These Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a fun treat! Juicy chicken bites wrapped in crispy bacon with a tasty BBQ sauce make for a delicious meal.
Getting that bacon crispy in the air fryer is simply magical. When the family hears the sizzle, they know it’s going to be a good dinner! 🍗🥓
I love how quick they cook up! Just a few minutes in the air fryer and they’re ready to enjoy. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend feast with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is perfect for this recipe as it cooks quickly and stays juicy. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Bacon: I love using regular cuts of bacon for its crispiness. For a healthier twist, turkey bacon works too! You can also try prosciutto for a gourmet touch, but it will be less crispy.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce works great! If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own for a unique flavor. You can consider sugar-free sauces if you’re watching sugar intake.
Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers add nice color and flavor. You can switch these for mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a sweeter take!
How Do I Get My Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting the bacon crispy is key for these kabobs! Here’s how you can ensure perfect results:
- Wrap each chicken piece snugly with bacon but don’t overlap it too much, as it needs space to cook evenly.
- Cook the kabobs in a single layer. If they’re stacked, it can trap moisture and make the bacon soggy.
- Turn them halfway through cooking. This helps achieve that perfect crisp on all sides.
Don’t skip brushing them with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes — this helps with caramelization and adds extra flavor!
Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 8 slices bacon, cut in half
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 orange bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
For Flavor:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray
Additional:
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation, plus around 12 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious kabobs in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner or fun get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First, set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking for your kabobs.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with half of the BBQ sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. This will give the chicken great flavor!
3. Wrap the Chicken:
Take each chicken cube and wrap it tightly with half a slice of bacon. If the bacon isn’t staying in place, use a toothpick to secure it. This will keep it together while cooking.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now, take your soaked wooden skewers and thread them with the bacon-wrapped chicken, alternating with sliced zucchini, red onion, and colorful bell peppers. Make sure to pack them in nicely!
5. Spray for Crispiness:
Lightly spray the kabobs with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps the bacon get that nice, crispy texture as it cooks.
6. Air Fry the Kabobs:
Carefully place the kabobs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. This allows proper air flow for even cooking.
7. Cooking Time:
Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn the kabobs halfway through cooking to ensure the bacon gets crispy on all sides, and the chicken cooks through.
8. Add More BBQ Sauce:
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the kabobs generously with the remaining BBQ sauce. This will help caramelize the sauce and add amazing flavor.
9. Rest and Serve:
Carefully remove the kabobs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and makes them even tastier!
10. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious kabobs warm, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy this savory, colorful dish with your family or friends!
These smoky, juicy kabobs are sure to be a hit at your table. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a few extra minutes compared to chicken breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a great substitute. Alternatively, you could use prosciutto for a gourmet twist, although it won’t get quite as crispy as traditional bacon.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through. For best results, air fry for a couple of minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a sweet contrast. Just ensure the cooking time is suitable for the veggies you choose!
