Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple yet packs a punch in flavor? These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with juicy marinated chicken and a rich honey garlic butter glaze. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or need something fun for a gathering, this recipe is for you.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

The magic of this recipe lies in its versatility and flavor. The marinade infuses the chicken with a bold mix of parmesan, smoked paprika, and lemon, while the honey garlic butter adds a delectable finishing touch. Plus, using an air fryer ensures perfectly tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort.

Who Is This Recipe Perfect For?

This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks who want an easy, flavorful meal. It’s also great for anyone who loves finger foods, grilling, or simply enjoys the sweet and tangy flavor profile. Plus, these skewers are kid-friendly, making them a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make these Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers.

Key Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

• Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender during cooking, making them ideal for skewers.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with honey.
• Honey: Provides a touch of sweetness that caramelizes nicely in both the marinade and butter glaze.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish its signature savory punch.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (or a grill, if you prefer)
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes (this prevents them from burning)
• Mixing bowls for the marinade
• Small skillet or saucepan for making the honey garlic butter
• Tongs for flipping the skewers
• Meat thermometer to check doneness (the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients—vegetable oil, parmesan, lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Add the cubed chicken thighs and stir until the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors infuse. For best results, marinate overnight.

2. Assemble the Skewers

After marinating, thread 5-6 pieces of chicken onto each skewer. Make sure the pieces are evenly spaced so they cook uniformly. If using an air fryer, trim the skewers to fit in the basket.

3. Cook the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Cook for 11-12 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If grilling, cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.

4. Make the Honey Garlic Butter

While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the honey, parmesan, and parsley. This sauce will give the skewers a beautiful finish.

5. Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, brush the skewers generously with the honey garlic butter. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, for a complete meal.

How to Make the Perfect Marinade

To get the best flavor, allow your chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour. The longer, the better—the acid from the lemon will tenderize the meat, while the honey and garlic add depth of flavor. Don’t skip the parmesan in the marinade; it adds a layer of umami that makes these skewers truly irresistible.

Air Frying vs. Grilling

While the air fryer is an easy and convenient way to cook these skewers, grilling adds a smoky flavor and crispier edges. If you’re grilling, ensure that your heat is medium to medium-high to avoid burning the honey in the marinade. Either method yields excellent results, so it’s all about personal preference!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-marinating: More than 24 hours can make the chicken mushy due to the acidic lemon juice.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Ensure the skewers have enough space between them so they cook evenly.
• Undercooking: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

These skewers look fantastic served on a large platter with a drizzle of extra honey garlic butter. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or some lemon wedges for added color and freshness. Pair with sides like a crisp cucumber salad or buttery mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the skewers back into the air fryer or microwave until warmed through. Brush with leftover honey garlic butter before serving to restore that fresh-off-the-grill flavor.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Protein swaps: Try using shrimp or tofu for a fun twist.
• Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper if you like a bit more heat.
• Herb substitutions: Use fresh thyme or cilantro in place of parsley for a new flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari as a substitute.

FAQ: Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred as they stay juicier. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook.

Can I grill these instead of air frying? Absolutely! Grilling adds a great smoky flavor. Just make sure to cook over medium heat.

How long should I marinate the chicken? For the best results, marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

Conclusion

These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are an easy and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with a sweet and savory twist. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out and let us know how it goes!

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