Hey there, food lovers! If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a game-changer. Perfect for beginners, they pack a punch of flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ, these skewers will impress everyone. They’re juicy, savory, and coated in a mouthwatering garlic parmesan sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Stick with me as I guide you through this beginner-friendly recipe. You’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time. Let’s get started on making these amazing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers!
Table Of Contents

Savor the flavor of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewer
Why You’ll Love This Dish
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are not just tasty but also incredibly easy to whip up. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to party appetizers. Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!
- Simple Preparation: With basic ingredients and minimal steps, even beginners can master this recipe without stress.
- Flavor Explosion: The garlic and parmesan combo creates a rich, savory coating that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile Cooking: Make them in an air fryer, oven, or grill—choose whatever method suits your kitchen setup.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These skewers are a hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Let’s gather everything you need for these delicious skewers. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this recipe a breeze for beginners to tackle.
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or breast, cut into 3-inch pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for coating)
- 6-8 wooden skewers (soaked in water)
For the Marinade/Sauce:
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 8-10 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (for a mild kick)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Important Ingredient Notes:
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Grated Parmesan blends better in the sauce.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ready to cook? This step-by-step guide will walk you through making these flavorful skewers. It’s super easy, even if you’re new to the kitchen!
Step 1: Preparation
Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut chicken into 3-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Assemble Skewers
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the skewers, leaving no gaps to keep them juicy. Trim the skewers if needed to fit your air fryer or grill. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make Garlic Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic, Parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Stir well. Reserve 1/3 of the sauce for basting during cooking and the rest for after.
Step 4: Cook and Baste
Cook skewers in an air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip, baste with sauce, and cook for 2 more minutes. Baste again and cook for 5-6 minutes until internal temp hits 165°F. Brush with reserved sauce before serving.
Expert Tips
Want to take your skewers to the next level? Check out these handy tips to ensure success every time!
- Soaking Skewers: Don’t skip soaking wooden skewers; it prevents them from burning during cooking, especially on a grill or in an air fryer.
- Basting Timing: Baste midway and after cooking to lock in flavors without burning the sauce in high heat.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Easy And Quick
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Perfect for beginners, these skewers pack a punch of flavor with minimal effort. They’re juicy, savory, and coated in a mouthwatering garlic parmesan sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard BBQs.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or breast, cut into 3-inch pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for coating)
- 6–8 wooden skewers (soaked in water)
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 8–10 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (for a mild kick)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut chicken into 3-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Thread the seasoned chicken pieces tightly onto the skewers, leaving no gaps to keep them juicy. Trim the skewers if needed to fit your air fryer or grill. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic, Parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Stir well. Reserve 1/3 of the sauce for basting during cooking and the rest for after.
- Cook skewers in an air fryer at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip, baste with sauce, and cook for 2 more minutes. Baste again and cook for 5-6 minutes until internal temp hits 165°F. Brush with reserved sauce before serving.
Notes
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Grated Parmesan blends better in the sauce. Don’t skip soaking wooden skewers; it prevents them from burning during cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 skewers)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Variations & Alternatives
Feel like mixing things up? Here are some fun twists on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu or large mushrooms. Marinate and cook the same way for a meat-free treat.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra hot sauce or cayenne to the marinade if you love heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
- Herb Twist: Mix in different herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for a unique flavor profile.
What to Serve With
Pairing these skewers with the right sides makes for a complete meal. Here are some tasty options to try!
If you’re interested in more recipes, feel free to follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram!
- Garlic Rice: Serve over fluffy rice mixed with leftover garlic sauce for a cohesive, flavorful dish that soaks up the juices.
- Grilled Veggies: Add zucchini or bell peppers on the side or skewer them with chicken for a colorful, healthy meal.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the parmesan sauce perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes on a chicken skewer?
For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, you’ll typically use bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in a mix of garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and spices like salt, pepper, and herbs. You can also add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for color and variety.
This creates a balanced, flavorful dish that’s easy to make.
Which cut of chicken is best for skewers?
Chicken breast works best for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers as it’s lean and easy to cut into uniform cubes for even cooking. Chicken thighs are a juicier alternative due to higher fat content. Cut into 2-3 cm pieces to ensure they stay on the skewers and don’t dry out.
Marinate well before cooking.
What sauce goes with chicken skewers?
A creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is ideal for these skewers, enhancing their flavor. Make it with cream, grated Parmesan, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice.
Alternatively, try a yogurt sauce with herbs like dill or mint for freshness, or a honey-mustard dip for a sweet-spicy touch. Serve on the side for dipping.
How many calories are in chicken skewers?
The calorie count in these skewers varies by ingredients and portion size. On average, one skewer with 100g of chicken breast and a light marinade has about 150-200 calories. This can change with added veggies or richer sauces. Use a calorie calculator for precise numbers with homemade recipes.
How many calories are in 2 chicken skewers?
For two skewers, expect around 300-400 calories, based on 150-200 calories per skewer with 100g of chicken breast. The exact amount depends on the marinade, oil, and any added veggies. For a lighter option, cut back on oil and use lean meat. A calorie calculator can help with accuracy.
Conclusion
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a must-try for any home cook. With their juicy texture and bold flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Give this easy dish a shot and impress your family or guests! Drop a comment below with your thoughts or tag me on social media with your creations. Happy cooking!