Air Fryer Chicken Skewers (VIDEO)

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 8 tbsp salted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Bamboo skewers, soaked

Healthy meals don’t have to be boring. If you’re in search of a dish that brings excitement, flavor, and a hint of adventure to your dinner table, look no further than these delicious Air Fryer Chicken Skewers. With their juicy chicken pieces coated in aromatic spices and drizzled with savory garlic butter, they are sure to impress both family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively weekend gathering, this recipe will elevate any meal experience.

Why Make This Recipe

It’s quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights.
The air fryer ensures that the chicken is tender while keeping it wonderfully crispy.

These skewers are not just a meal; they’re an experience, inviting you to savor every bite. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and create something truly delightful.

Easy Method for Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Step one: Prepare the chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into approximately 2-inch pieces. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy to skewer. Once cut, place the chicken in a small bowl to prepare for marinating. The flavorful spices are essential, so before we dive into that, let’s take a moment to appreciate what they bring to the table.

Step two: Create the marinade

In a separate bowl, combine the following spices: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper. This blend creates a well-rounded flavor profile, balancing savory and slightly spicy notes. Once your spices are mixed well, pour them over the chicken pieces. Drizzle in a tablespoon of avocado oil, which will help the spices adhere to the chicken and add richness to the dish.

Step three: Marinate

Mix everything thoroughly until all the chicken pieces are coated in the spice blend. This is the moment where flavor begins to build, and the anticipation of that first bite grows. Allow the chicken to marinate for 20 minutes. This wait is crucial; it gives the spices time to penetrate the meat, transforming each piece into a succulent morsel.

Step four: Prepare the garlic butter

While your chicken is soaking up those flavors, it’s time to create the garlic herb butter that will take these skewers to the next level. In a pot over medium heat, add the 8 tablespoons of salted butter. As it begins to melt, toss in 6 cloves of minced garlic. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant—this is when your kitchen starts to smell amazing.

Once the garlic is aromatic, stir in 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley. This mix of garlic, honey, and butter will create a luscious topping that’ll elevate your chicken skewers and add a beautiful gloss.

Step five: Skewer the chicken

Now comes the fun part—assembling the skewers! Take pre-soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, packing them tightly. Tight packing helps ensure that the meat remains juicy and doesn’t dry out during cooking.

Step six: Air fry

Prepare your air fryer basket by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once lined, lay the chicken skewers flat in the basket. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, then place the basket inside and air fry for about 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, flip the skewers over and continue air frying for an additional 6-8 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, they should be perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor.

Step seven: Finish and serve

As soon as the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the air fryer. Brush the garlic herb butter generously over the skewers, making sure each piece gets a delectable coating. Finally, sprinkle some more parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh finish and serve immediately.

Best Way to Store Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

To keep your delicious chicken skewers fresh and tasty, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: Keep in a zip-top freezer bag or an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Thaw frozen skewers overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F or until heated through.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

These chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some of the best ways to present them:

Over a Bed of Greens: Serve the skewers on a bed of fresh greens like spinach or arugula, drizzled with a vinaigrette for a light and healthy meal.
With Dipping Sauces: Accompany with a variety of dipping sauces such as tzatziki, sweet chili sauce, or a spicy aioli. This not only enhances flavors but also makes for a fun, shareable meal.
As Tacos: For a fusion twist, shred the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas topped with fresh veggies, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
On a Skewers Plate: Make it visually appealing by arranging the skewers on a platter with colorful veggies for a lovely presentation at a party.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference—add more cayenne for a kick.
For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer, even overnight if possible.

Key Tip

If you’re concerned about chicken drying out, try marinating for longer or keeping an eye on the cooking time. The air fryer is efficient, and sometimes less is more when it comes to the cooking duration.

Variations or Substitutions

To keep things fresh in your kitchen, consider the following variations:

Using Different Proteins: If you’re in the mood for a switch, try using shrimp or tofu. Each will absorb those wonderful flavors and present a delightful alternative.
Vegetable Skewers: For a vegetarian option, load the skewers with bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms. They can be marinated with the same spice blend, making for a great side or main dish.

FAQs about Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and just skewer and cook it the following day. Meal prep has never been easier!

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Yes, chicken thighs are perfect for skewering! They’re juicier compared to breasts and hold up beautifully to the air frying method.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

A: To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chilies to the marinade. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce.

Nutritional Info

If you’re mindful of dietary needs, here’s a quick nutritional overview:

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving (based on marinated chicken).
Protein: High due to chicken thighs, offering around 25g of protein.
Fats: Healthy fats primarily from avocado oil and butter.
Carbohydrates: Minimal, mainly from the spices and honey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Ensure there is enough space between the skewers for the hot air to circulate. This is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
Skipping the Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken time to marinate is essential for flavor. Don’t rush this step.
Ignoring Internal Temperature: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. Cooking it to 165°F ensures it’s safe to eat while keeping it juicy.

By embracing the delightful simplicity of these Air Fryer Chicken Skewers, you’re not only crafting a delicious meal but also enjoying the process. Gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and let the flavors unfold in your home. You’ll find that cooking can be as rewarding as eating, creating tender moments around the dinner table filled with joy and good food. Bon appétit!