If you’re looking for a dish that’s a total showstopper (with almost no fuss), Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce will absolutely steal your heart—and your tastebuds! Tender chunks of juicy chicken are threaded onto skewers, air-fried to golden perfection, and then drenched in a buttery, garlicky parmesan sauce you’ll want to spoon over everything. It’s the perfect recipe for sharing at weeknight dinners, game nights, or a backyard gathering with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbelievably Flavorful: Every bite bursts with garlicky, cheesy, buttery goodness that will have you licking your fingers and craving more.
- Super Fast & Weeknight-Friendly: The air fryer does all the heavy lifting so you can have tender, golden chicken skewers on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce disappear fast at parties, family dinners, and potlucks—kids and grownups alike are obsessed!
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill, bake, or air-fry—pick the method that fits your kitchen and your mood.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce plays an essential role—from the juicy chicken to the golden garlic-parmesan drizzle. You only need a handful of kitchen staples, each providing either bold flavor, creaminess, or crave-worthy texture!
- Wooden Skewers: Soak these for 30 minutes to prevent burning if cooking in the oven or grill, and make handling a breeze.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 pounds): Go for even, 1-inch cubes for consistent cooking and juicy centers.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): This locks in moisture, ensuring succulent chicken with a creamy, lightly tangy background.
- Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon): A small amount helps the seasonings cling and gives the chicken irresistible browning.
- Garlic Powder (1 tablespoon): Adds punchy flavor right into the chicken marinade—no chopping required!
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): For a hint of warm, smoky color and depth.
- Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon): Ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon + ¼ teaspoon): Divided between the chicken marinade and the savory butter sauce for a mild peppery kick.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup/113g): The buttery base for your crave-worthy Garlic Parmesan Sauce.
- Fresh Garlic, Minced (1 tablespoon): For real garlic lovers—fresh, aromatic, and utterly irresistible.
- Fresh Parsley, Minced (1 tablespoon): Lends a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole dish.
- Parmesan Cheese, Finely Grated (2 tablespoons): Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding richness and that classic cheesy comfort.
Variations
The joy of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce is just how easy they are to customize. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, looking to amp up the heat, or going low-carb, you can easily switch ingredients and make them all your own.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter sauce or marinade for a subtle (or not-so-subtle!) heat.
- Low-Carb Swap: Use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a slightly tangy, ultra-protein-packed marinade.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based vegan butter and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a completely dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Lemon Twist: Stir a teaspoon of lemon zest into the sauce for a bright, zippy finish that’s perfect for summer grilling.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the mayonnaise, vegetable oil, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add your cubed chicken, tossing well until each piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy, seasoned marinade. Don’t skip this step—the mayo locks in juice and infuses every bite with savory flavor!
Step 2: Thread the Skewers
Using presoaked wooden skewers, thread 4–5 chicken cubes onto each one, making sure not to overcrowd. Leave a bit of space between pieces to ensure even cooking and plenty of golden edges. Set aside on a tray or plate until ready to cook.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cook the skewers in your air fryer at 400°F for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Aim for beautifully browned, slightly crisp edges, and juicy insides—check that the chicken is cooked to an internal temp of 165°F for perfect results. (Oven and grill instructions are in the notes!)
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce
While the chicken cooks, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add fresh minced garlic and a pinch of pepper, infusing the butter with fragrance and flavor. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan and parsley—this transforms the sauce into something velvety and irresistible!
Step 5: Drizzle, Serve, & Enjoy
Transfer the hot, golden skewers to a plate and drizzle (or brush) generously with your Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce. Serve immediately while the buttery sauce melts into every nook and cranny. These are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so grab one quickly before they’re gone!
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce
- Even Cubes, Even Cooking: Try to cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes for skewers that cook evenly and look extra appealing on the plate.
- Soak Those Skewers: Don’t forget to soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent any charring if using the oven or grill.
- Sauce at the Last Minute: Always brush or drizzle on the butter sauce right before serving so your chicken stays crisp and the sauce stays glossy and fresh.
- Maximal Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, add a dash of parmesan over the finished skewers just before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce
Garnishes
A final flurry of finely grated parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh minced parsley add color, aroma, and even more savory magic. For a pop of brightness, a quick squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving can’t be beat!
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce shine with simple, vibrant sides like a crisp Caesar salad, roasted veggies, or a buttery garlic bread. For heartier appetites, serve alongside fluffy rice pilaf, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a plate of tangy coleslaw.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skewers right on the platter for a rustic, family-style vibe, or arrange upright in a mason jar for a playful appetizer display. For parties, tuck each skewer into a mini tortilla or pita pocket with a drizzle of extra sauce and a knot of fresh greens—it’s the ultimate party bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing to keep it juicy and delicious!
Freezing
To freeze, cool the skewered chicken completely and wrap tightly (without sauce) in plastic and foil, or place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months—just remember to thaw overnight before reheating. Make the butter sauce fresh when serving for best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, you can pop the skewers in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until heated through. Gently warm the butter sauce separately (or make fresh), drizzle over the chicken, and enjoy—no flavor lost!
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great alternative. Just cut them into even pieces and cook until they reach 165°F inside.
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Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce ahead of time?
You can marinate and thread the chicken on skewers up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to cook. For best texture, cook the skewers fresh, and prepare the butter sauce just before serving.
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What’s the best way to prevent the skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading with chicken. This keeps them from scorching or catching fire during cooking—especially important if you’re grilling or baking!
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Is it possible to make these skewers gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, but always double-check your ingredients (particularly the parmesan and mayo) to be sure, as some brands may contain traces of gluten.
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce are pure comfort food magic—bold, buttery, and always a hit at the table. I hope you give them a try soon, and share them with everyone who loves easy, irresistible favorites. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers with Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 57 minutes
- Yield: 8 skewers 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fry, Oven, Grill
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a savory garlic parmesan sauce that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether cooked in an air fryer, oven, or on the grill, these skewers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Wooden Skewers:
- soaked in water for 30 minutes
Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, finely grated
Instructions
- Chicken: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken. Toss to evenly coat.
- Working one skewer at a time: Thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each. Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway, or until the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Sauce: To a small saucepan over medium heat, add butter, garlic, and pepper. Once the butter has melted, remove from heat. Stir in the parmesan and parsley. Transfer the cooked skewers to a plate. Drizzle or brush with the sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- Oven and Grilling Instructions included for alternative cooking methods.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 298
- Sugar: 0.4g
- Sodium: 425mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1.6g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 108mg
