Air Fryer Glazed Chicken Skewers

Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 30 min marinating)

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Serves: 4

ingredients

For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Glaze:
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp sesame oil

Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
2. Toss well to coat evenly
3. Let marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator)

Step 2: Make the Glaze
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil
2. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened
3. Remove from heat and set aside (reserve half for serving)

Step 3: Assemble Skewers
1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onion chunks
3. Don't overcrowd—leave small gaps between pieces for even cooking

Step 4: Air Fry
1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C)
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray
3. Place skewers in a single layer (work in batches if needed)
4. Cook for 10 minutes, flip skewers
5. Brush with glaze and cook for another 2-3 minutes
6. Brush with more glaze and cook for final 2 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature

Step 5: Serve
1. Remove skewers and brush with reserved glaze
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions
3. Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, or salad

Pro Tips

- Chicken thighs are key: They stay juicier and more flavorful than breasts in the air fryer
- Don't overcrowd: Air circulation is crucial for that crispy exterior
- Watch the glaze: Apply it in the last few minutes to prevent burning
- Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F
- Make extra glaze: It's delicious as a dipping sauce!

Variations

- Teriyaki Style: Replace glaze with teriyaki sauce and pineapple chunks
- Mediterranean: Use lemon, oregano, and olive oil with cherry tomatoes and zucchini
- Spicy Korean: Add gochujang to the glaze and serve with kimchi
- BBQ: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the Asian-inspired glaze

 Air Fryer Glazed Chicken Skewers

Storage

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can then be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.