1-First step: soak and prep Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep them from burning during cooking. While the skewers soak, cut the chicken into 3-inch pieces so the pieces cook evenly and fit tightly on the sticks.

2-Second step: season the chicken Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and coat them with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then toss until every piece is well coated. This seasoning layer gives the chicken a flavorful base before the sauce goes on.

3-Third step: thread the skewers Thread the chicken tightly onto the soaked skewers. Packing the pieces close together helps the chicken stay juicy and gives you that classic skewer look. You can fit several pieces on each skewer, but do not crowd them too loosely or they may dry out faster.

4-Fourth step: make the garlic parmesan sauce Melt the stick of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the red pepper flakes, hot sauce, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan. Keep the sauce moving so the cheese blends in smoothly.

5-Fifth step: cook the skewers in the air fryer The air fryer is the fastest method and works especially well for busy nights. Preheat it to 400°F. Cook 2 to 3 skewers at a time for 5 minutes, then flip and baste with sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes, flip and baste again, then cook another 5 to 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6-Sixth step: bake in the oven If you want a hands-off method, bake the skewers at 450°F for 14 minutes. Flip them halfway through and brush on more sauce while they bake. For a slightly more golden finish, you can broil them briefly at the end, but watch closely so the parmesan does not burn.

7-Seventh step: grill for extra flavor To grill the skewers, cook them over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes per side, basting as they cook. The grill adds a smoky taste and a little char that works beautifully with the garlic parmesan sauce. Keep an eye out for flare-ups, especially because of the butter and oil. Use a meat thermometer and cook until the chicken reaches 165°F inside. Once done, let the skewers rest for 2 to 3 minutes so the juices settle back into the meat.

8-Final step: finish and serve Once the chicken is cooked through, spoon extra sauce over the top and sprinkle on a little more parmesan if you want a stronger cheesy finish. Serve the skewers hot with rice, corn, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. The recipe serves 6 skewers, which makes it a practical meal for families or small groups.