Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of bold flavor and easy prep. With tender chicken cubes seasoned in garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, Cajun spice, Parmesan, and a touch of mayo, these savory skewers cook quickly in an air fryer or oven. Topped off with a luscious garlicky Parmesan sauce made with butter, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan, these skewers hit your taste buds from every angle—creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and just slightly spicy if you add red chili. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Precision measures and times ensure juicy chicken and consistent results every time. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers for so many reasons:
- Rich, Bold Taste: The savory combination of garlic, Cajun seasoning, and Parmesan creates an irresistible burst of flavor in every bite.
- Quick & Effortless: Ready in just 11 minutes using an air fryer or oven—perfect for delicious results with minimal work.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy as skewers or toss them in wraps, over rice pilaf, pasta, or orzo, or salad.
- Customizable: Play with heat, herbs, or cheese to suit your palate.
- Perfect Crowd-Pleaser: Elegant yet simple—seriously, who doesn’t love garlicky, cheesy chicken?
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp paprika powder
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (contains salt)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- ¼ tsp salt, if needed
For the Garlicky Parmesan Sauce
- 3–4 tbsp softened butter
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- Pinch of salt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp diced red chili
Step-by-Step: How to Make Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Prep Skewers (if using wooden): Soak in hot water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with oil, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Cajun seasoning, Parmesan, mayo, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until every piece is well coated.
- Assemble on Skewers: Thread seasoned chicken onto skewers with a little spacing between pieces for even cooking.
- Cook the Skewers:
- Air Fryer Method: Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray. Place skewers inside, air fry at 390 °F (200 °C) for 11 minutes. Flip halfway through.
- Oven Method: Preheat to 390 °F (200 °C). Arrange skewers on a tray and bake for 11 minutes, turning once mid-cook. Do not overcook—excess time dries out the chicken.
- Make the Sauce: While chicken cooks, combine butter, black pepper, garlic powder, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and optional chili in a small bowl. If it’s too solid, microwave for about 10 seconds to soften.
- Brush on Sauce: Immediately after cooking, brush the warm skewers liberally with the garlicky Parmesan sauce, coating all sides.
- Serve: Enjoy skewers hot, either straight from the skewer or plated. They’re fabulous alone or served over rice pilaf, pasta, or orzo, and make a delicious wrap filling.
Helpful Tips
- Even Cubes: Cut chicken into uniform pieces so all pieces cook evenly in 11 minutes.
- Oil Helps Cheese Stick: The oil not only aids in cooking but helps cling the Parmesan and spices.
- Don’t Peek Early: Avoid opening the air fryer/oven before 11 minutes to ensure proper cooking.
- Rest Time: Let skewers rest 2 minutes after cooking and before saucing—it keeps juices locked in.
- Sauce Warmth: Keep the sauce warm in a microwave-safe bowl over low heat so it’s easy to brush.
Substitutions And Variations
- Juicy Alternative: Swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a deeper flavor and extra tenderness.
- Cajun Swap: Try Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a milder, herb-focused variation.
- Vegan Version: Use marinated tofu cubes or cauliflower florets with vegan Parmesan and butter substitute.
- Extra Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, Sriracha to the sauce, or choose a spicy Cajun rub.
- Herb Boost: Mix fresh basil or cilantro into the sauce for a fresh twist.
- Cheese Swap: Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese work well if Parmesan isn’t available.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cooled skewers and sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Store cooked skewers (without the sauce) in a sealed freezer bag for up to two months.
- Reheating:
- Oven: 350 °F (175 °C) for 8–10 minutes (from fridge)
- Microwave: 30–45 seconds (from fridge)
Reheat sauce separately by microwaving for 15 seconds before brushing.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate values per skewer, with sauce applied)
- Calories: 180–220 kcal
- Protein: 24 g
- Fat: 10–14 g (mostly from Parmesan and butter)
- Carbohydrates: 2–3 g
- Sodium: 300–400 mg (depending on Cajun and cheese)
- Fiber: <1 g
Adjust values based on portion size and exact ingredients used. Servings vary if plated with rice or pasta.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Pair with steamed veggies, a green salad, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Rosé complements the Parmesan well.
- For a Crowd: Serve family-style with rice, pasta, or orzo and let guests help themselves.
- Wrap Option: Wrap skewers in tortillas with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers
How do I know if chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of a cube—internal temp should reach at least 165 °F (74 °C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest piece: juices should run clear and the meat should have no pink inside.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Marinate and assemble skewers a few hours before cooking; keep covered in the fridge. Make the sauce and store it in the fridge —just rewarm before brushing on. Everything reheats beautifully for a quick, stress-free meal.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? No worries—an oven at 390 °F (200 °C) delivers similar results. Use a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment, and be sure to turn skewers halfway through.
How spicy is this? The Cajun seasoning adds mild warmth, but it’s not overly spicy. Add diced red chili for heat; omit it if you prefer mild. You can also adjust the Cajun amount—or substitute with Italian seasoning for a softer flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken? It’s best to use thawed chicken for even seasoning and cook time. If using frozen, thaw completely before cutting, seasoning, and cooking.
Conclusion
Thank you so much for trying out my Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers—they’ve quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals for busy nights or weekend cookouts. I absolutely adore the way each juicy, garlicky, cheesy bite pops with flavor, and how fast and fuss-free these come together makes me smile. Whether you enjoy them straight off the skewers, over rice pilaf or pasta, or wrapped up for a casual family meal, I hope you find the same joy in making and sharing this dish. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for food lovers like you. Wishing you fun cooking and happy eating—so glad you’re part of this delicious, food-loving community!
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Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlicy Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, cheesy, and packed with bold Cajun and garlic flavors. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes using an air fryer or oven. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Try it today!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
2 large chicken breasts, cubed
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp paprika
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp mayonnaise
¼ tsp salt (optional)
For the Garlicy Parmesan Sauce
3–4 tbsp softened butter
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp finely shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped parsley
Pinch of salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: diced red chili
Instructions
- Prep Skewers (if using wooden): Soak in hot water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with oil, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Cajun seasoning, Parmesan, mayo, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until every piece is well coated.
- Assemble on Skewers: Thread seasoned chicken onto skewers with a little spacing between pieces for even cooking.
- Cook the Skewers:
- Air Fryer Method: Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray. Place skewers inside, air fry at 390 °F (200 °C) for 11 minutes. Flip halfway through.
- Oven Method: Preheat to 390 °F (200 °C). Arrange skewers on a tray and bake for 11 minutes, turning once mid-cook. Do not overcook—excess time dries out the chicken.
- Make the Sauce: While chicken cooks, combine butter, black pepper, garlic powder, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and optional chili in a small bowl. If it’s too solid, microwave for about 10 seconds to soften.
- Brush on Sauce: Immediately after cooking, brush the warm skewers liberally with the garlicky Parmesan sauce, coating all sides.
- Serve: Enjoy skewers hot, either straight from the skewer or plated. They’re fabulous alone or served over rice pilaf, pasta, or orzo, and make a delicious wrap filling.
Notes
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze cooked skewers (without sauce) for up to 2 months.
For extra heat, add chili flakes or more diced chili to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx.)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Protein: 23g