Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Get ready for a quick, crowd-pleasing favorite: air fryer Parmesan chicken skewers! These skewers are delightfully crisp outside with tender, juicy chicken inside, making them the perfect snack or appetizer. Ready in just minutes, they’re packed with flavor from garlic, paprika, and a generous Parmesan coating.
With minimal prep, these skewers transform simple ingredients into a crispy, golden masterpiece. They’re ideal for dipping into ranch or your favorite sauce, adding a rich, savory layer to each bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or whipping up a family meal, these skewers are a winning choice.
Using an air fryer keeps the cooking process efficient, cutting down on oil and mess while delivering a satisfying crunch. Perfect for busy nights or impromptu gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Skewers Ingredients
Chicken Breast Tenders: The star of this recipe, providing tender, juicy bites that cook to perfection in the air fryer.
Olive Oil: A touch of richness that helps the seasonings adhere, adding depth and a hint of Mediterranean warmth.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: Bold spices that layer in savory, smoky notes, enhancing each skewer’s flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese: The essential finishing touch for a crisp, golden coating with a salty, nutty kick that elevates every bite.
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
- Coating the Chicken Evenly: For the crispiest texture, thoroughly coat each piece of chicken in olive oil and seasonings before adding the Parmesan. Toss the tenders with your hands or a spoon to ensure an even layer of seasoning. The Parmesan should cling nicely, forming a golden crust as it cooks. If you want an extra crunch, add a touch of panko breadcrumbs to the Parmesan mixture, ensuring the chicken’s exterior becomes perfectly crisp in the air fryer.
- Prevent Overcrowding in the Air Fryer: Arrange skewers in a single layer without overlapping, allowing hot air to circulate around each piece. This prevents uneven cooking and helps achieve that crispy finish. If making a large batch, consider cooking in two rounds to maintain the texture. For the best results, don’t shake the basket mid-cook—use tongs to carefully flip the skewers for even browning.
- Cooking Time and Temperature: Air fryers vary slightly in temperature control, so keep an eye on your chicken skewers to avoid overcooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees juicy, tender chicken without any guesswork. If needed, adjust the final cooking time by a minute or two based on your specific air fryer model for perfectly cooked skewers.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Fresh Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: The crisp texture and rich flavors of these Parmesan chicken skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh, green salad. Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, then drizzle with a light balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing complements the savory Parmesan and spices in the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the skewers alongside a mix of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and baby potatoes. The vegetables add a colorful, nutrient-rich side dish, while the roasted flavors align perfectly with the crispy, Parmesan-coated chicken. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, completes the plate.
- Garlic-Parmesan Pasta: Pair the skewers with a side of garlic-Parmesan pasta for a more filling meal. Toss al dente pasta in a light garlic butter sauce with a touch of grated Parmesan. The pasta enhances the flavors of the skewers and provides a warm, comforting contrast to the air-fried chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast tenders?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but keep in mind they may take a little longer to cook. Make sure to slice the thighs into similar-sized strips to ensure even cooking. Use a thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano or Asiago are excellent choices with similar flavors. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy, savory flavor for a dairy-free option, although it won’t crisp up as much.
3. Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in olive oil and seasonings, then cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. However, add the Parmesan only before cooking to maintain its crispiness.
4. What sauces go well with these chicken skewers?
Classic ranch is a favorite, but garlic aioli, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo also make excellent dips. For a lighter option, try a simple yogurt-based tzatziki for a cool, creamy contrast.
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/4 pound chicken breast tenders
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) as per the manufacturer’s instructions, allowing it to preheat thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, place the chicken breast tenders. Drizzle with olive oil, then add garlic powder, paprika, salt, parsley flakes, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure each tender is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss until it thoroughly adheres to the chicken.
- Thread each chicken tender onto a skewer, arranging the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. The skewers may be close together, but they should not overlap for optimal cooking.
- Air fry for 7 minutes. Then, turn the skewers over and continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, and juices run clear, approximately 3 additional minutes. For accuracy, use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
