Chicken Skewers in Air Fryer: 5 Easy Steps to Juicy Bliss

Name: Chicken Skewers in Air Fryer: 5 Easy Steps to Juicy Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken fillet, cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Skewers

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 19, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Let me tell you, there’s something absolutely magical about chicken skewers cooked in an air fryer! I remember the first time I tried it; I was skeptical, thinking, “Can it really be that simple?” But wow, was I in for a treat! The air fryer turned those simple chicken pieces into juicy, flavorful bites of heaven, all while cutting down on cooking time and mess. You just toss the cubed chicken in a quick marinade, thread them onto skewers, and let the air fryer do its thing. It’s like having a mini grill right on your countertop!

The convenience is just unbeatable. I often whip these up for a quick weeknight dinner or when friends drop by unexpectedly. You know, the kind of meal that looks fancy but takes minimal effort? And trust me, the aroma wafting through the kitchen while they cook is just the cherry on top! The chicken comes out with a perfect golden-brown crust, and I love serving them with a side of fresh veggies or a crisp salad. Honestly, if you haven’t tried making chicken skewers in your air fryer yet, you’re missing out on a deliciously easy meal that’s bound to impress!

Ingredients List

To whip up these delightful chicken skewers in the air fryer, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken fillet, cubed into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Skewers (if using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning!)

Feel free to get creative! You can also add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes between the chicken pieces for a colorful and tasty addition. These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress!

How to Prepare Chicken Skewers in Air Fryer

Making chicken skewers in the air fryer is a breeze, and I’m here to walk you through every step! It’s all about getting the timing right and making sure those flavors meld beautifully. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken skewers cook evenly and get that delicious golden-brown exterior. Preheating also helps lock in the moisture, giving you juicy chicken every time. Trust me, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

Now, let’s whip up that marinade! In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Give it a good stir until everything is well-blended. The aroma will be amazing as the spices mingle together. This marinade not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken tender while it cooks!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Next, it’s time to coat the chicken. Toss your cubed chicken fillet into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure every piece is coated evenly; I like to use my hands for this part, but a spatula works too. Just make sure you’re getting all that goodness on every side of the chicken. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak in those flavors – it makes a world of difference!

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Once your chicken is nicely marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and allows the hot air to circulate. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes in between the chicken pieces. They add color and flavor, and who doesn’t love a veggie boost?

Step 5: Air Fry the Skewers

Now for the exciting part – air frying! Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides get that beautiful golden color. Keep an eye on them, and check for doneness; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When they’re ready, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken skewers that are juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to chicken skewers in the air fryer, you’ll be pleased to know they’re not just tasty but also a healthy option! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per skewer:

Calories: 220
Protein: 30g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 500mg
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients used and can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and portions you choose. But regardless, you can feel good about enjoying these skewers, knowing they’re packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, chicken skewers in the air fryer are a game changer! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Ease of Preparation: You can whip these up in no time! Just marinate, skewer, and air fry – it’s that simple.
Quick Cooking Time: In just about 12 minutes, you’ll have delicious, juicy chicken skewers ready to enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy Ingredients: With lean chicken fillet and flavorful spices, these skewers are a wholesome meal option that won’t weigh you down.
Versatility: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. You can easily make them your own!

Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Tips for Success

To make sure your chicken skewers in the air fryer turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few pro tips that have worked wonders for me. First off, marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes is a game changer! This allows all those delicious flavors to really soak in. If you’ve got the time, let it marinate in the fridge for a couple of hours or even overnight for the best results.

When it comes to checking for doneness, don’t rely solely on cooking time. Always double-check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to hit 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe and juicy inside. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the chicken to be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste! If you love a bit of heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes. And don’t forget, letting the skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and flavor-packed. Trust me, these little tweaks can make all the difference!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your delicious chicken skewers in the air fryer, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing them with a fresh garden salad that adds a nice crunch and a burst of color to the plate. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette works wonders. If you want something heartier, try a side of quinoa or couscous. They soak up the flavors beautifully and make for a filling complement.

Don’t forget about grilled vegetables! Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus in the air fryer while the chicken skewers are cooking to create a delightful medley. And if you’re feeling a bit indulgent, serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce or a tangy yogurt dip for dipping. These options not only enhance your meal but also elevate the entire dining experience. Enjoy!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making chicken skewers in the air fryer? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my best answers.

Can I use frozen chicken for skewers?

While it’s best to start with fresh chicken for the most tender results, you can absolutely use frozen chicken if you thaw it first. Just make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before marinating. This helps the marinade stick better and ensures even cooking in the air fryer.

What other seasonings can I use for the chicken skewers?

The beauty of chicken skewers is their versatility! Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs. You might try adding cumin for a warm flavor, or even some Italian seasoning for an herby twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts based on your taste preference. You can create a new favorite every time!

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the skewers?

If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken helps prevent sticking and burning. If you’re using metal skewers, consider lightly oiling them to ensure easy removal after cooking. Either way, giving a little space between pieces helps too!

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini not only boosts the flavor but also makes for a colorful presentation. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as your chicken pieces for even cooking. You can toss them in a bit of marinade too for extra flavor!

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best way to check for doneness is using a meat thermometer. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer handy, look for the chicken to be firm and no longer pink in the center. Trust me, it’s worth the little extra effort to ensure perfectly cooked skewers!