Air fryer chicken skewers made with boneless chicken thighs and a bold Cajun spice blend are a quick, high-protein meal perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This easy recipe features juicy, tender chicken with a zesty lemon butter glaze, all cooked in under 20 minutes. Ideal for low-carb, gluten-free, and high-protein diets, these skewers pair well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables.

These air fryer chicken skewers are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned with a bold Cajun spice blend and finished with a zesty lemon butter glaze. Quick to prep and cooked in under 20 minutes, this protein-packed recipe is great for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Springer Mountain Farms recommended)
½ teaspoon salt
1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon minced garlic
¼ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon garlic olive oil (or any olive oil)
½ tablespoon lemon olive oil (or any olive oil)
8 skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
¾ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Prep the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Dice the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into evenly sized cubes and place in a mixing bowl.
Season the chicken: Add salt, Cajun seasoning, garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, lemon zest, and both olive oils. Toss until evenly coated.
Assemble skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the skewers.
Air fry: Arrange the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding. Cook at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Make the lemon butter sauce: While the chicken cooks, melt ⅓ of the butter. Mix it with lemon juice, brown sugar, and the remaining sauce seasonings. Add the rest of the butter and mash together with a fork until only small lumps remain.
Baste the chicken: Once the chicken skewers are done, brush them with the lemon butter sauce and serve hot.

Tips

Cut chicken pieces evenly to ensure even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if needed.
Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before basting for maximum flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein options: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu.
Spice level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to make it more or less spicy.
Sauce alternative: Try a yogurt-based garlic dip or a honey mustard glaze instead of lemon butter.

FAQs

Can I use metal skewers?
Yes, metal skewers are reusable and don’t need soaking.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I grill instead of air fry?
Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.
Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled corn.
Add to a wrap or pita with tzatziki or hummus for a handheld meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy with minimal cleanup
Packed with bold, smoky Cajun flavor
Juicy, tender chicken every time
Air fryer-friendly and healthier than frying
Perfect for meal prep, lunch, or dinner