If you’re looking for an irresistibly flavorful way to jazz up weeknight dinners, this Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe is about to become your new go-to! Juicy chicken cubes marinated in zesty Old Bay seasoning, kissed with lemon and garlic, and crisped to golden perfection in the air fryer—this dish blends classic coastal flavors with unbeatable air fryer convenience. Whether you’re channeling summer BBQ vibes or just need something quick and tasty, these skewers deliver every single time and prove that an easy recipe can still taste truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with a handful of simple ingredients, each one earning its spot for the big, bold flavors and the snappy texture they bring. Here’s why you’ll love every element in this Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Opting for boneless, skinless pieces makes prep a breeze and ensures juicy, tender bites every time.
- Old Bay seasoning: The star of the show! This classic blend brings a tidal wave of savory, spicy flavor that defines each skewer.
- Olive oil: A drizzle helps the marinade cling to the chicken, while also crisping and browning during air frying.
- Lemon juice: Adds a pop of brightness and subtle tang that wakes up every bite.
- Garlic powder: Rounds out the marinade with warm, aromatic depth—no chopping necessary!
- Black pepper: Punches up the flavor with just the right amount of gentle heat.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading your marinated chicken, making everything easy to handle and serve.
- Lemon wedges and chopped parsley (optional): Perfect finishing touch for a burst of color and freshness if you’re feeling a little fancy.
How to Make Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, fill a baking dish with water and let them soak for at least 20 minutes. This simple step keeps your skewers from scorching under the heat, so you get tasty chicken without any burnt bits.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss your chicken cubes with the olive oil, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Make sure every piece is glistening and coated head-to-toe in the vibrant marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour if you really want to let those flavors sink in deep.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken
Take your nicely marinated chicken and begin threading it onto your skewers. Don’t overcrowd each skewer—leave just a little space between every piece to make sure the heat can circulate and every bite gets beautifully golden.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. A hot air fryer means the chicken starts crisping instantly, locking in juiciness while creating those irresistible caramelized edges.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Arrange the skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket, giving them a little breathing room for the best results. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken gets deeply golden and registers 165°F (74°C) inside. The air fryer works its magic, making the exterior crisp without ever drying out the chicken.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once the skewers are done, resist the urge to dig in immediately. Let them rest for a couple of minutes so the juices redistribute for the most tender, flavorful chicken. Spritz with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you want to elevate your Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe with a pop of freshness and color.
How to Serve Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing these skewers takes them from delicious to company-worthy. A handful of chopped parsley brings vibrant green color, while lemon wedges add a lively citrusy zing. If you want even more flavor, a light drizzle of extra olive oil or a dusting of Old Bay on top gives each skewer an eye-catching finish.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe pairs like a dream with so many sides! Try them with fluffy rice, a fresh Mediterranean salad, or a platter of grilled veggies for a balanced meal. Even simple roasted potatoes or an herby pasta salad can make your plate shine alongside the zesty chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your skewers straight from the air fryer for casual family dinners or thread them onto a big platter with colorful roasted vegetables for a party spread. For a playful twist, pull the chicken off the skewers and tuck into pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and a swipe of yogurt sauce—quick, fresh handheld wraps that impress any crowd!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any skewers left (that’s a big if!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—the flavor only gets better as the spices settle in!
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then slip into a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture before reheating.
Reheating
To revive leftover skewers, pop them back in your air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through; this helps restore their juicy center and crisp edges. You can also reheat in a microwave, but the air fryer gives the best texture by far.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay incredibly juicy and are more forgiving to cook, so choose whichever cut you prefer or have on hand. Both work beautifully in this recipe.
How spicy is the Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Old Bay seasoning delivers a mild, savory spice rather than hot heat. For those who want an extra kick, simply add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the marinade.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries. You can bake the skewers in a hot oven (about 425°F) on a wire rack for 15–18 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and a little crispy.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Marinating overnight is a fantastic option if you want even more depth of flavor! Cover and refrigerate the chicken in the marinade for up to 24 hours before assembling the skewers.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, as long as your Old Bay seasoning is certified gluten free (most are), this Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe is perfect for a gluten free main course. Always check your ingredients if you have dietary concerns.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re inspired to make this Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe part of your regular dinner rotation. It’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and absolutely bursting with coastal-inspired flavor. Gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and get ready to wow your friends and family with something truly special!
Print
Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick dinner. Marinated in a blend of Old Bay seasoning, olive oil, and lemon juice, these skewers are then air-fried to golden perfection. Serve with a side of rice or salad for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 ½ tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Lemon wedges and chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes with olive oil, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Thread Skewers: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Cook Skewers: Air fry skewers for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with optional lemon wedges and parsley.
Notes
- Serve with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- For extra spice, add cayenne or crushed red pepper to the marinade.
- Shrimp can be used instead of chicken for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
