Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Name: Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken tenders or thighs (cut into 2-3" pieces); 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning; 1 tbsp paprika; 4 garlic cloves (minced); Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 8 oz salted butter (slightly melted); 2-3 tbsp olive oil; Hot sauce to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Juliette

Posted:

June 4, 2025

Updated:

June 4, 2025

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Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are a mouthwatering dish that brings the bold flavors of Atlanta right to your kitchen. These skewers boast a perfect blend of zesty lemon and spicy pepper, making them ideal for any gathering or cozy night in. The juicy chicken pieces, coated in a homemade butter sauce, are not only a treat for your taste buds but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether for game day, barbecues, or family dinners, these skewers will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in just 25 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of hot sauce, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Juicy and Tender: Cooking the chicken in an air fryer ensures it remains incredibly juicy while achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that satisfies everyone.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these skewers fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers requires some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment not only makes cooking easier but also enhances the overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Wooden skewers
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: Provides even cooking and helps achieve a crispy texture without excess oil.
Wooden skewers: Perfect for holding the chicken pieces together while cooking; they help maintain juiciness.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly and marinating the chicken effectively.

Ingredients

Hot lemon pepper is an Atlanta staple chicken wing flavor. We are using this delicious tangy, spicy and zesty homemade butter sauce on these air fryer chicken tenders that are so juicy they just fall apart.

For the Chicken Marinade

2 lbs. chicken tenders or thighs (cut in 2-3” pieces)
1 tablespoon Lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon Paprika
2 tsp cracked pepper
1 lemon zest only
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp salt
1-2 tablespoon hot sauce (Crystal, Frank’s, Louisiana, etc.)
2-3 tablespoon olive oil

For the Butter Sauce

1 – 8oz. stick salted butter (slightly melted)
2 tsp cracked pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 lemon, zest and juice (start with juice from half the lemon, add more if needed for the right tangy balance)
2 tablespoon hot sauce (Crystal, Frank’s, Louisiana)
2 tsp honey
pinch of salt

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep and Marinate Chicken

Place chicken chunks in a bowl.
Add all of the seasonings, hot sauce, and oil.
Mix well until chicken pieces are evenly coated.
Allow them to rest while preparing the butter mixture.

Step 2: Prepare Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, add the butter and microwave until it’s slightly melted.
Add remaining ingredients and mix together to form a paste.
Remove a portion of the butter mixture and place it into a separate bowl for basting cooked chicken (to prevent cross-contamination).

Step 3: Skewer Chicken

Skewer chicken pieces onto wooden skewers packing them tightly together to keep them extremely juicy.

Step 4: Cook in Air Fryer

Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray or use an air fryer liner.
Cook in batches of 2-3 skewers at a time to avoid overcrowding.
Cook at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
Remove the chicken and baste with butter mixture.
Return to air fryer for 4 minutes; flip the chicken, baste with butter again.
Return to air fryer for another 6 minutes until cooked through.

Step 5: Final Baste and Serve

Once chicken is finished cooking (internal temp reaches 165°F), remove it from the air fryer.
Baste the chicken on both sides one final time before serving.
Serve over rice with roasted vegetables, using any leftover lemon pepper butter on top.

Enjoy your Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. These skewers pack a punch of flavor and can complement many side dishes, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner.

Pair with Rice

Steamed White Rice: The mild flavor of steamed rice balances the spicy lemon pepper sauce.
Coconut Rice: Adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy chicken.

Add Fresh Veggies

Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to the skewers.
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions enhance the smoky flavor.

Use Dipping Sauces

Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch cools down the heat from the skewers.
Spicy Mayo: For those who love extra spice, this adds a creamy kick.

Make It a Wrap

Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the chicken in large lettuce leaves with fresh veggies for a low-carb option.
Pita Bread Sandwiches: Stuff warm pita bread with chicken and your favorite toppings for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

To achieve the best results with your Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers, follow these tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

Bold Flavoring: Use freshly cracked black pepper and high-quality lemon pepper seasoning for an intense flavor punch.
Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors before cooking.
Skewer Tightly: Packing chicken pieces tightly on skewers helps retain moisture during cooking.
Use an Instant Read Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption without overcooking.
Baste Generously: Apply the butter mixture generously throughout cooking to maintain juiciness and add richness.
Experiment with Heat Levels: Adjust hot sauce quantities based on your heat preference to customize the flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Complementing your Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with spicy chicken.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing adds freshness and nutrition.
Coleslaw: Crunchy slaw offers a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with tender chicken skewers.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness that balances out the spicy flavors of the dish.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the zesty lemon pepper sauce beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with any grilled dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

Overcrowding the air fryer: When cooking skewers, ensure there is enough space for hot air to circulate. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Skipping marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allowing the chicken to soak in the seasonings enhances taste, so don’t rush this step.
Neglecting temperature checks: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Not using enough oil: A little olive oil helps the spices stick and adds moisture during cooking. Don’t skimp on oil; it makes a difference in texture and flavor.
Ignoring butter baste timing: Basting during cooking is key to keeping the skewers juicy. Make sure to baste at the right intervals for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Wrap skewers tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place skewers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short bursts until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add skewers and cook, turning occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers?

Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are juicy chicken pieces marinated in a tangy lemon pepper sauce, then cooked until perfectly tender. This dish offers bold flavors that are irresistible!

How do I make Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers spicier?

To add more heat, you can increase the amount of hot sauce used in the marinade or choose a hotter variety of hot sauce. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Can I use other types of meat for these skewers?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can use shrimp or vegetables as well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on what you choose.

How long does it take to cook Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers?

Cooking time varies slightly but typically takes about 15 minutes in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C). Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Final Thoughts

Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers are not only flavorful but also versatile. They can be served as an appetizer or main dish and pair wonderfully with rice or roasted veggies. Feel free to customize the spice levels or even try different proteins based on your preference—this recipe is sure to impress!