Name: Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into 2” pieces; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 1 stick butter; 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley; 1 tbsp honey; 6 cloves minced garlic

If you’re craving something juicy, bold, and impossibly easy to make, look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Skewers. This is a weeknight wonder that delivers: fragrant spices, golden char, and a luscious brush of garlic herb butter all come together in less than an hour. Whether you’re delighting your family or wowing friends at a casual get-together, Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are the vibrant, flavor-packed answer to “What’s for dinner?”

Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Air Fryer Chicken Skewers is how a handful of simple ingredients can become something truly special. Each one brings its own magic—color, flavor, juiciness, or just the perfect punch of spice. Here’s everything you’ll need, with a tip for each!

Chicken thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for unbeatable tenderness and juiciness.
Garlic powder: Adds that savory backbone and a subtle, roasty depth that melds into the marinade.
Onion powder: Enhances the overall umami and helps round out the spice blend.
Paprika: Brings both a pop of red color and gentle smokiness to the chicken.
Cayenne pepper: Just a touch gives your skewers the right amount of heat—adjust to your own spice preference!
Turmeric: Not only for a lovely golden hue, but it also offers earthy, subtle warmth.
Kosher salt: Essential for unlocking and intensifying all the other flavors.
Black pepper: Freshly ground is best for a gentle kick and complexity.
Avocado oil: Helps the spices coat the chicken while adding richness without overpowering.
Butter: The star of the garlic herb butter—choose high-quality for rich flavor.
Fresh parsley: Tossed into the butter for a pop of fresh, herby brightness and color.
Honey: Brings a touch of balanced sweetness that makes every bite sing.
Garlic cloves: Use fresh and generously—it’s what makes the ending butter glaze so irresistible!

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into neat 2-inch pieces. Uniform size means every bite will be perfectly cooked, and you won’t wind up with some dry and some underdone. Pop them into a bowl and get ready for all that flavor to come!

Step 2: Mix the Marinade and Marinate

In a separate bowl, whisk together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and avocado oil. Pour this glorious spice mixture over the chicken and give it a thorough toss, making sure each piece gets its fair share. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes—this is where all that magic happens! If you’re not rushed, a longer soak only means bolder flavor.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter

While the chicken soaks up the marinade, melt your butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (try not to let it brown). Stir in honey and parsley, then switch off the heat. This garlicky, herby, slightly sweet butter will be brushed onto hot skewers for a finishing touch that feels restaurant-worthy.

Step 4: Skewer and Preheat

Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto bamboo skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, let them soak in water for 30 minutes first to prevent any burning. Pack the chicken somewhat snug, but leave a little room so the hot air can circulate. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to catch drips and make cleanup a breeze. Preheat your air fryer to 400F for maximum sizzle!

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Arrange your skewers in a single layer—no crowding! Slide them into the basket and air fry at 400F for 10 minutes, then flip and continue for another 6 to 8 minutes. You’re looking for golden brown edges and an internal temp of 165F. The air fryer works wonders here, locking in moisture while crisping up the outside, making Air Fryer Chicken Skewers irresistible.

Step 6: Brush and Serve

With your skewers sizzling hot, brush generously with the garlic herb butter. Sprinkle more fresh parsley for garnish, and serve immediately. The result is outrageously juicy chicken with a kiss of buttery, garlicky bliss on every bite!

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

Mound your chicken skewers on a platter, then finish with a generous handful of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling fancy, a quick scatter of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens things up even more. For a little extra heat, some thinly sliced red chili looks beautiful and spicy on top!

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with so many sides. Try fluffy couscous, a crisp cucumber-tomato salad, or some garlic naan to soak up those buttery juices. Roasted vegetables or a cool tzatziki dip add Mediterranean flair, while a simple green salad balances out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring the party to your table: serve your skewers upright in a glass or jar for a fun, vertical display. Stack them on a serving board with a few dipping sauces nestled between, or wrap them inside pita bread with veggies for a fresh, street-food style meal. However you share them, Air Fryer Chicken Skewers always feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, let your chicken skewers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Pop them in the refrigerator and they’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days—making them ideal for meal prepping or next-day lunchboxes.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Air Fryer Chicken Skewers, too! Just remove the chicken from the skewers and lay the pieces out on a tray to freeze individually. Once firm, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready for a quick meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop the refrigerated or thawed chicken pieces back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350F, or gently warm them in a skillet with a dab more butter. If you kept the skewers intact, just lay them out and heat until piping hot. Add a fresh brush of garlic herb butter right before serving to revive the flavors!

FAQs

How do I keep wooden skewers from burning in the air fryer?

If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading. This prevents burning and splintering, even at high air fryer temps for Air Fryer Chicken Skewers.

What other vegetables or proteins could I use?

You can absolutely switch things up! Try skewering bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini along with your chicken, or swap in shrimp or cubed pork for a tasty twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different proteins.

Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Definitely! Marinate the chicken the night before, then skewer and air fry when you’re ready. You can also fully cook them a day ahead—just reheat in the air fryer and brush with fresh garlic herb butter right before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F at the thickest point. The outside will be golden and crackly, and the juices should run clear. If in doubt, use a meat thermometer for perfect Air Fryer Chicken Skewers every time.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breast works great too. Just watch the cook time closely—breast can dry out faster, so take care not to overcook in the air fryer.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are my go-to recipe—simple ingredients, huge flavor, and a dinner everyone loves in way less time than you’d think. Try them yourself, and don’t be surprised if they become a new staple in your kitchen too!