Description

Air Fryer Lemon Butter Chicken Skewers bring together zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich butter for a quick, flavorful meal made entirely in the air fryer. Perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining, these skewers are tender, juicy, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade

1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)

2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp mayonnaise (or plain yogurt)

1 tbsp olive oil

2 garlic cloves, finely grated

1 ½ tsp dried oregano

¾ tsp paprika

¾ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

640g (1.4 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Lemon Butter Glaze

75g (5 tbsp) softened butter

1 tbsp finely diced fresh parsley

2 tsp lemon juice

¼ tsp paprika

¼ tsp black pepper

⅛ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken pieces and stir until fully coated. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature (or up to 1 hour in the fridge).
Skewer Assembly:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto 4 skewers, packing them closely to lock in moisture and ensure tender results.
First Air Fry:
Place skewers in the air fryer basket. Brush over any leftover marinade from the bowl. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 13 minutes.
Butter Basting:
After 13 minutes, flip the skewers and brush with one-quarter of the lemon butter. Cook for 1 minute, flip again, and brush with another quarter.
Final Glaze:
Remove from the air fryer and generously coat with the remaining lemon butter. For extra zing, squeeze over a bit more fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

Avoid over-marinating as lemon juice can make chicken rubbery.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature.

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Works with chicken breast, shrimp, or pork as variations.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (+30 minutes marinating)
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 396 kcal
Sugar: 0.37 g
Carbohydrates: 2.1 g
Protein: 32.6 g