This post is all about making air-fried Buffalo Ranch Chicken Skewers: tender, juicy chicken pieces perfectly cooked and basted with a mouthwatering buttery dry rub seasoning for irresistible flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken tenders (breasts or thighs work too, but tenders are extra juicy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 stick salted butter (8 oz)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
Ranch Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Buffalo Dry Rub Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon cayenne (reduce for less spice)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings & Chicken
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Mix the buffalo seasoning in one small bowl and the ranch seasoning in another; set aside.
- Cut chicken into 3-inch pieces. Place in a bowl or zip-top bag, add olive oil, 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning, and 1 tablespoon buffalo dry rub. Toss until evenly coated.
- Thread the chicken tightly onto skewers without leaving gaps to retain moisture.
Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture
- Soften the butter by microwaving for about 15 seconds until spreadable but not fully melted.
- Mix in 1.5 tablespoons buffalo seasoning, 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning, and minced chives. Adjust spice levels to taste.
- Divide the butter mixture: set aside 1/3 for basting raw chicken and reserve the rest for cooked skewers to avoid cross-contamination.
Step 3: Cook & Baste the Skewers (Air Fryer Method)
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook 2-3 skewers at a time for 5 minutes. Flip, baste with the butter mixture, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Flip once more, baste again, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Total cook time is about 12-15 minutes, depending on your air fryer.
- After cooking, brush with the reserved butter mixture and sprinkle with chives. Serve with ranch for dipping.
ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS
Oven:
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Arrange skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet. Cook for 14 minutes, flipping halfway and basting with butter.
- Broil for an additional 2 minutes to brown the tops. Finish with a final butter baste and sprinkle with chives.
Grill:
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers over direct heat, about 5-6 minutes per side, basting with butter throughout.
- After grilling, baste one last time with the butter mixture and sprinkle with chives.
Notes:
- Premade buffalo dry rub and ranch seasoning can be used for convenience. If these contain high sodium, opt for unsalted butter to balance the flavors.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your preference by reducing the cayenne or adding more brown sugar for sweetness.
