Description
These Easy Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs are a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken paired with colorful vegetables and sweet pineapple. Marinated with a flavorful blend of spices and finished with a smoky barbecue sauce, these kabobs are perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken 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
Finishing Touches
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes to ensure uniform cooking. Chop the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion into chunks roughly the same size as the chicken pieces to keep consistency on the skewers.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the spices for enhanced taste.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces, bell peppers, zucchini slices, pineapple chunks, and red onion chunks alternately onto skewers. This layering not only adds vibrant color but also balances flavors and textures.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat up for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Kabobs: Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the kabobs halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Apply Barbecue Sauce: During the last 3 minutes of cooking, brush the kabobs generously with barbecue sauce. This adds a smoky, tangy glaze that caramelizes slightly in the air fryer.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- If you don’t have pineapple, you can substitute with cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for added moisture and flavor.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to assembly to prevent burning in the air fryer.
- Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; chicken should be 165°F internally for safety.
- You can double the marinade and save extra chicken for meal prep later in the week.
- This recipe is easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or spice blends.
Keywords: Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs, Easy Chicken Kabobs, Healthy Kabobs, Quick Dinner, Grilled Style Chicken