or agave if you prefer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free as written, assuming your spices and butter are certified gluten-free. Always double-check your labels, especially for spice blends, to ensure there are no hidden additives.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s very mildly spicy. The cayenne adds a subtle warmth, not a strong burn. If you’re sensitive to spice or serving children, feel free to reduce or omit the cayenne entirely. If you want more heat, you can increase the cayenne or add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic herb butter.
Can I use store-bought garlic butter?
You can, but the flavor won’t be quite as fresh or customizable. Making it from scratch only takes a few minutes and lets you control the balance of garlic, herbs, and sweetness.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Start with chicken thighs, marinate them well, avoid overcooking, and don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket. Brushing with butter while hot also helps seal in moisture and adds a luxurious finish.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini all work well. Just be sure to cut them into similarly sized pieces so they cook evenly alongside the chicken. You may need to cook slightly longer if adding dense vegetables.
What are some other ways to use the garlic herb butter?
It’s incredibly versatile. Use it on roasted vegetables, drizzle over rice, brush onto grilled bread, or melt into pasta. Once you taste it, you’ll want to put it on everything.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This Garlic herb chicken recipe is one of those gems you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. From the bold, spiced marinade to the rich, garlicky butter brushed over crispy chicken skewers, every element of this dish is thoughtfully designed to be both approachable and impressive.
The air fryer does most of the work for you, giving you perfect results every time without the mess of frying or the hassle of grilling. It’s a dish that adapts beautifully to your lifestyle—whether you need a fast dinner, a protein-packed lunch, or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. And let’s not forget how easily it can be customized. Swap in different spices, use your favorite herbs, or adjust the heat to suit your taste. There’s plenty of room for creativity while still sticking to the core techniques that make this recipe shine.
So, are you ready to give it a try? Pull out your air fryer, grab a few basic ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling garlic, butter, and herbs. Then gather around the table and enjoy a meal that feels special—even on a weeknight.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Share your thoughts in the comments below, let me know if you made any tweaks, or tell me what you served it with. And if you snap a photo of your skewers (especially with that glossy garlic butter shine), don’t forget to tag me. I’d love to see your creations and share them with the community.
Happy cooking!
PrintGarlic Herb Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer Recipe)
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including marination)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender, flavorful chicken thighs marinated in bold spices, air-fried to golden perfection, and brushed with homemade garlic herb butter. Quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!
Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 2″ pieces)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper
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¼ tsp turmeric
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1 tsp kosher salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp avocado oil
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1 stick unsalted butter
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6 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
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Combine spices and toss with chicken and avocado oil.
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Marinate for 20 minutes (or longer).
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Melt butter over medium heat, add garlic, cook until fragrant. Stir in honey and parsley.
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Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers.
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Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes. Flip and cook another 6–8 minutes.
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Brush hot skewers with garlic herb butter.
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Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
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Use chicken thighs for best texture and juiciness.
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Adjust cayenne for preferred spice level.
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Preheat air fryer if required by your model.
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Can be made dairy-free with vegan butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American / Fusion