🌿 Air Fryer Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

These air fryer chicken and vegetable skewers are colorful, juicy, and full of flavor. The chicken stays tender thanks to a simple olive oil and spice marinade, while the vegetables become slightly charred and caramelized around the edges.

They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a light weekend lunch. Best of all, they’re easy to customize with different vegetables, spices, or protein swaps.

⏱️ Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 15–30 minutes

• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

• Total Time: About 30–45 minutes

• Serves: 2–3 people

🥗 Ingredients

For the Skewers

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 thick slice zucchini (courgette), chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 red onion, cut into wedges

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or mixed herbs)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: Fresh lemon juice

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Mix well.

2️⃣ Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
Let marinate for at least 10 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

3️⃣ Assemble the Skewers

Thread chicken and vegetables alternately onto soaked wooden skewers.
Leave a small gap between pieces to allow air circulation and even cooking.

4️⃣ Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat to 190°C (375°F) for 3–5 minutes.

5️⃣ Cook

Place skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through.

Chicken is done when:

• Internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F)

• Exterior is lightly golden with slight charring

6️⃣ Rest and Serve

Let the skewers rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Steamed rice

• Warm flatbreads or pita

• Couscous or quinoa

• A simple yogurt-garlic dip

• Fresh salad

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Cooking time may be similar but check internal temperature.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before using. This prevents them from scorching in the air fryer.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway through.
Or grill them for extra smoky flavor.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes. You can:

• Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.

• Assemble skewers a few hours before cooking and refrigerate.

Can I freeze them?

You can freeze the raw marinated chicken (without vegetables) for up to 2 months.
Cooked skewers can be frozen, but vegetables may soften after reheating.

What vegetables work well?

Great options include:

• Mushrooms

• Cherry tomatoes

• Yellow squash

• Red or yellow peppers

• Eggplant (cut small)

How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace chicken with:

• Halloumi (firm and holds shape well)

• Extra-firm tofu (pressed first)

• Mushrooms for a hearty option.