Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe

These Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering! Imagine tender, juicy chicken skewers seasoned with a vibrant blend of Old Bay and lemon pepper, air-fried to perfection, and then coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This recipe is simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a versatile and convenient option for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of Old Bay seasoning, lemon pepper, and a creamy sauce creates a delicious and aromatic flavor profile that infuses the chicken with incredible taste.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. The air fryer makes cooking the chicken skewers a breeze, and the sauce is quick and easy to make.
• Versatile: You can grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken skewers instead of using an air fryer, making it a versatile option for any cooking method. You can also customize the toppings and sides to your liking.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Chicken is a lean source of protein, and the addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice makes this dish a healthy and satisfying choice.

this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

• Boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even marinating.
• Olive oil: Used in the marinade and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
• Old Bay seasoning: A classic blend of spices that adds a unique and savory flavor to the chicken.
• Lemon pepper seasoning: Adds a zesty and peppery flavor to the chicken.

For the Chicken Skewer Sauce/Glaze

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Mayonnaise (or sour cream): Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the sauce.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped and adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Old Bay seasoning: Adds another layer of Old Bay flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic paste (or minced garlic): Adds a fragrant and savory kick.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels and cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for the best flavor. While the chicken is marinating, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.

Step 2: Thread and Air Fry the Chicken Skewers

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers. Arrange the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch or overlap. If desired, lightly spray the skewers with cooking spray. Cook for 18 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, flipping halfway through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, prepare the sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the mayonnaise (or sour cream), lemon juice, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic paste until well combined.

Step 4: Serve

Place the cooked chicken skewers on a platter or plate and brush them with the sauce while still warm. Serve the Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers immediately as is, or with your favorite sides, such as a salad or rice.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality chicken tenderloins.
• Marinate for flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade will add flavor.
• Soak the skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Be mindful of not overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking of the skewers.
• Oven method: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes until slightly crisp.

How to Serve

These Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers are delicious with a variety of sides:

• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Rice: Serve the skewers with a side of fluffy white or brown rice.
• Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions, would be a great accompaniment.
• Potatoes: Serve with a side of roasted or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken skewers and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can! Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces before marinating and skewering.

2. Can I make this recipe without the sauce?

Yes, you can! The sauce adds a delicious creamy flavor, but the chicken skewers are still delicious with just the Old Bay and lemon pepper seasoning.

3. Can I add other seasonings to the chicken or sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

4. Can I grill the chicken skewers instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can! If grilling, grill the skewers over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

This Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, versatile cooking methods, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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