Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for weeknight dinners and casual entertaining alike. These skewers pack bold flavor into every bite, blending the creamy tang of ranch with the savory richness of garlic and parmesan. Cooked to juicy perfection in the air fryer, they offer a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center. Whether served as an appetizer, over a bed of rice, or alongside roasted vegetables, this dish delivers maximum taste with minimal effort. With only 35 minutes from start to finish, these skewers are ideal for busy schedules and picky eaters craving something deliciously different.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Savory Flavor – The combination of ranch seasoning, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates an irresistible taste.
- Quick & Convenient – Ready in just 35 minutes using simple ingredients and an air fryer.
- Versatile – Serve them over rice, in wraps, or on their own as appetizers.
- Perfect Texture – Air frying delivers crispy edges and juicy centers.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Great for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breasts, cut into 3-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Chicken Seasoning:
- 1.5 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- 8–10 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, minced
- 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
How to Make Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
1. Soak and Prep:
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning during cooking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Combine all chicken seasonings in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces with olive oil and the seasoning mix until well coated.
3. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread chicken tightly onto skewers with no gaps. This helps them stay juicy and flavorful.
4. Make the Sauce:
Melt butter partially in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in garlic, Parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, parsley, ranch seasoning, dill, and onion powder. Mix until smooth. If the sauce begins to separate, stir in a tablespoon of softened butter to help it blend back together smoothly.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange 2–3 skewers in the air fryer basket at a time, ensuring they have space to cook evenly.
- Cook for 5 minutes, flip and baste with sauce.
- Cook another 2 minutes, flip again, baste, and cook for 5–6 more minutes.
- Total cook time: 12–14 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Final Touch:
After cooking, glaze the skewers with the reserved sauce and top with additional Parmesan for extra flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Cut the skewers down to size if they’re too long for your air fryer basket.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket – cook in batches.
- Clean your basting brush between uses to avoid cross-contamination.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
Substitutions And Variations
- Try shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
- Change the heat by adjusting hot sauce or omitting red pepper flakes.
- Swap herbs like cilantro or basil for a new flavor profile.
- Use metal skewers if preferred – just handle them with care as they get hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these in the oven?
Yes! Bake at 450°F for 14 minutes, flipping and basting halfway. Broil for 2 extra minutes for golden tops.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Thaw completely before marinating and cooking for even seasoning and texture.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Use the oven or a grill as alternatives. See the “Helpful Tips” section for detailed directions.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick. You can increase or reduce the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer or oven.
- Reheating: Air fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are more than just a quick meal—they’re a flavor explosion in every bite. With bold ranch spices, rich garlic butter, and crispy air fryer magic, they’re guaranteed to satisfy. Try them out tonight, and don’t forget to share your version in the comments! Craving more? Explore our other easy air fryer recipes for more delicious inspiration.
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Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers – Ready in 35 Minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 skewers 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are air-fried to perfection with bold ranch seasoning, savory garlic butter, and melted parmesan. Quick, juicy, and loaded with flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners or party appetizers. Try this easy 35-minute recipe today!
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs, or breasts, cut into 3-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
Chicken Seasoning:
1.5 tbsp dry ranch seasoning
1 tsp dried dill
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
8–10 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup grated parmesan
1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
2 tsp red pepper flakes
⅓ cup fresh parsley, minced
1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning
1 tsp dried dill
½ tsp onion powder
Instructions
1. Soak and Prep:
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning during cooking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Combine all chicken seasonings in a bowl. Toss the chicken pieces with olive oil and the seasoning mix until well coated.
3. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread chicken tightly onto skewers with no gaps. This helps them stay juicy and flavorful.
4. Make the Sauce:
Melt butter partially in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in garlic, Parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, parsley, ranch seasoning, dill, and onion powder. Mix until smooth. If the sauce begins to separate, stir in a tablespoon of softened butter to help it blend back together smoothly.
5. Air Fry the Skewers:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange 2–3 skewers in the air fryer basket at a time, ensuring they have space to cook evenly.
- Cook for 5 minutes, flip and baste with sauce.
- Cook another 2 minutes, flip again, baste, and cook for 5–6 more minutes.
- Total cook time: 12–14 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Final Touch:
After cooking, glaze the skewers with the reserved sauce and top with additional Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 2g