Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are succulent pieces of chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, parmesan, and garlic powder, then grilled or air fried to perfection. Finished with a rich garlic butter sauce infused with parsley, chili crunch, and lemon juice, these skewers offer a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, making them an ideal appetizer or main course for gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 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 cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Seasoning Sauce (Compound Butter)
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Combine the chicken pieces with seasoning salt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, ideally 4 to 16 hours for best flavor.
- Prepare the Compound Butter: In a separate bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, chili crunch, and lemon juice. Mash together with a fork until combined into a compound butter. Microwave for 5 seconds to slightly loosen the mixture before using.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers. Set aside while preheating your air fryer or outdoor grill to 400ºF.
- Cook the Skewers: Place 4-7 skewers in the air fryer basket without overcrowding to allow even cooking. Cook at 400ºF for 6 minutes, then flip the skewers and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Baste the Chicken: Check the internal temperature of the chicken; once it reaches 150ºF, baste one side with the prepared compound butter and cook for 1 more minute. Flip the skewers, baste the other side, and cook for an additional 30-40 seconds until the chicken reaches 165ºF and is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use metal skewers for best heat conduction or soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor absorption; overnight marinating is recommended.
- Chili crunch can be substituted with chili flakes or hot sauce if unavailable.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer to allow even cooking and crispy edges.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or drying out.
- Serve with sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg