Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; ½ cup vegetable oil; ½ cup parmesan cheese; 1 large lemon (juice); 3 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; Spices: paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, crushed red pepper, ground black pepper; ¼ cup unsalted butter; Additional minced garlic; More honey and parmesan cheese for garnish

Recipe By:

Adrianaa

Posted:

June 10, 2025

Updated:

June 10, 2025

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Try these delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers: juicy marinated chicken, air-fried to perfection, and brushed with a honey garlic butter. These skewers are perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. Their sweet and savory flavor profile makes them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful dish ready in no time.
Air-Fryer Friendly: Enjoy crispy chicken without the extra oil, thanks to your air fryer.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and garlic creates a rich taste that elevates simple chicken to gourmet status.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course; serve them at parties or family dinners.
Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the sweetness of the honey paired with savory chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here are some essential tools you’ll need for making Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Wooden skewers
Small saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: Cooks the chicken evenly while giving it that desirable crispiness without deep frying.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken is well-coated in marinade.
Small saucepan: Used for melting butter and combining flavors to create your delicious honey garlic butter.

Ingredients

Try these delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers: juicy marinated chicken, air-fried to perfection, and brushed with a honey garlic butter.

For the Chicken Marinade

16 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ cup (109 g) vegetable oil
½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, finely grated
1 large lemon, juiced (about ¼ cup juice)
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Honey Garlic Butter

¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons honey
¼ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, finely grated

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To a large bowl, add chicken, oil, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, honey, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, red pepper, and black pepper. Stir to coat chicken pieces well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or up to overnight.

Step 2: Prepare Skewers

When the chicken is ready, working one skewer at a time, thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each.

Step 3: Air Fry the Skewers

Add the skewers to the basket of your air fryer in a single layer. You may need to cut or break the wooden skewers to fit inside the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to work in batches. Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Make Honey Garlic Butter

While the chicken is cooking, make the honey garlic butter. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Once melted, add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat and add honey, parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir until combined.

Step 5: Serve

Brush the cooked chicken skewers with the honey garlic butter before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether as a main dish for dinner or an appetizer at a gathering, these skewers add flavor to any meal.

With Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons pair perfectly with the savory skewers.
Greek Salad – A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta enhances the flavors of the honey garlic chicken.

In Wraps or Sandwiches

Wrap It Up – Place the skewers in a tortilla with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce for a tasty wrap.
Chicken Sandwich – Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a delightful sandwich.

As Appetizers

Party Platter – Arrange the skewers on a platter with dipping sauces like ranch or sriracha for easy snacking.
Skewer Bites – Serve individual skewers as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.

With Rice or Grains

Over Jasmine Rice – The sweet and savory chicken pairs wonderfully over fluffy jasmine rice.
Quinoa Bowl – For a healthier option, serve the skewers over quinoa mixed with vegetables.

How to Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Creating perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
Soak Skewers – Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the taste of your honey garlic butter.
Preheat Air Fryer – This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
Check Doneness Carefully – Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Brush Generously – Don’t skimp on the honey garlic butter; it adds flavor and moisture to the skewers.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their rich flavors.

Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the skewers.
Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender brings freshness to your plate.
Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the chicken.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes for a hearty side that soaks up any extra sauce.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter pairs well with the savory notes of the chicken skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and results.

Skipping the marination: Marinating chicken is essential for flavor. Allow at least one hour to soak up the marinade fully.
Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to 4-5 cubes per skewer for best results.
Neglecting to check doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. This prevents undercooking or overcooking.
Forgetting to soak wooden skewers: Dry skewers can burn when cooked. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use.
Not adjusting cooking times: Different air fryer models may require varied cooking times. Keep an eye on the chicken, especially if you’re using a smaller or larger air fryer.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Place cooled skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid, warming skewers for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute other meats for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?

Yes! You can use pork, shrimp, or tofu as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make these Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños into the marinade for an extra kick.

What should I serve with my Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and marinate the chicken hours before grilling. Just cook them right before serving for best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a great appetizer or main course and can be customized with different meats and spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors!