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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs Recipe

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4.8 from 138 reviews

These Easy Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs are a quick and flavorful meal, combining tender chicken breasts with colorful vegetables and a tangy barbecue glaze. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, the kabobs are marinated with a blend of spices and cooked to juicy perfection in the air fryer, delivering a smoky taste without the hassle of grilling.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

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

Marinade and Seasoning

  • 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

Additional

  • Cooking spray
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces, to ensure even cooking. Chop the bell peppers, red onion, and slice the zucchini into similar-sized pieces for uniformity. Set aside the pineapple chunks.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended to create a flavorful marinade that will coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
  3. Marinate the Chicken and Vegetables: Add the chicken cubes and the cut vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and pineapple chunks) into the marinade bowl. Toss everything gently to coat all pieces thoroughly. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces for even air circulation.
  5. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  6. Cook the Kabobs: Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, turning the kabobs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Glaze with Barbecue Sauce: Remove the kabobs from the air fryer and brush all sides generously with barbecue sauce. Return the kabobs to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes at 375°F to set the glaze.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Carefully remove the kabobs from the skewers and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent burning in the air fryer.
  • You can use metal skewers for easier handling and no soaking required.
  • Adjust cooking time based on the size of chicken pieces and the model of your air fryer.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade.
  • Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.