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Air Fryer Chicken Skewers give you juicy chicken and charred veggies with barely any effort. From weekday suppers to relaxed weekends with friends these skewers are my go to for a satisfying and sturdy meal everyone loves.
I first threw these together before a last minute backyard dinner with my neighbors and since then they have become my reliable crowd pleaser. The combo of smoky spices and tender chicken always gets rave reviews.
What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen
- Chicken breasts: cut into cubes great for fast cooking and soaking up flavors look for chicken that is pale pink and plump for best results
- Olive oil: locks in moisture and helps the seasonings stick choose extra virgin for richer taste
- Garlic powder: brings a mellow savory kick make sure yours smells fresh
- Smoked paprika: adds a deep smoky warmth Spanish paprika is particularly fragrant
- Salt and black pepper: boosts and balances every bite use freshly cracked pepper for extra punch
- Wooden or metal skewers: the foundation of the dish soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning
- Bell peppers and onion: for color sweetness and crunch pick firm brightly colored peppers and onions with glossy skin
How to Make It Like a Pro
- Prep the Chicken:
- Dice your chicken into even one inch cubes this ensures everything cooks evenly and juices stay locked inside
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a large bowl whisk together olive oil garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper until fully blended coating each piece of chicken is key for max flavor
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken to your bowl and toss thoroughly let it sit for at least fifteen minutes but an hour is even better for deeper flavor
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers alternating with chunks of bell pepper and onion this gives you a rainbow of taste and texture
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Turn your air fryer to three hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully heat up so your skewers cook through quickly and evenly
- Cook the Skewers:
- Place the skewers in the basket with a little space between each cook for ten to twelve minutes flipping at the halfway mark until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve immediately try them with a cool dip or on top of a crisp salad
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I always reach for smoked paprika when making these the aroma reminds me of summer barbecue nights with my family and it is the ingredient that gives the whole dish its deeply savory backbone. Once my daughter declared this was her favorite dinner because it was food on a stick and easy to eat without a fork.
Keep It Fresh and Delicious
To keep things lively vary your vegetables according to what is in season. Zucchini mushroom and cherry tomatoes all roast up beautifully in the air fryer. If prepping ahead store assembled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge and brush with a little extra olive oil right before air frying for a juicy finish.
Genius Ingredient Swaps
Instead of chicken breast you can use boneless skinless thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture. Try adding a dash of cumin or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the marinade if you like a little heat. Sweet onions bring more mildness while red onions give extra bite.
Plating Like a Chef
Arrange your skewers on a platter layered over a bed of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Lemon wedges on the side make it look bright and offer a quick squeeze of fresh citrus. Serve with a yogurt based dip in a small bowl nestled among the skewers for an inviting look.
The Story Behind the Bite
Our family started air frying skewers to keep grilling flavors going all year round. Every time we make these the kitchen fills with the delicious smell of smoky spices and sizzling chicken. It is always fun to let everyone pick their own veggies for threading so dinner feels like a tiny celebration.
Chef’s Insider Tips
Make sure your chicken pieces are the same size to guarantee even cooking Do not overcrowd the basket or you will steam the chicken instead of getting those roasted edges we love Leftover skewers are perfect tucked inside a pita with a dollop of creamy yogurt sauce
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and stay juicy in the air fryer.
- → Can other vegetables be used on the skewers?
Yes, try zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added color and flavor variety with your chicken chunks.
- → How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before assembling to help avoid burning during cooking.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Tzatziki, ranch, or spicy sauces complement the seasoning and bring extra zest to each bite.
- → Can I marinate the chicken in advance?
Yes, marinating for several hours boosts flavor and tenderness. Refrigerate until ready to assemble and cook.
- → Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a nice golden-brown exterior.