These Air Fryer Chicken Skewers are perfect for a quick and tasty meal! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated and then cooked in the air fryer for a lovely charred flavor without the fuss.
Watching them cook is like magic! I love serving them with fresh veggies or a side of dipping sauce. It makes for a fun meal that everyone enjoys! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breast for its lean protein. If you’re looking for a substitute, thigh meat is juicier and flavor-rich. Tofu can work for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds healthy fats and flavor. If you need a change, try avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Both have great cooking properties!
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices boost flavor without the fuss. If you’re fresh out, use one fresh garlic clove and a small onion, or skip them if you prefer fewer ingredients!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. You could swap it with regular paprika or even chili powder for a spicy kick. Dried herbs like oregano and thyme can be fresh if you have them—just double the amount!
Skewers: Wooden skewers need soaking to prevent burning. You could use metal skewers instead; they don’t need soaking and are reusable!
How Do I Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to getting deep flavor into your chicken. Combine your spices and oil for a tasty coating. Here’s how:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a big bowl.
- Add chicken and ensure each piece is well-coated. This step is important for flavor!
- Let the chicken sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have time.
- Don’t skip this; it helps the spices penetrate and results in juicy, delicious skewers!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 6-8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 1 hour to prepare these chicken skewers. This includes 30 minutes for soaking the wooden skewers and another 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Cooking in the air fryer will take an additional 10-12 minutes. So, in just over an hour, you can have a tasty meal ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
Start by soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This will keep them from burning in the air fryer.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces into the bowl and toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up all that delicious flavor!
3. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, take the soaked skewers and begin to thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While you’re assembling the skewers, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the skewers cook better when you put them in.
5. Cook the Skewers:
Carefully place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the basket—this helps with even cooking. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to make sure they cook evenly on all sides!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken skewers are done cooking and have a nice golden color, take them out of the air fryer. Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs or tenders instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if the pieces are larger or thicker, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they are heated through without becoming dry.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a few hours ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to deepen, making the skewers even more delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Wooden Skewers?
If you don’t have wooden skewers, you can use metal skewers instead—just skip the soaking step! Alternatively, you can cook the chicken pieces in the air fryer without skewering for a quick, hassle-free meal.
