Ingredients
– 2 lbs chicken tenders, thighs or breast – Provides juicy, lean protein base; tenders stay extra moist.
– 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps seasonings stick and keeps chicken tender during cooking.
– 1 stick butter – Melts into rich sauce for basting and ultimate flavor.
– 8-10 cloves garlic minced – Delivers bold, aromatic punch that’s the star.
– 1/2 cup parmesan grated – Creates cheesy crust; fresh grated melts best, but shelf-stable works.
– 1 tbsp hot sauce – Adds spicy kick without overpowering.
– 2 tsp red pepper flakes – Brings heat and smoky depth.
– 1/3 cup fresh parsley minced – Fresh herb brightness balances richness.
– 2 tsp paprika – Smoky color and mild sweetness.
– 1 tsp garlic powder – Boosts garlic flavor evenly.
– 1 tsp onion powder – Adds savory umami.
– 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all tastes.
– 1/2 tsp pepper – Sharp bite to round it out.
Instructions
1-First Step: Prep the chicken. Cut 2 lbs chicken into 3-inch pieces. Toss with 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Let it sit while you make sauce.
2-Second Step: Thread skewers. Pack chicken tightly onto soaked skewers for juiciness. Trim excess if needed. This keeps meat snug and flavorful.
3-Third Step: Make the sauce. Melt 1 stick butter with 8-10 minced garlic cloves. Stir in 2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tbsp hot sauce, 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley, and 1/2 cup grated parmesan. Whisk smooth. Separate 1/3 for basting raw chicken; reserve rest for cooked. Wash brush between uses to avoid cross-contamination.
4-Fourth Step: Air fryer method. Cook 2-3 skewers at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip, baste with raw sauce, cook 2 minutes. Flip, baste again, cook 5-6 minutes until 165°F internal. Total 12-14 minutes. Note: Time varies by air fryer.
5-Fifth Step: Oven method. Bake at 450°F for 14 minutes, flip and baste halfway. Broil 2 minutes. Watch closely!
6-Sixth Step: Grill method. Medium-high heat, 5-6 minutes per side, basting each time.
7-Final Step: Finish and serve. Baste with reserved sauce, sprinkle extra parmesan. Rest 2 minutes. Pairs great with rice or salad. Without skewers, cook pieces directly in basket.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🐔 Use chicken tenders or thighs for extra moist and juicy results.
💧 Always soak wooden skewers in water beforehand to avoid burning.
🧼 Prepare separate basting sauces and wash brush between uses to prevent cross-contamination.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Soaking Skewers: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low-Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg