Why I Love This Recipe
Summertime is the perfect excuse to fire up the air fryer and enjoy delicious, juicy chicken kebabs! This easy-to-make recipe is a hit with friends and family, and it’s ideal for a quick dinner or a fun weekend meal. The marinade adds the perfect balance of zesty lemon, honey, and balsamic vinegar, while the oregano and garlic powder give the chicken a flavorful punch. The air fryer makes the cooking process so easy—no need to worry about grills or stovetops. Plus, it’s all done in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The kebabs come out beautifully golden, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Simple, healthy, and absolutely tasty!
Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs
Juicy, tender chicken marinated in a zesty honey and lemon marinade, cooked perfectly in the air fryer. This easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per Serving: 120 kcal
Ingredients
- 1/2 large lemon (for juice)
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinade)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon oregano
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (separate from above)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (diced, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl or Ziploc bag, combine the following ingredients for the marinade:
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed from half a lemon)
- Honey
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Oregano
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This tangy marinade will infuse your chicken with great flavor!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes on a cutting board.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the Ziploc bag, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, you can marinate the chicken overnight to deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) while the chicken is marinating. This ensures the air fryer is hot and ready for the kebabs.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken Skewers
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, adding about 4 cubes per skewer. If you don’t have skewers, you can simply place the chicken cubes in the air fryer basket, but skewers make it easier to manage.
Step 5: Cook the Kebabs
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer tray with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, flip the skewers and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will give the kebabs a nice golden color and ensure they are cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer and place them on a plate.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor.
- Air Fryer Size: Make sure the chicken skewers fit comfortably in your air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Check for doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and color. Just cut them into chunks and alternate them with the chicken on the skewers.
Recipe Notes
- Honey and Lemon Balance: The honey and lemon give a great sweet-tart balance. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to add a little more honey.
- Skewer Options: If you don’t have wooden or metal skewers, you can place the marinated chicken directly in the air fryer basket. Just be sure to cook them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Add your favorite vegetables to the skewers, like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini. They’ll cook along with the chicken and add extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating and cooking.
Q: Can I marinate the chicken for more than 30 minutes?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to refrigerate it while marinating to keep the chicken fresh.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe! They’ll be slightly juicier than chicken breasts, so feel free to swap them in if you prefer darker meat.
Q: Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?
You can prepare the skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. The marinade will help keep the chicken tender and flavorful.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Leftover chicken kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to maintain their crispiness.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the marinated chicken, freeze it before cooking. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and follow the recipe as usual.
This air fryer chicken kebab recipe is not only easy and quick, but it’s also full of flavor and makes the perfect summertime meal. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, a casual dinner, or simply craving a delicious chicken dish, these kebabs are sure to satisfy
