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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs Recipe

4.4 from 79 reviews

These Easy Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs are a flavorful and healthy meal option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Juicy chunks of chicken breast are marinated with a blend of spices and olive oil, then skewered with colorful bell peppers, zucchini, pineapple, and red onion. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, these kabobs have a delightful smoky, tangy taste enhanced by a coating of barbecue sauce and garnished with fresh parsley.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce

Vegetables and Fruit

  • 2 bell peppers (orange and red), cut into chunks
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • ½ cup pineapple chunks
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks

Other

  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized chunks. Place the chicken in a large bowl and add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Assemble the Kabobs: On skewers, alternately thread pieces of marinated chicken, bell peppers, zucchini slices, pineapple chunks, and red onion pieces. Ensure that ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking of the kabobs.
  4. Cook the Kabobs: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the assembled kabobs in the basket without overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure all sides get cooked evenly and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Apply Barbecue Sauce: In the last 3 minutes of cooking, brush the barbecue sauce generously on each kabob and continue air frying to let the sauce caramelize slightly on the chicken pieces.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Remove the kabobs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before assembling prevents them from burning in the air fryer.
  • If you don’t have an air fryer, these kabobs can also be grilled or baked at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Adjust the barbecue sauce quantity to taste or substitute with your favorite sauce for variety.
  • For a low-sodium option, reduce or omit the kosher salt and choose a low-sodium barbecue sauce.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked for food safety.

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