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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Skewers

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Skewers - Fast, Juicy, and Packed With Flavor

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.25-inch cubes
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite; sweet, smoky, or spicy)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (brightens the sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.25-inch squares (optional)
  • 1 red onion, cut into 1.25-inch chunks (optional)
  • Neutral oil spray (for the basket)
  • 6–8 skewers (wooden or metal; soak wooden skewers)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • Make the marinade: In a large bowl, mix BBQ sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Marinate the chicken: Add chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until well coated. Cover and chill for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  • Prep veggies (optional): Toss bell pepper and red onion pieces with a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  • Assemble the skewers: Thread chicken and optional veggies onto skewers, leaving a tiny bit of space between pieces so air can circulate.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with neutral oil.
  • Cook the first side: Arrange skewers in a single layer without crowding. Air fry for 8 minutes.
  • Baste and flip: Brush skewers with a little extra BBQ sauce, flip, and brush again. Air fry for another 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
  • Caramelize (optional): For extra sticky edges, brush once more and cook 1–2 additional minutes.
  • Rest and serve: Let the skewers rest for 3 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onion if you like. Serve with extra BBQ sauce or a squeeze of lemon.
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