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Air fryer chicken skewers served on a wooden board with creamy garlic dipping sauce and cucumber slices

Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Skewers for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Molly
These crispy and juicy air fryer chicken skewers are the ultimate healthy dinner solution—packed with over 30g of protein per serving and under 5g of carbs. Whether you're meal prepping for the week, feeding a crowd, or just craving something savory and quick, these skewers deliver big flavor without the grill. They're naturally gluten-free, easy to customize with global seasonings, and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinate Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 260 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5″ cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers soaked if wooden

Instructions
 

  • Make the Marinade: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  • Add Chicken: Toss in the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and marinate 30 minutes (optional but recommended).
  • Skewer It: Thread chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
  • Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 400°F.
  • Cook: Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is browned and internal temp hits 165°F.
  • Rest: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Secret Tips for Perfect Skewers

1. Marinate longer for deeper flavor: Even 30 extra minutes can make a huge difference—overnight is best if you’ve got the time.
2. Pat the chicken dry before marinating: Removing excess moisture helps the marinade stick and ensures a better sear.
3. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Give the skewers space so the air circulates and crisps evenly on all sides.
4. Use chicken thighs for better texture: They stay juicier than breasts and develop a richer flavor when air-fried.
5. Rotate skewers once during cooking: A quick flip ensures even browning and helps the marinade caramelize beautifully.
6. Rest before serving: Let the skewers sit for 3–5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
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