If you love bold flavors and effortless cooking methods, then you’re in for a treat with the Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of Old Bay and lemon pepper, cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a crispy outside and juicy inside. The finishing touch is a luscious, tangy lemon herb glaze that elevates every bite. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is as delicious as it is simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for an uncomplicated list of ingredients that each play a vital role in delivering maximum flavor and a great texture. From the Old Bay seasoning’s classic savory punch to fresh parsley’s vibrant color, every item contributes something special to the dish.
- Chicken tenderloins (1 ½ lbs): The perfect cut for quick cooking and tender results on skewers.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds moisture and helps Old Bay seasoning stick to the chicken.
- Old Bay seasoning (1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon for glaze): The iconic blend that gives this dish its signature bold flavor.
- Lemon pepper seasoning (2 teaspoons): Brings a citrusy spice that brightens the meat.
- Wooden skewers (6, 8-inch): Soaked to prevent burning and perfect for even grilling.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a rich base for the lemon herb glaze.
- Mayonnaise or sour cream (2 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and depth to the glaze.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Provides a refreshing tang that complements the seasonings.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 teaspoons): Offers a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor for garnish and glaze.
- Garlic paste or minced garlic (1 heaping teaspoon): Introduces aromatic warmth to the glaze.
How to Make Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Marinate Chicken
Start by patting your chicken tenderloins dry to ensure the marinade clings well. Cut the chicken into 3 to 4 pieces each—this helps with even cooking on the skewers. Toss the chicken chunks with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning in a bowl and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, soak your wooden skewers in water for the same amount of time to prevent burning during cooking.
Step 2: Air Fry Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for cooking. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, making sure not to crowd them so air can circulate perfectly. Place the skewers in a single layer inside the air fryer basket and cook for 18 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve even golden crispiness. Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing juiciness and safety.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Herb Glaze
While the chicken cooks, prepare the mouthwatering glaze that gives this dish its unique character. Melt the butter gently over low heat, then remove it from the stove and whisk in mayonnaise (or sour cream), fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic paste. This creamy, citrus-infused glaze will coat the chicken with an irresistible shine and flavor boost as soon as it’s out of the air fryer.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
Once your chicken skewers are perfectly cooked, brush them generously with the lemon herb glaze while still hot. This step seals in moisture and ensures every bite is packed with bright, buttery goodness. Serve immediately to enjoy the combination of crunchy edges and luscious sauce at its freshest.
How to Serve Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning final touch, sprinkle some extra chopped fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon on the side. These simple additions not only add vibrant color but also allow guests to customize the tartness to their liking. A few grinds of fresh black pepper over the top can also enhance the depth of flavor.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair beautifully with a light and fresh salad, like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad tossed in vinaigrette, or a classic coleslaw that adds crunch and creaminess. For heartier options, garlic mashed potatoes or a warm couscous salad complement the rich lemon herb glaze perfectly, turning your meal into a wholesome feast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa sprinkled with a bit of parsley for a colorful plate. You can also arrange them on a large platter with small bowls of extra glaze for dipping, making it perfect for parties or casual get-togethers where everyone can dig in and enjoy a flavorful communal meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe, let any leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Put them in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days to maintain the best taste and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked skewers to enjoy later. Simply wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe bags. Frozen skewers will keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost them in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, use your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the edges. Alternatively, you can reheat gently in an oven or microwave, but the air fryer brings back much of that fresh, crispy texture that makes this recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken tenderloins cook quickly and stay juicy, you can also use chicken breast cut into chunks or thigh meat for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before cooking prevents them from burning in the air fryer, keeping your skewers intact and safe to handle.
Can I make the lemon herb glaze dairy-free?
Definitely! Simply substitute the mayonnaise or sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like vegan mayo or coconut yogurt to keep that creamy texture without dairy.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I cook these skewers another way?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can grill the skewers over medium-high heat or bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
How spicy is the Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe?
This recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the Old Bay and lemon pepper seasonings, making it enjoyable for almost everyone. You can always adjust the seasoning amounts or add a pinch of cayenne if you want more heat.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the bright, savory flavors and the effortless cooking process of the Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe. It’s a dish that brings zest and comfort to your table, perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the rave reviews from your family and friends—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
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Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers with Lemon Herb Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 53 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Tender chicken tenderloins are marinated in a zesty blend of Old Bay and lemon pepper seasoning, then cooked to juicy perfection in the air fryer. Finished with a rich, tangy sauce made from butter, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and garlic, these skewers deliver bold flavors with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenderloins (about 12 tenderloins), cut into 3-4 pieces each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 6 (8-inch) wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
For the Chicken Skewer Sauce/Glaze:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 heaping teaspoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)
Instructions
- Prep and Marinate Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry and cut each into 3-4 pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning. Mix well to coat all pieces thoroughly. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. Meanwhile, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
- Air Fry Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto each soaked wooden skewer. Arrange the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them for even cooking. Air fry the skewers for 18 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make Sauce: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove the butter from heat and stir in mayonnaise (or sour cream), fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic paste until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Once the chicken skewers are cooked through, brush them generously with the prepared sauce. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor and juiciness.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water before cooking prevents them from burning in the air fryer.
- You can substitute sour cream for mayonnaise in the sauce for a slightly different flavor and creaminess.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Feel free to add extra Old Bay seasoning to the sauce for a more intense flavor.
- Serve with a side of fresh salad or rice for a complete meal.
