Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers Recipe
There’s something irresistible about juicy, flavorful chicken skewers fresh off the grill (or air fryer!). I made these Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers for a quick weeknight dinner, and they were an instant hit! The bold citrusy heat, combined with the smoky char from grilling, makes them an absolute must-try. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken, olive oil, paprika, salt, lemon pepper, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well to coat every piece evenly. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, about 4-5 pieces per skewer. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Air Fryer: Place skewers in a single layer and cook at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Oven: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Grill: Cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Melt butter and mix with paprika, lemon pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, and parsley. Brush the mixture over the cooked skewers for an extra burst of flavor.
- Remove from skewers or serve them as is. Enjoy hot with your favorite side dishes!
Notes
- Cut Chicken into Uniform Cubes: Evenly sized chicken pieces ensure consistent cooking and prevent some pieces from drying out. Aim for 1-inch cubes to get the best texture and juiciness.
- Adjust the Spice Level to Your Taste: If you love heat, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne. For a milder version, use less seasoning while still keeping the zesty lemon flavor intact.
- Let the Skewers Rest After Cooking: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain its juices. This simple step makes the skewers extra tender and flavorful when you take that first bite!
- Oil the Grill to Prevent Sticking: If grilling, lightly oil the grates before placing the skewers. This prevents the chicken from sticking and ensures those beautiful grill marks on every piece.