Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and then add the minced garlic. Microwave the butter for about 30-40 seconds until the butter is partially melted. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly mixed in.
Next, add the red pepper flakes, hot sauce, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk everything together until the Parmesan is well incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Set aside 1/3 of the sauce for basting while the skewers cook. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful while it cooks.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Skewers
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once the air fryer is preheated, place 2-3 skewers in the air fryer basket at a time, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Cook the skewers for 5 minutes. After this time, flip the skewers over, and baste them with the reserved sauce. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to let the sauce infuse the chicken and help it brown.
Step 6: Finish Cooking the Skewers
After flipping and basting, flip the skewers once more, baste them again with the sauce, and cook for another 5-6 minutes. The skewers should be golden brown and cooked through by this time, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the type of air fryer you are using.
Step 7: Serve the Skewers
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove the skewers from the air fryer. Brush them with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish.
Serve the skewers hot, and enjoy the incredible flavor!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Make sure to leave some space between the chicken pieces when you thread them onto the skewers. This allows for even cooking and better air circulation in the air fryer.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like things spicy, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add more hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Use Fresh Parsley: While dried parsley can be used in a pinch, fresh parsley brings a vibrant flavor and a pop of color that makes the skewers look even more appealing.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Serving Suggestions: These chicken skewers can be served on their own as an appetizer, or paired with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe is So Amazing
1. Quick and Convenient
Using the air fryer reduces cooking time significantly, and the result is juicy, crispy chicken skewers in under 20 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight meal when you’re short on time.
2. Crispy and Tender
The air fryer creates a beautiful crispy texture on the outside of the chicken while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The garlic Parmesan sauce seeps into each piece of chicken, creating a rich and satisfying bite.
3. Flavor Explosion
With a perfect balance of savory garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and tangy Parmesan, these skewers pack a punch in terms of flavor. The garlic butter sauce is what really sets this dish apart and ensures every bite is bursting with rich, mouthwatering goodness.
4. Customizable
You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste. For example, you can try adding lemon zest for a citrusy kick, or switch up the seasoning by using oregano, thyme, or basil in place of the parsley for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Chicken Lovers
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken and mouthwatering garlic Parmesan flavor. The best part? They are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a dish that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a backyard barbecue, these skewers will be the star of the show every time. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious skewers! 🍽️🎉
