Name: Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into 2” pieces; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper; ¼ tsp turmeric; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 stick (4 oz) butter; 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley; 1 tbsp honey; 6 cloves garlic, minced

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If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and downright addictive way to enjoy chicken, these Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are an absolute game-changer. Juicy pieces of marinated chicken thighs get perfectly charred in the air fryer, while a luscious garlic herb butter adds a rich, savory finish. This recipe combines ease and deliciousness, making it perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings when you want something that feels special without a ton of work.

Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, tender texture, and vibrant color that makes the dish so inviting.

1 lb chicken thighs: The juicy, tender base for skewers that soak up marinade beautifully.
½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, mellow garlicky background flavor without overpowering.
½ tsp onion powder: Brings a subtle depth that enhances the savory profile.
½ tsp paprika: Offers a mild smoky sweetness and that gorgeous reddish hue.
¼ tsp cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle kick to balance the richness.
¼ tsp turmeric: Adds golden color and a hint of earthiness.
½ tsp kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out the chicken’s natural flavors.
½ tsp black pepper: Lends sharp, peppery notes for complexity.
1 tbsp avocado oil: Great for marinating and helping spices cling without weighing the chicken down.
1 stick butter (for garlic herb butter): Creates a rich, silky finishing sauce.
1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley: Brightens flavors and adds a fresh herbal touch.
1 tbsp honey: Balances savory and heat with a touch of sweetness.
6 cloves minced garlic: Packs that fragrant, irresistible garlic punch into the butter sauce.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into roughly 2-inch pieces—these bite-sized chunks will cook evenly and stay juicy. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken with these spices and the avocado oil, making sure every piece is generously coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 20 minutes to soak up all these delicious flavors before cooking.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

While the chicken marinates, it’s time to make that mouthwatering garlic herb butter sauce. Gently melt the butter in a pot over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do, so be careful not to burn it! Once the garlic is aromatic, add the honey and freshly chopped parsley, stirring everything together. Turn off the heat and set the butter aside; this sauce will be your magic finishing touch.

Step 3: Skewer and Air Fry the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces tightly onto bamboo skewers, packing them so they cook evenly. Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and lay the skewers on top. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, then flip the skewers and air fry for another 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit is what you’re aiming for here.

Step 4: Finish with Garlic Herb Butter

Once cooked, brush the hot chicken skewers with your garlic herb butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley. This final layer adds that irresistible, buttery flavor that elevates the Air Fryer Chicken Skewers from everyday to unforgettable.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a lovely pop of green and a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully. A squeeze of lemon juice or lime zest over the top can also brighten the dish and add a lively contrast to the buttery glaze.

Side Dishes

These skewers pair perfectly with simple sides like fluffy rice, a crisp green salad, or grilled veggies. You can also serve them alongside warm pita bread and a tangy yogurt dip for a Mediterranean-inspired feast that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Air Fryer Chicken Skewers atop a bed of colorful quinoa or a vibrant couscous salad. Arranging the skewers on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like tzatziki, spicy harissa, or a honey mustard sauce turns dinner into a delightful social experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Air Fryer Chicken Skewers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Frozen chicken skewers maintain their flavor for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these skewers is in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes, just until warmed through. This keeps the chicken juicy and the edges crisp, avoiding that soggy microwave texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for these Air Fryer Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Chicken breast can work well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be mindful not to overcook it, as breast meat can dry out faster than thighs. You might want to reduce the cooking time slightly.

Do I need to soak the bamboo skewers before using them?

Yes, soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading your chicken helps prevent them from burning in the air fryer. It’s a simple trick that saves your skewers and keeps everything safe.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix the marinade and coat your chicken the day before. The flavors will deepen even more with extra marinating time, making your Air Fryer Chicken Skewers taste even better.

Is it necessary to line the air fryer basket with parchment paper?

While not absolutely required, lining the basket with parchment paper helps prevent sticking, makes cleanup easier, and keeps the chicken intact when flipping. Just make sure to use parchment designed for air fryers or perforated parchment paper for airflow.

What if I don’t have avocado oil—can I substitute it?

Yes, you can replace avocado oil with other neutral oils like grapeseed, canola, or light olive oil. These alternatives will still help the spices adhere and keep the chicken moist without overpowering the flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like the combination of juicy, seasoned chicken and that irresistible garlic herb butter to make these Air Fryer Chicken Skewers an instant favorite in your cooking rotation. They’re easy to make, quick to cook, and perfect for any occasion where you want something flavorful without fuss. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to for simple, satisfying meals that always impress!

Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Thomas
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

These Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, healthy, and quick-to-make dish perfect for any meal. Marinated with a blend of aromatic spices and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, the chicken is tender and juicy with a lovely char. Finished with a rich garlic herb butter, they offer a delightful combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces and place them in a small bowl to get ready for marinating.
Mix the Marinade: In a separate small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add this spice mix along with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the chicken pieces and mix thoroughly to coat. Let the chicken marinate for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Make Garlic Herb Butter: In a small pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add honey and freshly chopped parsley, stir to combine, and remove from heat.
Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces tightly onto bamboo skewers, ensuring even portions for uniform cooking.
Prepare Air Fryer: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the parchment paper in a single layer.
Cook the Chicken: Air fry the skewers at 400°F for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the skewers and continue to air fry at 400°F for an additional 6 to 8 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown.
Finish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer. Brush generously with the garlic herb butter, sprinkle extra parsley if desired, and serve immediately for best flavor and juiciness.

Notes

For safety, always check chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning in the air fryer.
Garlic herb butter can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; warm slightly before brushing on skewers.
Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for milder taste.
Try substituting chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner version, but expect slightly drier results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American