Elevate your weeknight dinner with these vibrant, juicy chicken skewers coated in a rich garlic butter and Parmesan glaze.
Perfectly cooked in the air fryer to lock in maximum moisture, this dish is versatile enough to serve as a stellar appetizer, over a bed of warm pasta, or tucked inside a fresh wrap.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Oil: 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Seasoning Spices:
- 1 tablespoon paprika powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust salt accordingly)
- Binders and Cheese:
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
For the Garlicky Parmesan Sauce:
- Butter: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Garlic Elements: 2 cloves garlic, minced + 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Aromatics and Herbs: 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- Cheese and Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon finely shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional Kick: Diced red chili pepper (for heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation and Skewer Soak
- If you are using wooden skewers, submerge them in hot water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning during the air-frying process.
2. Cube and Season the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken breasts, pat them completely dry with paper towels, and cut them into uniform bite-sized cubes.
- Place the chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl. Add the oil, mayonnaise, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, shredded Parmesan cheese, and salt.
- Thoroughly mix everything together until each piece of chicken is evenly coated. The mayonnaise acts as a secret weapon here, locking in moisture to keep the meat tender.
3. Assemble the Skewers
- Thread the seasoned chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between pieces to ensure even heat circulation. Do not overcrowd the skewers.
4. Air Fry to Perfection
- Preheat your air fryer if required by your model, and lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray.
- Place the skewers in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook at 390°F (199°C) for a total of 11 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through. Tip: Watch the timer closely; overcooking will dry out the chicken breasts.
5. Mix the Sauce and Coat
- While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, black pepper, shredded Parmesan, fresh parsley, salt, and diced red chili pepper in a small bowl. (If the butter solidifies from cold ingredients, microwave the mixture for 10 seconds to loosen it up).
- Once the chicken skewers finish cooking, remove them immediately from the air fryer and generously brush them with the garlicky Parmesan sauce.
Expert Cooking Tips
Prevent Drying Out
Chicken breasts lean towards dryness. The combination of mayonnaise in the marinade and strict adherence to the 11-minute air fry time guarantees succulent results.
Alternative Cooking Method
If you do not have an air fryer, you can bake these in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, or grill them over medium-high heat for 10 to 12 minutes, turning frequently.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these skewers with a crisp side salad, garlic butter pasta, fluffy rice pilaf, or wrap them in warm flatbread with fresh lettuce and ranch dressing.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 238 | — |
| Total Fat | 20g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 60mg | 20% |
| Sodium | 764mg | 33% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars | 0g | — |
| Protein | 12g | 23% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 71mg | 5% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 177mg | 4% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual caloric needs.
