Description

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Marinated in a savory blend of seasoning salt, mayonnaise, parmesan, and garlic powder, then grilled or air-fried to perfection. Finished with a delicious garlic butter sauce infused with parsley, chili crunch, and lemon juice, they make a perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

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 cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Seasoning Sauce

5 tablespoons softened butter
4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons chili crunch (or chili crisp)
1 teaspoon lemon juice

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with seasoning salt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and grated parmesan. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 20 minutes, ideally 4 to 16 hours for best flavor.
Prepare the Compound Butter: In a separate bowl, mix softened butter with pressed garlic, chopped parsley, parmesan cheese, chili crunch, and lemon juice. Use a fork to blend into a smooth compound butter. Microwave briefly (about 5 seconds) to slightly soften if needed for easier basting.
Thread the Skewers: Skewer the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers evenly. Set aside while preheating your cooking appliance.
Preheat and Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF or prepare your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Place 4 to 7 skewers in the air fryer basket or grill, ensuring they are spaced to cook evenly without overcrowding. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip each skewer and cook an additional 3 minutes.
Baste the Chicken: Check the internal temperature of chicken; when it reaches 150ºF, baste one side with the compound butter and cook for 1 minute. Flip the skewers, baste the opposite side, and cook for another 30 to 40 seconds. Confirm doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reads 165ºF.
Serve: Remove the skewers from heat. Optionally top with extra parmesan or fresh parsley. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

For best results, marinate chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight to maximize flavor absorption.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning during cooking.
The chili crunch can be adjusted to taste or substituted with your favorite chili sauce for a milder flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165ºF, avoiding under- or overcooking.
Air frying is recommended for convenience and a crispy exterior, but grilling will add a smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 250 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg