Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are juicy, zesty, and incredibly easy to make. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the skewers a slightly crisp finish. With a tangy lemon flavor and bold black pepper seasoning, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summertime gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighsfresh lemon juicelemon zestolive oilgarlic clovesblack pepper (freshly ground preferred)saltpaprikaonion powderwooden or metal skewers

directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using wooden ones.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and place them in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.

Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix until evenly coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece.

Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).

Remove and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4–6 skewers (2–3 servings).
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30–120 minutes
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 50–130 minutes

Variations

Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between chicken pieces for a veggie-packed skewer.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving for a fresh finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or until warmed through.
Freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

Marinating enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, a quick 10-minute soak will still give decent results.

Can I cook these in the oven or on the grill?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes or grill over medium heat until cooked through.

Can I use metal skewers?

Absolutely—just be careful when flipping, as they’ll get hot in the air fryer.

What if I don’t have skewers?

You can air fry the marinated chicken pieces directly on parchment or in a basket without skewers.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Are these spicy?

No, but you can make them spicy by adding cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.

What sides go well with this?

Serve with rice, roasted veggies, couscous, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, healthy, and quick-to-make dish that fits any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping or entertaining, these zesty skewers deliver a punch of flavor with minimal effort. Try them once, and they’ll likely become a go-to favorite.

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