Description
Delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, parmesan, and garlic powder, then air-fried to perfection and basted with a rich compound butter sauce infused with garlic, parsley, chili crisp, and lemon juice. Perfect for a quick and tasty main course that serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2-2 pounds chicken thighs or tenders, cut in 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lowry’s)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Seasoning Sauce (Compound Butter):
- 5 tablespoons softened butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Season: Add the chicken pieces to a bowl and season with seasoning salt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and grated parmesan. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, ideally 4 to 16 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare Butter Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, parmesan cheese, chili crisp, and lemon juice. Mash together with a fork to form a compound butter. Microwave for 5 seconds to slightly loosen the butter for easier basting.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers evenly. Set aside.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF. This helps ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Cook: Place 4-7 skewers in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip the skewers and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Baste: Check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be at least 150ºF. Baste the skewers with the compound butter and cook for 1 more minute. Then flip, baste the other side, and cook for 30-40 seconds more. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165ºF when fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for several hours to deepen the flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
- Adjust the amount of chili crisp to your preferred spice level.
- Please ensure the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature of 165ºF for safe consumption.
- This recipe works well on an outdoor grill if you prefer grilling over air frying.
- Serve with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
