Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are juicy, zesty, and incredibly easy to make. Marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and cracked black pepper, then cooked to perfection in the air fryer, these skewers are perfect for quick weeknight dinners, summer grilling alternatives, or healthy meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, citrusy flavor with a peppery kick
• Perfectly juicy and tender chicken every time
• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• No need to fire up the grill
• Lean and high-protein option
• Versatile: serve over rice, salad, or wraps
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Air fryer keeps the kitchen cool and cleanup simple
• Kid-friendly and crowd-approved
• Naturally gluten-free and low carb

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Lemon zest
• Garlic (minced)
• Cracked black pepper
• Salt
• Dried oregano (optional)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

this recipe

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Cut chicken into 1½-inch cubes and place in a mixing bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, black pepper, salt, and oregano (if using).
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
5. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
6. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers evenly.
7. Arrange skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
8. Air fry for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and golden on the edges.
9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes (+15 minutes marinating)
Cook time: 12–14 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions to the skewers
• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for extra aroma
• Serve with tzatziki, hummus, or garlic yogurt sauce
• Make it keto with extra olive oil and serve with cauliflower rice

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the cooked skewers (off the stick) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are juicier and work great for skewers—just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out in the air fryer?

Marinate the chicken and don’t overcook it. Flip halfway for even cooking.

Do I have to use skewers?

No, you can cook the marinated chicken pieces directly in the air fryer basket if preferred.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and skewer the chicken up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice and zest offer the best flavor.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be no longer pink inside.

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely—bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini work perfectly.

Are lemon pepper chicken skewers spicy?

Not spicy, but they have a bold, zesty flavor from the black pepper and lemon.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Tzatziki, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or ranch all pair well.

Can I double the recipe?

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

Conclusion

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal you can whip up any day of the week. With just a few fresh ingredients and your air fryer, you’ll have tender, zesty skewers that are perfect for serving with grains, salads, or dipping sauces. Say goodbye to boring chicken—this recipe packs a flavorful punch with very little effort.

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