Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Bite into the taste of sunshine with these juicy, tender, bright, and savory Lemon Butter Air Fryer Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dish the entire family will love or a fun party-perfect recipe to entertain with, these quick-cooking chicken kabobs will become an instant favorite.

Bursting with the bright flavors of lemon juice and zest and accented with the bold kick of Cajun seasoning, these chicken skewers will instantly have you craving another bite. I use a tangy and bright butter sauce of just a few ingredients. Many, I'd bet, are already in your pantry.

These chicken skewers are a perfect option for dinner. Check out my Gluten Free Hamburger Helper, Lemon Garlic Pasta with Shrimp and my Grinder Salad Recipe for a few other summer options that pair perfectly!

If you are looking for a light dessert option check out my Blended Cottage Cheese Dip. It is great for summer days by the pool or nights around the campfire.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy Process - There is nothing complicated about the steps to making these air fryer chicken skewers. After getting coated in seasonings and skewered they are quickly cooked in the air fryer. This entire dish comes together in less than 30 minutes.
• Accessible Ingredients - Besides boneless and skinless chicken thighs the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples you most likely have. It’s easy to shop for and budget-friendly.
• Meal Prep - While these chicken skewers make a great meal you can also use them as part of your meal prep. Feel free to serve this juicy chicken atop a salad or as part of a bowl.
• Balance of Flavors - The tartness of the lemon is balanced by the addition of a little brown sugar. It’s tangy without being overpowering.

Ingredients

See the recipe card at the end of the post for a full list of ingredients and their exact amounts. 

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs - These are rich and meaty while being lean and packed with protein. They remain tender and juicy without drying out. 
• Salt
• Cajun Seasoning - This is used to season the chicken as well as added to the lemon butter sauce. Use your favorite blend. Most contain a little cayenne for heat, citrusy thyme, and savory components like onion and garlic powder. 
• Onion Powder - Adds delicate, mild onion flavor without overpowering the chicken or sauce. 
• Garlic Powder - Used to both season the chicken and add a bright, sharp savory element to the lemon butter sauce. It enhances the flavor of the garlic and garlic olive oil. 
• Paprika - Gives delicate sweetness, earthiness, and color to the chicken. 
• Black Pepper 
• Garlic - Gives a sharp, pungent element while pairing well with the bright lemon. 
• Lemon Zest - The zest brings brightness to the seasoning on the chicken. The oils in the zest complement the lemon juice. 
• Garlic Olive Oil - Costabile Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Garlic is 100% organic. It’s non-GMO and free of additives. (use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off) 
• Lemon Olive Oil - Costabile Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Lemon is 100% organic and free of additives. It enhances the natural lemon flavors of the lemon juice and zest. (use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off) 
• Butter - The base for the sauce, adds instant richness. 
• Brown Sugar - Balances the tart tang of the lemon juice and gives the sauce depth. 
• Lemon Juice - Adds sunny brightness that will have you licking your fingers. 

Flavor Variations

• Garlic Parm: I love garlic parmesan chicken skewers! These are always a huge hit when I have people over.
• Fresh Herbs: I love adding parsley to make this feel fresh coming out of the air fryer basket. Veggies like broccoli are always a great option for this meal.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you want some extra heat, this spice and some parmesan cheese is calling your name! Watch as chicken cooks to perfection.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Step 1. If you are using wood skewers make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes before you begin. Start by dicing your chicken into cubes. They should be about an inch in size.

Step 2. Next, start give your chicken a stir with your seasonings, olive oil and lemon zest together in a large bowl to make a marinade. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated and has a nice layer of spices.

Step 3. Start adding each piece of chicken to a skewer. I usually put 6-8 pieces on each skewer depending on the size. Make sure to leave room to grab the skewer to help with handling.

Step 4. Place the chicken skewers into the air fryer, careful not to over stuff it. You don’t want them piled up on each other.

Step 5. Allow the chicken skewers to air fry at 400 °F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be 165 °F when done. Be careful when touching metal skewers.

Step 6. While the chicken is cooking make your lemon butter sauce. Melt ⅓ of the butter and mix it with the lemon juice, brown sugar, and all of the dry seasonings. Add the remaining butter and use a fork to mash the mixture together. There should only be small lumps.

Step 7. Once your chicken is done use a pastry or silicone brush to baste the lemon butter onto the chicken. Serve with rice and enjoy!

Expert tips

• Soak First: Whenever using bamboo skewers, always take the time to soak them in water. You can even add a little kosher salt to your water. This will slightly season the meat from the inside while adding another layer of protection from getting scorched.
• Go Organic: When possible, buy organic citrus for zesting. Most citrus sold in the grocery store has a wax coating on the outside to protect it during travel and at the store while on display. While it is completely food safe to eat, organic citrus doesn’t have this coating.
• Don't Crowd the Fryer: Be careful not to overcrowd the tray of the air fryer. This will prevent the skewers from cooking evenly and will cause some of them to steak instead of brown.
• Sever with Salad: A fresh side salad with tomatoes is the perfect compliment to these air fryer tenders.

Air Fryer Chicken Skewers FAQ's

More Simple Recipes