Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

Introduction

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs are a flavorful and juicy dish that’s quick to make, healthy, and perfect for any meal or occasion. These kebabs are marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, then cooked to perfection in an air fryer for that perfect grilled texture without the need for a barbecue. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing a meal for a picnic, or looking for a healthy yet tasty option for lunch or dinner, these Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs are a fantastic choice.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the flavors of grilled chicken with minimal preparation time. Plus, they’re Halal, so you can be sure that this recipe is free from pork, bacon, and alcohol, making it suitable for anyone following a Halal diet.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Quick weeknight meals
• Meal prep for the week
• Outdoor BBQs (with the convenience of an air fryer)
• Healthy eating

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs will become your go-to recipe for an easy, flavorful meal:

• Succulent and Juicy Chicken: The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and olive oil, resulting in tender and flavorful kebabs.
• Quick and Easy: With the help of an air fryer, these kebabs cook up in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for a busy weeknight or last-minute meal.
• Healthy Cooking: Air frying requires much less oil than traditional frying or grilling, making these kebabs a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap the vegetables or seasonings to suit your tastes or add more variety.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These kebabs are great for meal prepping, as they store well in the fridge and reheat easily.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 2-3 skewers per person)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious and healthy Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds (optional)
• Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Ingredient Highlights for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe. Chicken breasts will give you a leaner option, while thighs provide a juicier, more flavorful result.
• Yogurt: Yogurt is a key ingredient in the marinade, as it helps tenderize the chicken and adds a slight tanginess to the flavor.
• Spices: The combination of cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, and garlic powder infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors. You can also adjust these spices to suit your preferences.
• Vegetables: The vegetables, such as red onion, bell peppers, and zucchini, add flavor, color, and texture to the kebabs, complementing the tender chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

1. Marinate the Chicken for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, coriander, garlic powder, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken pieces into the marinade. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably, for a few hours in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still work, but the longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will become.

2. Prepare the Vegetables for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

1. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken is marinating, prep your vegetables. Cut the red onion, bell pepper, and zucchini (if using) into chunks or slices that will fit on your skewers. Try to make the pieces a similar size to ensure even cooking.
2. Skewer the Ingredients: After the chicken has marinated, alternate threading the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers. You can arrange them in any pattern you like, but try to leave a little space between each piece to allow the air to circulate around them while cooking.

3. Preheat and Cook the Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and quickly.
2. Air Fry the Kebabs: Place the skewers into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook the kebabs in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Cooking Time: Air fry the chicken kebabs for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want a slightly charred effect, you can cook for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

4. Serve the Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

1. Remove the Skewers: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer. Be careful, as they will be hot.
2. Serve: Serve the Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs with your favorite side dishes such as rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. You can also add a side of hummus or tzatziki sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Rice or Couscous: Pair the kebabs with a side of fluffy rice or couscous for a complete and filling meal.
• In Wraps: Serve the kebabs in pita or flatbread with fresh veggies, herbs, and your favorite sauces like hummus or tahini.
• With a Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese makes a great side to balance the savory flavors of the chicken.
• As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve the kebabs as a snack or appetizer at your next party or gathering. They are perfect for finger food!

Additional Tips for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

Here are some tips to ensure your Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For even cooking, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. If needed, cook the kebabs in batches.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight. This will result in more flavorful and tender kebabs.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers in different colors.
• Adjust the Spices: If you like spicier food, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for an extra kick.

Recipe Variations of Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

Here are 5 variations of Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs that you can try:

• Spicy Chicken Kebabs: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Honey Mustard Chicken Kebabs: Substitute the yogurt for honey mustard dressing for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs: Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs like oregano and thyme to the marinade for a Mediterranean twist.
• Lemon Herb Chicken Kebabs: Marinate the chicken with fresh lemon zest, rosemary, and thyme for a zesty and herbaceous flavor.
• BBQ Chicken Kebabs: Coat the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce before air frying for a smoky, tangy flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked kebabs for up to 3 months. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to cook, cook directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding an extra 5-7 minutes of cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep them crispy.

Special Equipment for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs

Here are a few essential items you might need for making Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs:

• Air Fryer: The star of the show, an air fryer is essential for making crispy, grilled kebabs without a grill.
• Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers are perfect for threading the chicken and vegetables.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and preparing the vegetables.
• Tongs: Use tongs to safely flip and handle the skewers while they cook.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They will be juicier and more flavorful compared to chicken breasts.
2. Do I need to soak wooden skewers? Yes, if you’re using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning in the air fryer.
3. Can I use store-bought marinade? Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought marinade. Just ensure it’s Halal and free from any alcohol or pork products.
4. Can I cook the kebabs in a traditional oven? Yes, you can bake the kebabs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
5. How do I know when the kebabs are done? The kebabs are done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the juices run clear.

Print

Conclusion

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Kebabs are a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and health. They’re quick to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re grilling for a party, preparing a healthy weeknight meal, or meal prepping for the week, these kebabs are sure to impress. With the help of the air fryer, you can enjoy all the benefits of grilling without the hassle. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family!