These Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with BBQ sauce make every bite delicious.
Plus, using an air fryer means they cook quickly and you don’t have to worry about the mess of grilling. I can’t resist grabbing a few right off the skewer—they’re that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is great for this recipe, but you can also use thighs if you prefer. They are juicier and more flavorful, especially when wrapped in bacon!
Bacon: I like using regular cut bacon for its balance of crispy and chewy. Turkey bacon can also be used for a lighter option, but keep in mind it may not get as crispy.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor. A homemade sauce or a sweeter variety adds a nice touch. For a spicy kick, consider a sauce with chipotle or hot sauce mixed in.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key to adding depth. If you want a twist, try using cumin for an earthy flavor, or a dash of cayenne for heat!
How Do I Make Sure the Bacon is Crispy?
Getting bacon to crisp up perfectly can be tricky but is essential for these kabobs. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your air fryer well to ensure it cooks the bacon quickly.
- Keeping the chicken pieces slightly spaced apart is crucial; this allows hot air to circulate and makes for crispier bacon.
- Turn the kabobs halfway through cooking; this helps the bacon cook evenly.
- Check that the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (73°C) to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and safe to enjoy!
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking in the air fryer, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy option for a delicious meal, ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This gets the air fryer ready to cook your kabobs evenly and perfectly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix your chicken cubes with the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chicken is nicely coated – this will add a lot of flavor!
3. Wrap the Chicken:
Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half. Now, wrap each half slice of bacon around a piece of chicken. If the ends don’t stick well, you can use a toothpick to secure them in place. This gives you tasty little parcels!
4. Skewer the Kabobs:
Thread your bacon-wrapped chicken pieces onto skewers. Depending on how many you make and the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Make sure they look great!
5. Cook the Kabobs:
Arrange the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd them so they cook evenly. Air fry the kabobs for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through. They’re ready when the bacon is crispy, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the kabobs out of the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve your delicious kabobs with lemon wedges and extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken first. The best way to thaw frozen chicken is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Just make sure to pat it dry before marinating!
What Can I Use Instead of BBQ Sauce?
If you want to switch things up, try using teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a homemade marinade. Just remember that this may alter the flavor profile, so choose a sauce that complements the seasoning of the chicken and bacon!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kabobs in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This will help to crisp up the bacon again!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and color. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly if you add denser vegetables like peppers to ensure everything is nicely cooked!
