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–+ servings
Air Fryer Keto Chicken Skewers

Air Fryer Keto Chicken Skewers - Juicy, Fast, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.25-inch cubes (breasts work too)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing the basket)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 to 1.25 teaspoons fine sea salt, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Optional low-carb add-ons for skewers: chunks of bell pepper, red onion, or zucchini
  • Skewers (metal or wooden; if wooden, soak in water for 20–30 minutes)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut into even, bite-size cubes so they cook at the same rate.
  • Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  • Marinate: Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 380°F (193°C) for 4–5 minutes. Lightly brush or spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Skewer the chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, packing them snugly but not too tight. If adding low-carb veggies, alternate pieces so everything cooks evenly.
  • Air fry, first side: Arrange skewers in a single layer without overlapping. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 7 minutes.
  • Flip and finish: Turn the skewers and cook another 5–7 minutes, until the edges are browned and the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest and garnish: Let skewers rest 3 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.
  • Serve: Pair with cauliflower rice, a crunchy cucumber salad, or a creamy keto dip like avocado lime sauce or garlic yogurt (use full-fat, unsweetened).
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