Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a hassle-free yet delicious option? These air fryer chicken skewers are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or hosting guests. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, these skewers are juicy, flavorful, and a hit with everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home-cooked meal repertoire.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of weekend barbecue nights. We’d gather in the backyard, and everyone played a part in preparing the feast. My role often involved marinating the chicken, a task I loved because it allowed me to experiment with flavors. Years later, I adapted this childhood favorite for the air fryer, yielding all the savory results without the need to fire up the grill. It’s become a new family tradition that brings nostalgia with a modern twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Mess, No Fuss: The air fryer minimizes kitchen cleanup, making post-dinner relaxation a breeze.
• Quick Cooking Time: In less than 20 minutes, enjoy perfectly cooked skewers ready to impress.
• Healthy and Flavorful: The air fryer locks in the juices without excessive oil, providing a healthier alternative to traditional frying or grilling.
• Versatile and Customizable: Spice things up with varied marinades and sides to match any occasion.

Ingredients Notes

The key to these skewers is fresh, quality ingredients. Opt for organic chicken breast, which is more tender and juicy. Marinate the chicken with a mix of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a classic taste. For variety, feel free to add smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before use to prevent burning.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Prepare the marinade by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Step 2

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

Step 3

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating with chunks of bell peppers or cherry tomatoes if desired.

Step 4

Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5

Once cooked, remove the skewers carefully and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This ensures the juices redistribute and sets the flavors perfectly.

Storage Options

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply air fry them for a few minutes until warm. For longer storage, freeze the cooked skewers for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw the skewers in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer.

Variations & Substitutions

For a tropical twist, substitute lemon juice with pineapple juice, and add chunks of pineapple to the skewers. If you’re looking to reduce sodium, opt for a low-sodium soy sauce as part of your marinade. Vegetarians can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinated similarly, for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers are perfect for casual dinners, picnics, or festive gatherings. Pair them with a fresh Greek salad, fluffy couscous, or a creamy tzatziki dip. They also make for excellent meal prep; include them in a grain bowl with roasted veggies for a nutritious lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Yes, chicken thighs are delicious and offer slightly more flavor due to their higher fat content. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs tend to stay juicier longer.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? No worries! These skewers can be grilled or even baked in the oven. If baking, use a broiler for the last few minutes to achieve a crispy finish.

How do I prevent my wooden skewers from burning in the air fryer? It’s essential to soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading on the chicken. This helps to reduce the risk of burning when exposed to high temperatures.

No ratings yet

Spicy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

These Spicy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor, featuring a tantalizing blend of butter, garlic, and a hint of heat. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Rate Pin Rate Recipe Email Print Recipe

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken breast cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
• 2 tablespoons parsley chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

 

Preparation Steps

• In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, red pepper flakes, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
• Add cubed chicken to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
• Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between them for even cooking.
• Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
• Arrange skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 10 minutes, turning halfway, until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Garnish with additional parsley before serving.

Notes

For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit entirely. Serve skewers with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.