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Jazz up your dinner spread with two knockout skewer options - crunchy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers and the mouthwatering bang bang chicken skewers. While both are winners, we're zeroing in today on juicy chicken chunks coated with garlic and Parmesan, cooked to crispy goodness in your air fryer. These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers turn basic ingredients into an addictive dish that brings Italian restaurant vibes straight to your home. They're perfect for gatherings or when you want to make weeknight meals extra special, giving you fancy food results without much work.
I stumbled upon these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers while hunting for a better way to enjoy chicken without deep frying. The air fryer gives you that awesome crunch on the outside while keeping everything inside moist and flavorful.
Key Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Breast: Chopped into even 1-inch chunks for consistent cooking
- Fresh Garlic: Finely chopped garlic builds the flavor foundation
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate it yourself for maximum taste and meltability
- Good Olive Oil: Creates that beautiful golden finish
- Dried Herbs: Basil and oregano add Italian flair
- Wooden Skewers: Soaked beforehand to avoid charring
- Fresh Parsley: Gives a pop of color and freshness
Step-By-Step Cooking Guide:
- 1. Mixing Your Flavor Base
- - Stir together chopped garlic, grated Parmesan, and herbs in a bowl
- Pour in olive oil while stirring until smooth
- Add plenty of salt and pepper to taste
- Rest for 5 minutes to blend flavors - 2. Getting Your Chicken Ready
- - Slice chicken into same-sized 1-inch pieces
- Mix thoroughly with the flavor mixture
- Put in fridge covered for 30 minutes
- Dunk wooden skewers in water during this time - 3. Building Your Skewers
- - Push marinated chicken onto dampened skewers
- Keep small gaps between pieces for better air circulation
- Set finished skewers aside on a plate
- Throw away any leftover marinade - 4. Cooking to Crispy Perfection
- - Heat air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
- Lay skewers flat without overlapping
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway
- Make sure chicken reaches 165°F inside
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From making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers many times, I've found that getting the timing right matters most. The marinade needs just enough time to flavor the chicken without making it too salty.
Heat Control
Getting your air fryer temperature just right makes all the difference. If it's too hot, your cheese will turn black; too cool and you'll miss out on that gorgeous golden crust. I always test one skewer first to see how my machine's running that day.
What To Serve With Them
These skewers go great with tons of sides. My favorites include buttery garlic pasta or a crisp Greek salad. When I'm having friends over, I lay them out on a big plate with lemon chunks and extra Parmesan sprinkled around.
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After making these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers countless times, I've realized success comes down to the little things. From cutting chicken properly to watching the cooking clock, every step matters for the best outcome.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Though they taste best right away, you can keep extra skewers in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes to bring back their crispiness.
What makes these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers so great is how flexible they are. They fit in just as well at a casual family meal as at a fancy dinner party, always delivering that perfect mix of crunchy outside and juicy inside that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prep them in advance?
- Absolutely! Marinate the chicken up to a day ahead, then just skewer and cook when ready.
- → Why do I need to soak skewers?
- Wet skewers won't scorch or splinter while cooking.
- → Can I bake these instead?
- Of course! Cook in the oven at 400°F for around 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.
- → What side dishes work well?
- They’re great with rice, a fresh salad, or a tasty dipping sauce.
- → How do I check if the chicken's ready?
- Look for a golden finish and an internal temp of 165°F.