Name: Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist; 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a mild smoky flavor and color; ½ teaspoon kosher salt – balances the seasoning without overpowering it; 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning – the star flavor; fresh blends taste brighter than pre-ground versions; 2 cloves garlic (minced – fresh garlic gives a punchier taste than jarred); ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning – for a warm (peppery heat); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – adds richness when brushed over cooked skewers; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped – for a fresh, herby finish)

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Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers Recipe: Zesty & Juicy

I made these Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers the other night, and honestly, I’m still thinking about them. The tangy lemon punch mixed with that peppery kick is just irresistible.

The chicken comes out so juicy, and the smoky char from the grill makes it even better. I love how easy they are to throw together, whether I’m cooking for friends or just myself.

This is the kind of recipe that makes you look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen—when really, it’s ready in no time.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed – fresh chicken works best for tenderness; avoid pre-frozen for maximum juiciness
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist
1 teaspoon paprika – adds a mild smoky flavor and color
½ teaspoon kosher salt – balances the seasoning without overpowering it
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning – the star flavor; fresh blends taste brighter than pre-ground versions
2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic gives a punchier taste than jarred
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning – for a warm, peppery heat
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – adds richness when brushed over cooked skewers
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – for a fresh, herby finish

Note: Serves about 4–5 people based on the ingredient quantities above.

Variations

Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with more olive oil for brushing.
Extra Spicy: Mix in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Low-Sodium: Reduce the salt and choose a salt-free lemon pepper blend.
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon pepper with lime zest and freshly cracked black pepper for a tropical note.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Equipment You Need

Skewers: For threading chicken pieces; soak wooden ones to prevent burning.
Mixing Bowls: To coat chicken with seasonings evenly.
Air Fryer/Oven/Grill: Any of these will work, depending on your cooking preference.
Basting Brush: For brushing on the seasoned butter at the end.
Knife & Cutting Board: For cubing the chicken into even pieces.

How to Make Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers?

Marinate the Chicken

Start by adding your cubed chicken to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the olive oil, sprinkle on the paprika, salt, lemon pepper, minced garlic, and Cajun seasoning. Toss everything together until each piece is well coated. Let the chicken sit for about 15 minutes so the flavors can sink in.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, adding about 4–5 pieces per stick. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning. Keep the pieces spaced slightly apart so they cook evenly.

Cook the Skewers

If using an air fryer, place the skewers in a single layer and cook at 400°F for 11–12 minutes, flipping halfway. For the oven, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning midway. On the grill, cook over medium-high heat for about 8–10 minutes per side, until fully cooked through.

Brush with Seasoned Butter

Melt the butter and stir in a little paprika, lemon pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture over the cooked skewers for an extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish.

Serve and Enjoy

You can slide the chicken off the skewers or serve them as is. I love squeezing a little extra lemon juice on top right before digging in.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here’s what I’ve learned from making these skewers a few times:

Cut the chicken into equal-sized cubes so they cook evenly.
Add the Cajun seasoning slowly and taste-test—some blends are much hotter than others.
Let the cooked skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving; it keeps them extra juicy.
If grilling, lightly oil the grates so the chicken doesn’t stick.

How to Serve Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers?

These skewers are incredibly versatile. I sometimes serve them with fluffy rice and a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. They’re also perfect with grilled veggies on the side or tucked into pita bread with a drizzle of yogurt sauce.

For a fun twist, chop the chicken and toss it into pasta or grain bowls. And if you want to go big, pair them with roasted potatoes and fresh lemon wedges for that bright, zesty kick.

Nutritional Information

On average, each serving contains:

Calories: 180
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fat: 8g

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can marinate and skewer the chicken up to 2 days in advance, storing it in the fridge until ready to cook.

Storage: Cooked skewers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap cooked skewers in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven or air fryer until heated through—this keeps the chicken juicy without drying it out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish ticks all the boxes for a flavorful, easy meal.

Quick and Simple: Minimal prep and short cooking time make it weeknight-friendly.
Bursting with Flavor: The lemon-pepper combo is zesty, savory, and just the right amount of spicy.
Flexible Cooking Methods: Air fryer, oven, or grill—each works beautifully.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead or cook in bulk for quick lunches and dinners.
Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice to suit your taste buds.

Ash Tyrrell