If you’re craving bold flavours and a quick, healthy meal, these Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Skewers are the answer. Packed with juicy chicken breast and a punchy homemade Cajun spice blend, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes. Using the air fryer means you get perfectly charred, succulent chicken without the mess or excess oil of traditional grilling.
These skewers are ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a summer barbecue alternative. The Cajun marinade infuses the chicken with smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of heat, while the air fryer locks in moisture and creates a deliciously crisp exterior. Serve them with a fresh salad or cauliflower rice for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Simply marinate the chicken, thread onto skewers, and air fry until golden and cooked through. You’ll love how easy and satisfying this dish is—plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in carbs.
At a glance
- Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 220 kcal
Ingredients
- 600g Chicken breasts (Cut into 2.5cm cubes)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed)
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Tongs
Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to form a marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss well to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavour).
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp 74°C).
- Remove the skewers and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: No known allergens
Potential swaps:
- Chicken breasts → Chicken thighs — For extra juiciness and flavour.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a more neutral flavour.
- Cayenne pepper → Chilli flakes — Adjust heat level to preference.
Serving Ideas
- Cauliflower rice – absorbs the Cajun juices and keeps it keto.
- Green salad – adds freshness and crunch to balance the spice.
- Grilled courgette ribbons – for a smoky, low-carb side.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Cut chicken pieces evenly for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crisp edges.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for juicier results.
Variations
- Add chunks of bell pepper or courgette to the skewers for extra veg.
- Swap Cajun seasoning for lemon and rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.
Troubleshooting
- If chicken is dry, reduce cooking time or use thighs.
- If skewers are burning, check air fryer basket spacing and soak wooden skewers longer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 3–4 minutes until hot.
Ingredient Spotlight
Chicken breasts: Lean, high-protein, and perfect for absorbing bold marinades.
Smoked paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the Cajun blend.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the skewers.
How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate and thread the chicken up to a day in advance. Cook just before serving.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can grill or oven-bake the skewers at 220°C for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway.
Are these skewers spicy?
They have a mild kick, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Skewers with Zesty Low-Carb Marinade
Ingredients
- 600g Chicken breasts (Cut into 2.5cm cubes)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to form a marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss well to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavour).
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp 74°C).
- Remove the skewers and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: none
- Chicken breasts → Chicken thighs — For extra juiciness and flavour.
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a more neutral flavour.
- Cayenne pepper → Chilli flakes — Adjust heat level to preference.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Energy: 220 kcal
