Chicken kabobs made in an air fryer are a fast and flavorful appetizer or main course. They capture the smoky, grilled-skewer taste but cook much faster and with less mess than using an outdoor grill.
While I sometimes make Indian-style chicken tikka in the air fryer with a longer, more complex marinade, these kabobs have a simpler Middle Eastern-inspired seasoning and require only a short marination. I usually prep the rest of the meal, then pop the skewers into the air fryer — they’re ready in under 10 minutes.
My family enjoys these as an appetizer, and they’re also great tucked into wraps with lettuce and salad for an easy lunch.
Ingredients
1. Chicken cubes: Boneless chicken breast cut into even cubes works well; you can use thigh meat if you prefer a juicier result. Keep the pieces a similar size for even cooking.
2. Spices: A simple mix of onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, paprika and a pinch of cayenne plus lemon juice makes a bright, savory marinade. You can also substitute Cajun or peri-peri spice blends if you like more heat.
3. Oil: Olive oil or mustard oil helps coat the chicken. Because chicken breast is lean, oil prevents the meat from drying out while cooking.
4. Peppers and onions: Cut into cubes and toss them in the marinade with the chicken. They char and caramelize nicely in the air fryer. Feel free to add zucchini, carrots, or small broccoli or cauliflower florets.
Tips to Make the Best Air-Fryer Chicken Kabobs
These kabobs traditionally cook over charcoal for a toasty flavor, but an air fryer replicates that char without the hassle. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Cut chicken and vegetables into similar bite-sized pieces so everything cooks evenly.
- If you use wooden skewers, trim them to fit your air fryer and soak them in water for 15–20 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers are a good alternative if they fit.
- Preheat the air fryer so the meat and vegetables start sizzling immediately. Brushing the kabobs with a little butter during cooking adds extra richness.
- Avoid overcooking — chicken breast can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer and remove the kabobs when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Collect any juices that drain below the basket and spoon them over the kabobs for extra flavor, or use them to make a quick sauce.
- Serve with your favorite chutney, dip, or a simple yogurt sauce.
Step-by-Step
1. Clean and pat dry the chicken cubes. Cut the pepper and onion into similar-sized squares and set aside.
2. Combine the oil, lemon juice and spices in a small bowl.
3. Put the chicken, peppers and onions into a bowl. Add the spice-oil mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate to marinate for about 30 minutes. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for the same time.
Air Frying Instructions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces. Aim to pierce through the center so items stay secure.
3. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil and place the skewers inside in a single layer. Depending on your fryer size, you may need to cook in batches. In an XL air fryer I can fit four skewers (about 1 lb / 500 g) at once.
4. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, until the outside is nicely crisp and the chicken is cooked through. Check with a meat thermometer for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the skewers, spoon any collected juices over them if desired, and serve hot.
Recipe Summary
Serves: 4 | Prep: 2 mins | Marinate: 30 mins | Cook: 8–13 mins | Total: about 45 mins
Ingredients (for 4 servings)
- 1 lb (about 500 g) chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 green pepper, cut into cubes
- 1 large onion, cut into cubes
- For the marinade: 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp black pepper, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cayenne (optional), 2 tsp lemon juice, 1½ tbsp olive oil (or mustard oil)
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Chef’s knife
Notes
These kabobs are traditionally grilled over charcoal for a smoky flavor, but an air fryer delivers great color and char without the mess. Cut ingredients into similar sizes, preheat your air fryer, and avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy. Use any vegetables you like, and serve with a dip or chutney.
If you try this recipe, serve hot and enjoy!