Cilantro Lime Air Fryer Chicken

These Cilantro Lime Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for quick dinners or crowd-pleasing appetizers. Packed with bright lime and herby cilantro, every strand of chicken is super tender thanks to a creamy yogurt-based sauce. There is no need to plan ahead or marinate overnight—just mix up the sauce, skewer, and air fry for juicy bites without a hint of dryness.

I first made these when friends dropped by unexpectedly and now I keep chicken tenderloins on hand just for this reason. Everyone always asks what makes the chicken so moist and flavorful and it is all thanks to the greek yogurt in the sauce.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenderloins: are best for juicy results but you can also use boneless breasts or thighs just make sure to cut them into even pieces for even cooking
• Plain greek yogurt: creates that signature tang and irresistible juiciness go for 2 percent or higher for nice richness
• Fresh cilantro: is the heart of this dish always wash it well to avoid any grit and use both leaves and tender stems for the brightest flavor
• Lime juice: fresh is best it cuts through the richness and lifts every bite so grab a plump juicy lime from the store
• Jalapeno: deseeded for just the right kick and vibrant flavor check for firm shiny peppers
• Garlic: freshly minced adds warmth and depth
• Cajun seasoning: lends a gentle smoky note if yours is salt free remember to sprinkle in a bit of salt for balance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

Use a food processor or blender to combine greek yogurt garlic cilantro jalapeno lime juice and seasoning. Blend until very smooth and evenly green—no chunky bits left. This is where you lock in all the flavor.

Coat the Chicken:

Pour half the sauce into a big bowl and add your chicken pieces. Toss well with your hands or a spatula until everything is fully coated. The yogurt mixture should cling to every surface.

Skewer the Chicken:

Thread the coated chicken tightly onto wooden or metal skewers with the pieces touching each other. Do not leave gaps or the edges can dry out during air frying.

First Air Fry:

Place the skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Set to 400 degrees and cook for 4 minutes. The initial blast sets the coating.

First Baste and Flip:

Open the air fryer flip the skewers and use a clean basting brush to coat with reserved sauce from a small bowl. This layers on even more flavor and moisture.

Second Air Fry:

Cook another 5 minutes at 400 degrees. The yogurt caramelizes slightly and the chicken gets golden in spots.

Final Baste and Last Minutes:

Flip the skewers again and use a fresh brush dipped in the remaining clean sauce to baste a second time. Return to the air fryer for 1 to 2 more minutes. Check with a thermometer that chicken has reached an internal temp of 165 degrees.

Serve and Sauce Again:

Transfer skewers to a platter and drizzle with remaining sauce right before serving for that fresh pop.

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I truly believe fresh cilantro is what takes this dish from ordinary to outstanding. One summer my sister and I made these for a big backyard get-together and she kept sneaking bites of the chicken right off the skewers even before setting the table.

Storage Tips

Once cooked let the skewers cool then remove chicken from skewers and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to freeze them place cooled pieces in a zip-top bag and squeeze out excess air. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees until hot and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have greek yogurt plain whole milk yogurt will work just drain off any extra whey before using. You can swap lime for lemon for a different citrus note. For a milder version skip the jalapeno entirely or try using a touch of sweet smoked paprika. Chicken thighs make for even more juiciness if you are worried about overcooking.

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Serving Suggestions

Pile these skewers onto a platter with fluffy rice and grilled vegetables for a full meal. Chop leftovers to add protein to salads wraps or tacos. Sometimes I tuck warm chunks into corn tortillas with a drizzle of extra sauce and some pickled onions.

Cultural Context

These skewers borrow flavors from Mexican and Southwestern cuisine especially the combination of lime cilantro and yogurt. In many cultures yogurt marinades are used to tenderize meats while building a tangy flavor. I love how adaptable this recipe is for any gathering or meal style.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Just ensure the pieces are cut evenly for thorough cooking and tenderness.

→ Do I need to marinate the chicken before air frying?

No marinating is needed—simply toss the chicken in the cilantro-lime yogurt sauce right before air frying for great flavor and moisture.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Pack the chicken pieces tightly on skewers and baste with sauce during cooking to lock in moisture and flavor.

→ Can I make these in the oven or on the grill?

Absolutely. Bake at 450°F or grill over medium-high heat, flipping and basting as you cook for similar tender results.

→ What sides go well with these skewers?

Try serving with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, salads, or tuck the chicken into warm tortillas for fresh tacos.

→ What type of yogurt works best?

Choose plain Greek yogurt, 2% or higher, unsweetened, for the best sauce texture and flavor.