When it comes to quick and delicious meals, chicken kabobs hold a special place in our hearts. The sizzling aroma of marinated chicken pieces, infused with a tantalizing blend of spices and herbs, can turn any meal into a culinary celebration. If you’re craving these delectable treats but don’t have access to a traditional shaslik or barbeque oven, worry not! Your trusty air fryer is here to save the day. In this blog, I’ll guide you through the simple and satisfying process of making mouthwatering chicken kabobs using a mixture of spices, aromatic herbs, lemon juice and a touch of olive oil.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Chicken breast or thigh meat, cut into bite-sized pieces. You can use boneless or with bone according to your preference.

The magic Spice Mix: ( for 7-8 pieces of chicken )

Creating the perfect spice mix is the key to elevating your chicken kabobs from ordinary to extraordinary. Here’s a simple blend that will infuse your kabobs with robust flavors:

1 teaspoon paprika for a smoky undertone.

1/2 teaspoon cumin powder for warmth.

1/2 teaspoon coriander powder for a citrusy touch.

1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder for vibrant color.

Salt and black pepper to taste.

For the Herb Marinade:

Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and complexity to your kabobs. Here’s a delightful marinade:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro for a zesty kick , but it’s totally optional.

2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint for a cool, aromatic essence.

2 cloves of garlic, minced, for depth of flavor.

1/2 teaspoon onions and garlic powder for an interesting medley of flavor .

Juice of half a lemon for a tangy twist.

Olive oil to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.

Let’s Get Cooking:

Prep the Chicken: Start by washing and patting dry the chicken pieces. This helps the marinade cling better to the meat. Place the chicken in a bowl and set it aside.

Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix over the chicken pieces and toss them until they are evenly coated.

Create the Marinade: In another bowl, whisk together the chopped cilantro, chopped mint, minced garlic, and lemon juice. This fragrant mixture will lend an aromatic depth to the chicken.

Marinate the Chicken: Pour the herb marinade over the spiced chicken pieces. Massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Frying: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken kabobs in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking. Air fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning the kabobs halfway through for uniform browning.

You can cook it in OTG also. In that case – preheat the OTG: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your OTG to around 375°F (190°C).

Grease and Grill: Place the greased baking tray in the preheated OTG for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they cook evenly and don’t dry out.

Char It Up: For that delectable, charred exterior switch the OTG to broil or use the top heating element for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This step adds a smoky flavor and a touch of crunch to your kebabs.

Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before serving. The chicken should be cooked through with a lovely char on the outside.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your succulent chicken kabobs with a side of fluffy basmati rice or warm pita bread for dinner.

You can serve this with fresh fruits for snacks as well.

A refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip or a zesty ranch sauce would complement these kabobs perfectly.

In just a few simple steps, your air fryer transforms into a mini culinary haven, delivering flavorful and aromatic chicken kabobs that are sure to impress. With the right blend of spices, fresh herbs, and a touch of olive oil, you can create a memorable meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. So, fire up your air fryer and treat yourself to a delightful culinary adventure!

recipe video –