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Air Fryer Chicken Satay Skewers served on a plate

Air Fryer Chicken Satay Skewers

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Air fryer chicken satay skewers offer juicy, tender chicken with crispy edges and a sticky peanut-coconut glaze. Marinating for at least 30 minutes and flipping the skewers halfway through cooking ensures even caramelization and flavor. This recipe delivers authentic Southeast Asian taste quickly without needing a grill.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Dish
Cuisine: Southeast Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thigh cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 0.25 cup peanut butter smooth or chunky
  • 0.25 cup coconut milk full-fat for richness
  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoon lime juice fresh only
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric optional, for color
  • 8 pieces wooden or metal skewers wooden soak in water 30 minutes before use

Equipment

  • Air fryer Used for cooking the chicken skewers at 400°F
  • wooden skewers Soaked in water to prevent burning
  • Instant-read thermometer To check chicken internal temperature of 165°F
  • Mixing bowl For combining marinade and chicken

Method
 

  1. Whisk peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and optional turmeric until smooth in a mixing bowl. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
    0.25 cup peanut butter, 0.25 cup coconut milk, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 3 cloves garlic, 1 tsp turmeric, 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thigh
  2. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using. Thread 4-5 chicken cubes per skewer, leaving small gaps between pieces. Pat off excess marinade with paper towel to avoid drips.
    1.5 lbs chicken breast or thigh, 8 pieces wooden or metal skewers
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes before cooking the skewers to ensure immediate searing.
  4. Arrange skewers single layer in the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch space between to prevent steaming. Cook at 400°F for 6 minutes, then flip and cook another 4-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
    8 pieces wooden or metal skewers, 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thigh
  5. Transfer cooked skewers to a plate and rest for 5 minutes off heat. Serve with extra peanut sauce, lime wedges, and cucumber slices.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to let flavors penetrate deeply.
  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F to get crispy edges and caramelized glaze.
  • Flip skewers halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

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