These Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces, wrapped in crispy bacon, are perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor.
Who can resist the combination of smoky bacon and sweet BBQ? I love making these for a quick dinner or a party. Just pop them in the air fryer, and watch them sizzle!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast. It’s lean and cooks well in the air fryer. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey breast works too. You can also use chicken thighs for extra moisture and flavor.
Bacon: Bacon is key here for that smoky flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even prosciutto can be used. Just keep in mind that cooking times may differ. You might want to cut the bacon strips in half if using thicker slices.
BBQ Sauce: I love a tangy, sweet BBQ sauce for these kabobs. If you’re watching sugar intake, consider using a sugar-free or homemade BBQ sauce. You can even mix in hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices add depth to the chicken’s flavor. If you don’t have them, finely chopped fresh garlic and onion can substitute, just be cautious with the amounts, as they can be stronger.
How to Wrap the Chicken with Bacon Like a Pro?
Wrapping bacon around chicken might seem tricky but it’s simpler than you think! Here’s how you can do it perfectly:
- Start with a piece of chicken, and lay it on a flat surface.
- Take a strip of bacon and start at one end of the chicken, wrapping it around tightly.
- Secure the bacon in place if needed by pushing a skewer through the center, or just let it stay as is. The bacon will shrink while cooking and stay in place.
Creating a tighter wrap helps the bacon cook evenly and ensures it crisps up nicely. Don’t rush this step; take your time for the best results!
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Overall, you should be ready to serve in about 30 minutes. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This helps to ensure that your kabobs cook evenly and get that delicious crispy bacon texture!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated with the seasonings. This will add great flavor to your kabobs!
3. Wrap the Chicken:
Take a strip of bacon and wrap it around each cube of chicken. If needed, secure the bacon with a skewer to make sure it stays wrapped during cooking. Repeat this for all the chicken pieces—your kabobs are looking tasty already!
4. Arrange the Kabobs:
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken kabobs in the air fryer basket, making sure to space them out so they aren’t overcrowded. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook everything evenly.
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Brush the kabobs with BBQ sauce on all sides. Don’t be shy—get a good coating on there for that yummy BBQ flavor!
6. Cook the Kabobs:
Cook the kabobs in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the bacon becomes nice and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the kabobs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer. If you like, drizzle a little more BBQ sauce on top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing touch. Enjoy your delightful kabobs!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to your kabobs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if the pieces are larger. Aim for about 15-18 minutes total cooking time, flipping halfway through.
What Type of Bacon Works Best for These Kabobs?
Thick-cut bacon is ideal as it crisps up nicely and holds its shape around the chicken. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used, but keep in mind it may not get as crispy. Adjust cooking time to ensure it’s adequately cooked through!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore some of their crunchiness, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Recipe with Different Sauces?
Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite sauce—teriyaki, honey mustard, or even a spicy marinade can work wonderfully. Just brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking to keep the flavors vibrant and avoid burning the sauce.
