Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-prepare dish featuring juicy marinated chicken, air-fried to perfection, and brushed with a delectable honey garlic butter. These skewers can be served as an appetizer or a main course, making them a versatile addition to your meal repertoire. The recipe also includes instructions for oven and grilling methods, providing flexibility based on your cooking preferences.
Ingredients
Wooden Skewers
-
16 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Marinade
-
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
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
-
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with vegetable oil, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, crushed red pepper, and ground black pepper. Stir to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Skewers
After marinating, thread 4–5 pieces of chicken onto each soaked wooden skewer.
Cook the Chicken
-
Air Fryer Method: Place the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
-
Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the skewers on the prepared sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
-
Grilling Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Honey Garlic Butter
While the chicken is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and stir in the honey, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
Finish and Serve
Once the chicken skewers are cooked, brush them with the honey garlic butter. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information
-
Serving Size: 1 chicken skewer
-
Calories: 224 kcal
Why This Recipe Works
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers work so well because the marinade is a balanced blend of flavors that permeates the chicken. The vegetable oil ensures the chicken stays moist and tender, while the parmesan cheese adds a savory richness that complements the honey and garlic. The lemon juice not only provides a bit of acidity to cut through the richness but also helps tenderize the chicken. The paprika and garlic powder round out the flavor, adding a mild smokiness and a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly standout.
The honey garlic butter is the pièce de résistance. This luscious sauce brings the dish to the next level. The butter adds a creamy richness, the garlic offers an aromatic sharpness, and the honey gives a touch of sweetness that creates an irresistible contrast with the savory chicken. Grated parmesan and fresh parsley complete the topping, adding extra richness and a burst of color to the skewers.
Nutritional Value and Health Considerations
While Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are indulgent in flavor, they can also be a relatively healthy choice. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, making them ideal for building muscle, improving metabolism, and promoting overall health. The recipe uses modest amounts of oil and butter, keeping the fat content reasonable, especially when compared to deep-fried alternatives.
The honey used in the marinade and garlic butter is a natural sweetener, and although it does contribute to the sweetness of the dish, it’s still a more wholesome option compared to refined sugars. Plus, honey offers a number of potential health benefits, such as antimicrobial properties and antioxidants.
This dish can also be customized to meet specific dietary needs. For those who want to reduce calorie intake, you can adjust the amount of butter or cheese used in the recipe. Additionally, the skewers can be paired with a variety of healthy sides, like roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad, to further enhance the nutritional profile of the meal.
Versatility of Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
These skewers are a great base for many variations. You can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re looking to add a little more heat, you could increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade. If you’re trying to reduce carbs, you could pair these skewers with a cauliflower rice pilaf or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.
For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe already fits the bill. It’s naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid using breaded chicken or sauces containing gluten. You can also experiment with different marinades by adding herbs, citrus fruits, or even switching up the sweetener from honey to maple syrup for a different twist.
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers can also be adapted for different cultural takes. For example, by adding soy sauce and ginger to the marinade, you can give the dish an Asian flair, or by adding cumin and coriander, you could give it a more Mediterranean vibe. This flexibility makes it an ideal recipe for anyone looking to experiment with flavors or create an entirely unique version.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
These skewers are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner, hosting a barbecue, or serving them at a party, they are always a hit. The skewers are easy to serve and eat, making them an excellent choice for casual gatherings or as part of a buffet spread.
They also make a great meal prep option. Simply marinate the chicken ahead of time, thread it onto the skewers, and cook when you’re ready. These skewers store well in the refrigerator for a few days and can be reheated easily, making them ideal for busy families or anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Additionally, these skewers are family-friendly, making them a great option for kids and adults alike. Their mild flavor, combined with the sweetness of the honey and the savory garlic butter, appeals to a wide range of palates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers offer a combination of ease, flavor, and versatility that makes them a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their cooking game. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is simple enough to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve on any occasion. The marinade imparts deep, rich flavors to the chicken, while the honey garlic butter adds a final touch of indulgence that’s sure to have everyone coming back for more.
So whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or planning a dinner party, Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are the perfect solution. They’re satisfying, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.