Air fryer kabobs: 22 Minutes to Flavorful Bliss

Name: Air fryer kabobs: 22 Minutes to Flavorful Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken fillet, cubed; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 27, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, let me tell you about air fryer kabobs! They’re an absolute game changer for those nights when you crave that smoky, grilled flavor but don’t want to fuss with a grill or spend hours in the kitchen. With the air fryer, you can whip these up in no time, and I’m talking about a major flavor explosion in just 22 minutes! Seriously, I’m in love with how juicy the chicken turns out, and the veggies? They’re perfectly tender and caramelized, just the way I like them.

This recipe is special to me because it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that my whole family enjoys. I remember the first time I made these kabobs; my kids couldn’t get enough! They loved helping me thread the colorful peppers and onions onto the skewers. It turned into a fun family activity, and now it’s a go-to for busy evenings or even casual gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize them with whatever veggies or seasonings you have on hand. I promise, once you try air fryer kabobs, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer kabobs are a fantastic way to enjoy delicious grilled flavors with minimal effort. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

Quick and Easy: You can have these kabobs ready in just 22 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthier Option: Cooking in an air fryer requires less oil, so you can indulge guilt-free!
Customizable: Use any vegetables or proteins you love, making it easy to adapt to your family’s tastes.
Mess-Free: No grill means no messy cleanup, just pop the basket in the dishwasher.
Flavor Packed: The air fryer locks in juices, making your chicken tender and flavorful with that irresistible char.

Trust me, once you try these air fryer kabobs, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Kabobs

To make these mouthwatering air fryer kabobs, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken fillet, cubed: I like to cut them into bite-sized pieces, so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Choose your favorite color—red, green, or yellow add a lovely pop to the kabobs!
1 onion, chopped: Sweet onions work best for a hint of caramelized goodness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to keep everything moist and adds a lovely richness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that extra punch of flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
1 teaspoon paprika: It gives the chicken a beautiful color and a slightly smoky taste.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust to your preference for the perfect seasoning.

Feel free to get creative with your ingredient choices—these kabobs are super versatile!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Kabobs

Getting your air fryer kabobs ready is as easy as pie! I love that this process is not only straightforward but also a great way to get the family involved. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Prepping the Ingredients

First things first, let’s prep those ingredients! Start by cubing your chicken fillet into bite-sized pieces—this helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Next, chop your bell pepper and onion into similar-sized chunks. I usually go for a mix of colors in my peppers; it makes the kabobs look so vibrant and appetizing! Oh, and if you’re short on time, you can even prep your veggies the night before and store them in the fridge. It saves a ton of time when you’re ready to cook!

Marinating the Chicken and Vegetables

Now it’s time for the fun part: marinating! In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a tasty marinade. Toss in your chicken, bell pepper, and onion, making sure everything is well coated. Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes if you can; this really lets those flavors sink in! If you’re in a hurry, even a quick 5-minute toss will still give you a nice flavor boost. Trust me, marinating makes all the difference when it comes to flavor in your kabobs!

Cooking Air Fryer Kabobs

Now that your air fryer kabobs are all prepped and marinated, it’s time to cook them to perfection! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential because a hot air fryer ensures that your kabobs get that lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Once it’s preheated, carefully place the skewers in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; giving them some space allows the hot air to circulate and cook everything evenly. I usually fit about 3-4 skewers at a time, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Cook the kabobs for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll want to keep an eye on them in the last few minutes—every air fryer is a little different! The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, a quick way to check is by cutting into a piece; it should be opaque and no longer pink.

Once they’re done, carefully remove the skewers (they’ll be hot!) and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more delicious. Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer kabobs!

Tips for Success

Want to take your air fryer kabobs to the next level? Here are some pro tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:

Soak those skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This prevents them from burning in the air fryer.
Mix up your proteins: Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein brings its own flavor and texture!
Experiment with veggies: Try adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms for a delightful twist. The more colorful your kabobs, the more appetizing they look!
Season generously: Don’t be shy with your spices! A sprinkle of cumin or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Don’t overcrowd: Give your kabobs enough space in the air fryer—overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.

With these tips, your air fryer kabobs will be a hit at the dinner table every time!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying your air fryer kabobs, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For each serving (1 skewer), you can expect approximately:

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Sugar: 2g

These kabobs are not only delicious but also a healthy option for dinner, packing in protein and flavor without the extra calories. Enjoy guilt-free!

FAQ about Air Fryer Kabobs

Got questions about air fryer kabobs? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while whipping up these delicious bites.

Can I use other meats for air fryer kabobs?

Absolutely! The beauty of kabobs is their versatility. You can easily swap out chicken for other proteins like shrimp, beef, or even pork. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For example, shrimp cooks much faster than chicken, so you’ll want to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Ground meats are also an option—just form them into patties or meatballs on the skewers for a fun twist!

What vegetables can I add to my kabobs?

You can get as creative as you like with the veggies! Some fantastic options include zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even asparagus. I love adding a mix of colors for that vibrant, appetizing look. Bell peppers and onions are classic choices, but feel free to throw in some eggplant or broccoli for added flavor and texture. The more variety, the better!

How do I know when my kabobs are done?

Checking for doneness is super important! The best way is to use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one handy, cut into a piece of chicken—it should be opaque and no longer pink in the center. For veggies, they should be tender but still vibrant in color. Trust your instincts; they’ll tell you when the kabobs are ready to shine!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any leftover air fryer kabobs (which is rare in my house!), storing them is a breeze. Just let the kabobs cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Honestly, they taste just as good the next day, making them perfect for meal prep!

When it comes to reheating, my favorite method is to pop them back in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This helps to retain that delicious, crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to overdo it; just heat them in short bursts to avoid rubbery chicken. Enjoy those leftovers as a quick lunch or dinner—you’ll be glad you did!