These Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken gets wrapped in crispy bacon, and then they soak up delicious BBQ sauce for a finger-licking meal.
Honestly, who could resist the combo of tender chicken and crunchy bacon? I love serving these with some fresh veggies on the side. They make dinner feel like a fun BBQ party! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken is great here. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work just as well. They add a bit more flavor and juiciness!
Bacon: I like using regular bacon for that perfect crisp. For a lighter twist, try turkey bacon; it still gives a nice flavor. Just be sure to check cooking times, as it may cook differently.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce is perfect. If you want a healthier version, you can make a simple homemade sauce using ketchup, honey, and vinegar. Adjust sweetness to taste!
Spices: The smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, try regular paprika. You can also omit it if you’re not a fan of smoky spices.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep it juicy and well-cooked:
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). It’s the best way to be sure it’s safe to eat.
- Keep a close eye on cooking time, especially when adding BBQ sauce, as it can char quickly in the air fryer.
- Let the kabobs rest a couple of minutes after cooking. This step helps juices redistribute for a tender bite.
Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 12 slices bacon (regular or thin-cut)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, depending on your air fryer. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together well to make sure each piece of chicken is nicely coated.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Cut the bacon slices in half or thirds, based on how long you prefer them. You’ll want them to be long enough to wrap around the chicken but not too long that they hang over.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take one piece of seasoned chicken and wrap it tightly with a piece of bacon. Then thread the bacon-wrapped chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, packing them closely, and fill each skewer with about 4-5 pieces of chicken.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Cooking the Kabobs:
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. If you have a lot, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry them for about 10 minutes.
6. Brush with BBQ Sauce:
After the first 10 minutes, take the kabobs out and brush them generously with BBQ sauce. Flip them over carefully and brush the other side with the sauce as well.
7. Finish Cooking:
Return the skewers to the air fryer and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the bacon has crisped up nicely. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
If you like, you can brush on some extra BBQ sauce before serving. Let the kabobs rest for a couple of minutes, then dig in and enjoy these juicy chicken bites wrapped in smoky bacon! Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
These kabobs are perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home—enjoy the flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as they may need a minute or two longer to cook thoroughly.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can try a homemade sauce with ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Alternatively, teriyaki sauce or even a spicy glaze can give you a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat well in the microwave or in the air fryer at a lower temperature to maintain crispiness.
Can I Make These Kabobs Ahead of Time?
You can prep the kabobs a few hours in advance! Just assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Try to add the BBQ sauce right before air frying for the best flavor and texture.
