Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers in Air Fryer – Crispy & Juicy

There’s something downright magical about garlic butter. When it’s infused with herbs, melted gently, and brushed generously over sizzling chicken, it transforms the ordinary into something unforgettable. Now, imagine that garlic butter mingling with crispy edges from the air fryer, seeping into tender chicken skewers that cook in just minutes. That’s what you get with these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers—a meal that looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and comes together with minimal effort.

This dish was born out of one of those “what’s-for-dinner” moments when I was staring into the fridge with no plan and very little time. I had some chicken thighs that needed to be used, a half stick of butter, and a lot of garlic (as always). I wasn’t in the mood to marinate, bread, or even grill. But I did want something with bold flavor and a crisp finish. The air fryer felt like the obvious choice, and it delivered far beyond my expectations.

What came out of that experiment was a recipe so full of flavor, it instantly earned a spot in my weekly rotation. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the garlic and herb seasoning, while the garlic Parmesan butter adds a luscious finish that feels both comforting and slightly fancy. It’s the kind of dish you can make on a rushed Tuesday night, yet it’s worthy of serving to friends at a weekend dinner.

Another reason I love this recipe? It’s incredibly adaptable. You can serve it with rice, salad, pita, or even just some roasted veggies. You can adjust the heat, swap out the herbs, or double the garlic if you’re a fan (I always am). And thanks to the air fryer, you get a perfectly cooked result every single time—juicy on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and brushed with buttery goodness from edge to edge.

So if you’re craving something flavorful, satisfying, and completely doable even on your busiest nights, this is the recipe for you. It’s cozy, crave-worthy, and just complicated enough to feel like you really did something special.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, and once you try them, you’ll see exactly why they’ve become a go-to in my kitchen. First off, let’s talk flavor. These skewers are packed with it—from the bold garlic and herb seasoning on the chicken to the buttery, garlicky, cheesy finish that melts beautifully over each bite. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it took way more effort than it did.

Another reason this recipe stands out is how easy it is. The ingredients are super simple—most of them are probably in your pantry or fridge right now. You don’t need to marinate the chicken for hours, make a complicated sauce, or even turn on your oven. Everything comes together quickly in the air fryer, which does most of the heavy lifting and gives the chicken that golden, slightly crispy texture that’s just so satisfying.

It’s also incredibly family-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, feeding a hungry crowd, or just trying to spice up your weeknight meal routine, these skewers deliver. Kids love them because they’re juicy and flavorful without being too spicy, and adults love them because they feel a little elevated—like something you’d order at a cozy neighborhood bistro.

Let’s not forget how versatile they are. You can serve these skewers with just about anything. Toss them on top of a salad, serve them alongside some fluffy couscous or buttered noodles, or wrap them in warm pita with a smear of yogurt or hummus. You could even slice the chicken off the skewers and toss it into a pasta or grain bowl.

And because the chicken is cooked in the air fryer, cleanup is a breeze. No splattering oil, no greasy pans, and no hovering over a stove. Just season, skewer, cook, and brush with that glorious garlic butter. The end result is restaurant-quality flavor without the stress or mess.

In short, this is the kind of recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly flexible—and I promise, once you try it, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Health Benefits of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

While these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers taste indulgent, they’re actually packed with some surprisingly healthy perks—especially when you make them with high-quality ingredients and use the air fryer instead of deep frying. First, let’s talk about the star of the show: chicken thighs. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, supporting immune health, and keeping you full and satisfied.

Though chicken thighs have slightly more fat than chicken breasts, they also have more flavor and tend to stay juicier during cooking, especially in high-heat environments like an air fryer. Plus, the type of fat in chicken thighs includes monounsaturated fats—those heart-healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol when eaten in moderation.

Now let’s talk about garlic. Not only does garlic add rich, savory flavor to this dish, but it also brings a whole list of potential health benefits. Garlic has been shown to support immune function, reduce inflammation, and even help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. It contains antioxidants and natural compounds that may help fight off colds and boost overall health.

The herbs in this recipe—whether you’re using a pre-mixed garlic and herb seasoning or making your own blend—are full of natural plant compounds that add flavor without extra calories, sodium, or fat. Dried basil, parsley, oregano, and black pepper all have their own antioxidant properties, making this dish flavorful and functional.

Parmesan cheese, though used in small amounts here, adds a punch of calcium and umami flavor. It’s a hard cheese, which means it’s lower in moisture and used in smaller quantities, making it a great way to get that cheesy satisfaction without overdoing it.

And let’s not forget about the air fryer itself. Cooking with an air fryer significantly reduces the need for added oils, which can cut down on calories and unhealthy fats. You still get that golden, crispy texture, but without submerging your food in oil or loading up on unnecessary grease.

So, while this dish feels like comfort food, it also offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and flavorful, natural ingredients. Pair it with some steamed or roasted vegetables and you’ve got a well-rounded, satisfying meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

When it comes to weeknight dinners, speed and simplicity matter. The good news? This recipe checks both boxes while still delivering big on flavor.

Total Preparation Time:

• Soaking skewers (if using wood): 30 minutes (can be done while prepping ingredients)
• Active prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time (including soaking): About 40-45 minutes

Servings:

• This recipe serves 4 people generously. You’ll get approximately 2 skewers per person, depending on how large your skewers are and how you cut your chicken.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 540mg

Keep in mind that these nutrition facts will vary slightly based on the exact ingredients you use. If you’re following a low-carb, high-protein, or ketogenic diet, this recipe fits in beautifully. And because the air fryer cuts back on oil, you’re keeping the fat content more balanced without sacrificing any of the crispy texture or flavor.

This makes it ideal for anyone trying to eat more mindfully, without giving up the satisfying, full-flavor meals they love. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for yourself, or feeding guests, this recipe keeps things nutritious and totally crave-worthy.

Ingredients List of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

This recipe is beautifully simple, and that’s part of its charm. With just a handful of ingredients, you’re able to create layers of bold, garlicky, cheesy flavor that’s comforting, savory, and hard to resist.

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 2-inch pieces)
  Chicken thighs are ideal here because they stay tender and juicy, especially when air-fried. If you prefer, you can substitute with boneless chicken breasts, but the final result may be a little drier.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Helps coat the chicken and allows the seasoning to stick. It also promotes a light crispness in the air fryer.
• 1½ tablespoons garlic and herb seasoning
  You can use a store-bought blend or mix your own using dried garlic, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and kosher salt. This is where the bulk of your flavor comes from, so don’t skimp!

For the Garlic Parmesan Butter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  Unsalted gives you better control over the final salt level. Make sure it’s softened so it mixes easily with the other ingredients.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  Fresh garlic is best here—it brings bold, aromatic flavor that’s key to this recipe.
• 1 tablespoon garlic and herb seasoning
  This echoes the flavors in the chicken and ties everything together.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  Balances the richness of the butter and enhances the garlic and herb flavors.
• ⅓ cup fresh chopped parsley
  Adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich butter.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible—it melts into the butter beautifully and adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the whole dish.

Optional Homemade Seasoning Mix:

If you don’t have garlic and herb seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own blend with the following:

• 1 teaspoon dried garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Next up, we’ll dive deep into the cooking process and break everything down step-by-step so you can nail this recipe on your very first try. Let’s get cooking!

Absolutely! Let’s dive right into the next section of this in-depth recipe article, continuing with:

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This is where all the magic happens. Don’t worry—whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s comfortable in the kitchen, these instructions are easy to follow, and I’ll walk you through every step. From preparing the skewers to mastering the air fryer timing, you’ll be set up for delicious success.

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, this is the very first thing you want to do. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This prevents them from burning or catching fire in the air fryer. You can do this while you prep the rest of the ingredients. If you’re using metal skewers and they fit your air fryer basket, you can skip this step.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces. You don’t need to be too exact, but keeping the pieces uniform helps them cook evenly. Chicken thighs have a bit of fat marbling, which is actually great for flavor, so don’t trim every last bit.

Once the chicken is cut, place the pieces in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle on your garlic and herb seasoning. Toss well so every piece is fully coated. If you’re making your own seasoning blend, now’s the time to mix it up and use about 1½ tablespoons for this step.

Pro tip: You can prep this part a few hours in advance and refrigerate the seasoned chicken. The extra time will allow the flavors to sink in even more, though it’s not strictly necessary.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Once your chicken is seasoned, begin threading the pieces onto your soaked wooden or metal skewers. Try to space them slightly apart—just enough to let the hot air from the air fryer circulate around each piece. You don’t want the pieces squished tightly together, or they might not cook evenly.

You’ll end up with about 8 medium skewers total. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you might need to cook these in two batches, which is completely fine.

Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer (Optional)

Depending on your air fryer model, you may want to preheat it to 400°F for a few minutes before adding the chicken. Some air fryers require preheating for best results, while others heat up very quickly. If your machine doesn’t mention preheating in the manual, feel free to skip this step.

Preheating does help create a slightly crispier edge on the chicken, so if you have time, it’s worth doing.

Step 5: Arrange Skewers in the Air Fryer Basket

Carefully lay your chicken skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping or touching the sides too much—good airflow is key to even cooking.

If needed, cook them in batches. You can keep the first batch warm in the oven at 200°F while the second batch finishes up.

Step 6: Air Fry for 8 Minutes

Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook the skewers for 8 minutes. At this point, the chicken will be about halfway cooked and should already be starting to brown around the edges. Open the basket, flip the skewers gently using tongs, and prepare to add some serious flavor.

Step 7: Brush with Garlic Parmesan Butter

While the skewers cook for the first 8 minutes, go ahead and make the garlic butter.

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, garlic and herb seasoning, kosher salt, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, spreadable butter. It should smell amazing at this point—garlicky, herby, and full of richness.

Using a pastry brush or spoon, brush a generous layer of the garlic butter over the skewers once they’ve been flipped. This layer will melt into the chicken as it continues to cook, soaking it with flavor and helping form that irresistible outer coating.

Step 8: Air Fry for Another 7 Minutes

Return the basket to the air fryer and cook the skewers for another 7 minutes at 400°F. At this point, the chicken should be fully cooked through, golden brown on the outside, and extremely juicy on the inside.

If you want to double-check, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F. Once you reach that, you’re good to go.

Step 9: Flip and Butter Again (Optional but Recommended)

For even more garlic butter goodness, flip the skewers one more time and brush the second side with any remaining butter. If you really want that slightly crispy, browned finish on the top layer, you can return the skewers to the air fryer for an additional 1–2 minutes.

This final blast of heat helps caramelize the butter and cheese mixture into a golden, cheesy crust that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 10: Serve Hot and Garnish

Once the skewers are perfectly cooked and buttered, transfer them to a serving platter. You can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top if you like, which adds a pop of color and flavor.

Serve them hot and fresh for the best texture and taste. The result is juicy, golden, garlicky chicken that’s slightly crisp on the edges and melt-in-your-mouth tender inside.

This whole process may sound detailed, but it’s truly easy once you try it. Plus, you’ll find the rhythm that works best for you—and soon enough, this will become one of those recipes you know by heart.

Let’s keep going with how to plate and pair these golden skewers for the ultimate meal experience.

How to Serve these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

There are so many delicious ways to serve these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers that you’ll never get bored. One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. You can build it into a hearty meal or keep things light and simple, depending on what you’re craving or who you’re feeding.

A classic option is to serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice. Basmati or jasmine rice work beautifully, soaking up all the buttery, garlicky drippings from the skewers. Add a few lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish, and you’ve got a comforting, balanced plate.

If you’re looking for something lighter, try serving the chicken on top of a crisp green salad. Arugula, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette make a fantastic pairing. The richness of the garlic butter contrasts nicely with the freshness of the greens.

For a more Mediterranean-style meal, wrap the skewers in warm pita or flatbread along with a little shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and a dollop of plain yogurt or garlic sauce. It’s like a street food-style chicken wrap—messy, flavorful, and totally satisfying.

You can also pair the skewers with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a low-carb dinner. Or try some buttery mashed potatoes or garlic bread on the side if you’re in the mood for something cozy and indulgent.

No matter how you serve them, don’t forget a little extra garlic butter on the side for dipping. Trust me, your family or guests will be fighting over the last bit of sauce.

Next up, we’ll explore the best pairing ideas—from side dishes to drinks—to turn this recipe into a complete, unforgettable meal.

Pairing Suggestions for these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Pairing the right sides and drinks with these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers takes your meal from great to absolutely unforgettable. The skewers themselves are rich, buttery, and bursting with savory garlic and herb flavor, so the best pairings balance that richness with freshness, texture, and maybe even a little tang or spice. Whether you’re serving these for dinner, at a gathering, or as part of a casual weekend meal, here are some pairing ideas that complement the dish beautifully.

Ideal Side Dishes

1. Lemon Herb Rice
A fluffy bed of basmati or jasmine rice cooked with a touch of lemon zest, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil is a natural partner for the skewers. The bright citrus notes help cut through the richness of the garlic butter and Parmesan.

2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add both color and texture. Try tossing them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a hint of smoked paprika before roasting. Their earthy sweetness brings balance to the savory skewers.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you’re leaning into full comfort mode, nothing beats a scoop of creamy garlic mashed potatoes alongside these skewers. The buttery potatoes echo the flavors in the garlic butter and turn the meal into something truly indulgent.

4. Simple Green Salad
To keep things light and fresh, pair the chicken with a crisp salad of romaine or arugula tossed with cucumbers, red onions, and a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing brightens up the dish and refreshes your palate between bites.

5. Couscous or Quinoa
For a Mediterranean twist, try a base of fluffy couscous or nutty quinoa. Add chopped herbs, a few crumbles of feta, and some diced tomatoes or olives for a fresh, balanced meal.

Dipping Sauces and Spreads

Even though the skewers are already brushed with a flavorful garlic butter, a little dipping sauce on the side never hurts.

• Yogurt garlic dip: Plain yogurt mixed with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt adds creaminess and tang.
• Tahini sauce: Earthy and smooth, tahini sauce with a squeeze of lemon pairs well with the herby chicken.
• Zhoug or chimichurri: If you’re in the mood for something with a kick, these herby, spicy sauces bring heat and complexity.

Drink Pairings

While we’re keeping this recipe halal and won’t suggest alcoholic pairings, there are still tons of refreshing beverage options to consider.

• Mint lemonade: A tart and refreshing choice that complements the bold flavors of the skewers.
• Cucumber lime cooler: Blend cucumber juice with lime, mint, and sparkling water for a crisp, hydrating drink.
• Sparkling pomegranate tea: Lightly sweet, fruity, and bubbly—it brings a refreshing contrast to the buttery chicken.

With all of these pairing ideas, you can build the kind of meal that feels both comforting and elegant. Next, we’ll talk about how to store, freeze, and reheat any leftovers, because you’re going to want to enjoy every last bite.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about these garlic Parmesan chicken skewers is how well they store and reheat. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, saving leftovers from a family dinner, or planning to freeze a batch for later, this recipe holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

Once the chicken skewers have cooled to room temperature, remove the meat from the skewers (if desired) and store it in an airtight container. You can also store the skewers whole if you have space in your container. Keep the garlic butter separate if you’ve saved some extra for reheating.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Container Tip: Use a shallow container or layer parchment paper between skewers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

These skewers are freezer-friendly and make an excellent meal to prep ahead of time. To freeze:

1. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely.
2. Remove chicken from skewers for easier storage.
3. Place in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 1–2 hours until solid.
4. Transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. You can also freeze uncooked, seasoned chicken pieces—just thread them on skewers after thawing.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to reheat, there are a few great options that maintain the texture and flavor of the chicken.

• Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F and cook the skewers for 4–5 minutes, or until heated through. This method restores a bit of that crisp exterior.
• Oven: Reheat at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes. Cover with foil if you don’t want the tops to brown too much.
• Stovetop: Warm in a nonstick pan over medium heat for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add a small spoonful of garlic butter for extra moisture.
• Microwave: Not ideal for maintaining texture, but it works in a pinch. Heat on medium power in 30-second bursts until warmed through.

Try to avoid overcooking during reheating, especially if using the microwave, as the chicken can dry out. A drizzle of garlic butter before reheating will help keep it moist and flavorful.

Coming up next: let’s talk about the most common mistakes people make with this recipe—and how you can avoid them every single time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Even though this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, there are a few easy-to-make mistakes that can affect your final result. Here’s how to sidestep the most common pitfalls and make sure your skewers turn out perfect every time.

1. Skipping the Skewer Soak

If you’re using wooden skewers and don’t soak them in water, they can burn or char inside the air fryer. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent this. If you forget and don’t have time to soak, opt for metal skewers instead.

2. Cutting Chicken Pieces Too Big or Uneven

Uniformity is key when it comes to even cooking. If your chicken pieces are too thick or uneven in size, you may end up with some undercooked bits while others dry out. Aim for 2-inch chunks and keep them roughly the same size.

3. Overcrowding the Air Fryer

An overfilled air fryer basket will prevent proper air circulation, which means your chicken may steam instead of crisping. Always cook in a single layer with a little space between each skewer. If necessary, cook in two batches.

4. Not Brushing Enough Butter

That garlic Parmesan butter isn’t just for show—it’s what gives the skewers their rich, golden finish and signature flavor. Don’t be shy about brushing it on generously. Skimping here means missing out on what makes this dish shine.

5. Cooking at Too Low a Temperature

The key to crispy, browned chicken is high heat. If you cook the skewers at a lower temperature, they may turn out pale and lack that roasted flavor. Stick to 400°F and flip halfway for the best results.

By avoiding these simple mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for success and enjoy juicy, flavorful skewers every time. Up next: my favorite tips and tricks to elevate this dish to restaurant-level perfection.

Pro Tips

Every great recipe has a few secrets that take it from good to absolutely outstanding, and these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are no exception. Here are my go-to pro tips that’ll help you make the most flavorful, juicy, and crisp skewers every single time.

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Maximum Juiciness

While chicken breast is lean and works fine if you’re trying to lighten things up, chicken thighs are hands-down the better option for this recipe. They stay juicy, tender, and flavorful, even after 15 minutes in the air fryer. Their natural fat helps them hold up better to the high heat and gives you that melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s so satisfying.

2. Don’t Skip the Soaking Step

Wooden skewers need to soak for a reason: it keeps them from burning. Even in an air fryer, the exposed ends of wooden skewers can get scorched if you skip this step. Soaking them for 30 minutes might feel like a hassle, but you can do it while you prep everything else. Alternatively, keep reusable metal skewers on hand—they’re super convenient and environmentally friendly.

3. Season Liberally

The garlic and herb seasoning is the foundation of flavor for this dish. Don’t be shy with it. Coat the chicken thoroughly so that every bite is seasoned. If you’re making your own seasoning blend, taste it before adding to make sure it’s balanced. The chicken should be flavorful even before the butter goes on.

4. Brush Butter Twice for Extra Flavor

Brushing the garlic butter on twice—once halfway through cooking and again at the end—adds an extra layer of richness and keeps the chicken ultra-moist. That final brush of butter melts into the crispy surface of the chicken and carries all the garlic and Parmesan flavor right into the meat.

5. Use Fresh Parmesan if You Can

Pre-grated Parmesan can work, but freshly grated Parmesan has a stronger, nuttier flavor and melts more evenly into the butter. The difference is noticeable, and since it’s only a small amount, it’s worth the extra minute to grate it fresh.

6. Clean the Air Fryer Basket Right After Cooking

Butter and cheese can stick and burn onto your air fryer basket if left to cool. Once you’re done cooking, give the basket a quick wipe-down while it’s still warm (but not hot). It’ll save you from scrubbing later and keeps your air fryer in tip-top shape.

7. Add Heat If You Like It Spicy

For a little kick, mix a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne into your garlic butter. The heat balances beautifully with the richness of the butter and the saltiness of the Parmesan. You can also add chili flakes to the seasoning blend for a subtle undercurrent of spice.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be able to tweak and master the recipe until it’s exactly how you like it. Let’s move on to some of the most common questions people ask about this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can. Chicken breast is leaner and will work fine if you prefer it or already have it on hand. However, it does cook a bit faster and can dry out more easily, so reduce the cooking time slightly and make sure not to overcook it.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can season and skewer the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 2–3 days. Just let it soften before brushing.

What if I don’t have garlic and herb seasoning?

No problem. You can make your own by mixing dried garlic, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you like heat), and kosher salt. Adjust to taste and use it just like a store-bought blend.

Do I need to flip the skewers while air frying?

Yes, flipping the skewers halfway through cooking ensures that all sides brown evenly and the chicken cooks consistently. This is especially important if your air fryer circulates heat less evenly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest piece should be 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into a piece—it should be white and juicy inside, with no pink remaining.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes! These skewers freeze very well. Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then remove it from the skewers and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter, and either skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free grated cheese substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Can I cook these in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the skewers at 425°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil them for the last 2 minutes to get a crispier finish. While you won’t get quite the same air-fried texture, the flavor is still fantastic.

How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly oil the basket or spray it with cooking spray before adding the skewers. This helps prevent sticking, especially with the melted butter and cheese.

What’s the best way to serve these to kids?

Kids love food on a stick! You can serve the skewers whole or remove the chicken and place it in a bowl with rice or noodles. Leave out the red pepper flakes if they’re sensitive to spice.

Let’s wrap things up with a final reflection and invitation to try this recipe yourself.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If there’s one recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, fast, family-friendly, and downright crave-worthy—it’s these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. They’re the kind of meal that feels special enough for guests, but simple enough to make on a weeknight. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for yourself, or just looking for something a little different than your usual chicken dinner, this recipe delivers.

The best part? It’s endlessly adaptable. You can pair it with rice, salad, vegetables, or wrap it in flatbread. You can add spice, switch up the herbs, or make it completely your own. With just a handful of ingredients and a trusty air fryer, you can bring restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen with very little effort.

So here’s your next step: gather your ingredients, soak your skewers, and get cooking. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And when you make it—because you absolutely should—I’d love to hear how it went! Did you make any fun variations? Did your kids gobble it up faster than you expected? Did you sneak a few extra bites of garlic butter straight from the bowl? (No judgment—we’ve all done it.)

Share your version on social media, tag your friends, and save the recipe for later. If you’re reading this and thinking, “Maybe I’ll try it next week,” consider this your nudge. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to experience just how amazing air fryer chicken skewers can be.

Enjoy every bite, and come back soon—I’ve got so many more easy, flavorful recipes coming your way!

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