Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. The marinated chicken is tender and juicy, while the honey garlic butter adds a mouthwatering finish. With a simple preparation and cooking method, this dish stands out as an easy yet delicious option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Marinate the chicken in just 10 minutes and let the flavors develop while you relax.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these skewers as an appetizer, main course, or even at your next gathering—everyone will want the recipe!
• Air Fryer Convenience: Cooking in an air fryer ensures crispy outside while keeping the chicken moist inside with less oil.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, these skewers are a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make the preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden skewers
• Small skillet or saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks food quickly while providing a crispy texture without excessive oil.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients, ensuring all flavors meld together.
• Wooden skewers: They provide structure for grilling; soaking them prevents burning during cooking.

Ingredients

These Honey Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are marinated and air fried, then brushed with a delicious honey garlic butter. Perfect for a tasty appetizer or a main dish.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 1 large lemon (juiced (about ¼ cup juice))
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 5 garlic cloves (minced or grated, using a microplane)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Butter

• ¼ cup ½ stick unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced or grated, using a microplane)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, vegetable oil, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread 5-6 marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer.
2. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cut the skewers to fit.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes.
2. Flip halfway through cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Butter

1. While the chicken is cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey, parmesan cheese, and parsley.

Step 5: Serve

1. Brush the cooked chicken skewers with honey garlic butter.
2. Serve warm with additional chopped parsley on top as garnish.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers, perfect for any dining occasion!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to delight your guests or family. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner, these skewers can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion.

As an Appetizer

• Serve them as bite-sized portions at parties. Guests will love the sweet and savory flavor.
• Pair with dipping sauces like ranch or sweet chili for extra flavor.

Over a Bed of Rice

• Place the skewers over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. This adds a nice texture and absorbs the honey garlic sauce.
• Drizzle some extra honey garlic butter on top for added richness.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to make chicken tacos. Add fresh toppings like cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for a refreshing twist.
• A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors beautifully.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Serve the skewers alongside grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions.
• The char from the grill complements the seasoned chicken perfectly.

On Salads

• Slice the cooked chicken and add it to mixed greens for a hearty salad.
• Toss with a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare extra skewers for easy meal prep throughout the week. Store them in airtight containers.
• Reheat quickly in the air fryer or microwave for a convenient lunch or dinner option.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Creating perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate your dish, making it more aromatic and flavorful.
• Maintain Even Sizes: Cut chicken pieces into uniform sizes for even cooking throughout the skewers.
• Preheat Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that desirable crispiness on the outside.
• Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing cooked skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers can enhance your meal experience. Here are some perfect accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the sticky sweetness of the skewers perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances rich flavors with its tangy dressing.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing pairs well with the savory notes of chicken.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add an earthy component to your meal.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes a delightful summer side that works well with grilled meats.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing cuts through the richness of honey garlic butter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for less than one hour can lead to a lack of flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Placing too many pieces of chicken on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Use only 5-6 pieces per skewer to ensure proper air circulation.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping the garlic butter glaze: The honey garlic butter adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it makes the dish more enjoyable and aromatic.
• Using dry chicken: Choosing lean cuts without any fat can lead to dry skewers. Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for juicy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

• Freeze skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the skewers and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but they may dry out faster than thighs. Make sure not to overcook them.

How do I make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers spicy?

To add spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add some cayenne pepper to the marinade.

What should I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.

Final Thoughts

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. This recipe allows room for customization—feel free to experiment with different marinades or dipping sauces. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, these skewers are sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x

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Description

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors, making them an ideal choice for any gathering or quick weeknight meal. Marinated in a tantalizing blend of honey, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, each tender piece of chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy bites that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a festive spread, these skewers are versatile enough to impress at any occasion. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer ensures they come out crispy on the outside while remaining moist inside. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the satisfaction of serving a dish that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large lemon (juiced)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• Seasonings: soy sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, oregano, salt, black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with vegetable oil, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for enhanced flavor.
3. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto wooden skewers (5-6 pieces per skewer).
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and arrange skewers in the basket.
5. Air fry for 11-12 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through.
6. While cooking, melt butter in a skillet; add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in honey and Parmesan cheese.
7. Brush cooked skewers with honey garlic butter before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 120mg