Air Fryer Chicken BBQ Skewers

These Air Fryer Chicken Skewers with BBQ Sauce are my trick for a speedy and seriously delicious weeknight dinner that feels special. The chicken turns irresistibly juicy and flavorful thanks to a punchy BBQ rub, and the air fryer crisps the edges just right while keeping cleanup easy. A smoky-sweet glaze brings it all home—perfect for everything from cookouts to quick meals when you are craving something comforting.

I first whipped up these skewers on a day when I was craving BBQ but the weather refused to cooperate. They were such a crowd-pleaser my family asks for them every month now and I love how little mess they leave behind.

What You'll Need

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: This cut stays juicy in the air fryer and is forgiving if you cook a minute too long. Look for chicken with a fresh pink color and minimal smell.
• Garlic powder: This delivers serious savory flavor without chopping. Use fresh or a quality brand for the best taste.
• BBQ seasoning: A good BBQ blend makes all the difference. Smell it before buying to make sure it is fresh and aromatic.
• Kosher salt: Brings out the flavors. Bigger flakes mean you can distribute seasoning evenly.
• Ground black pepper: Adds zing. Use freshly ground for the biggest impact.
• Olive oil spray: Creates a perfect golden crust. Go for pure olive oil without additives if possible.
• BBQ sauce: Sweet or tangy is up to you. Use your favorite or try a small-batch variety for a flavor boost.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Lifts the dish at the end. Fresh is best but you can skip it if none is handy.

How to Make It

Cut and Prep Chicken:

Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks aiming for even pieces so they cook at the same rate. This helps every skewer turn out tender and juicy. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the rub stick.

Thread on Skewers:

Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers leaving a bit of space between them so the hot air circulates and cooks each side evenly. If using wooden skewers soak them in water for thirty minutes to prevent burning.

Season Fully:

Sprinkle the chicken all over with kosher salt ground black pepper garlic powder and BBQ seasoning. Toss everything together either in a bowl or on a tray until completely coated for maximum flavor.

Marinate for Flavor:

Let the seasoned chicken rest covered in the fridge for at least thirty minutes. This gives the spices time to soak in and really infuse the meat. If you have time an hour is even better.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set the air fryer to three hundred seventy degrees Fahrenheit and let it come to temperature. Preheating ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately and develops that irresistible golden crust.

Cook and Glaze:

Arrange the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping or crowding. Lightly spray with olive oil. Cook for about eight to ten minutes turning once halfway. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last three minutes to create a sticky caramelized coating.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skewers using tongs and transfer to a plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Serve them hot either right on the skewer or slid off onto a plate.

I absolutely love the punchy kick the BBQ rub brings and it reminds me of summer evenings with my kids sneaking bites as soon as the skewers hit the plate. Sometimes we end up eating these straight from the cutting board because everyone is too hungry to wait.

How to Store

Leftover skewers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispness. You can also freeze cooked skewers wrapped tightly for up to two months—just thaw and reheat as needed.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer a leaner cut but check for doneness as it can dry out faster. If you are out of BBQ seasoning use a mix of smoked paprika brown sugar and a little chili powder. Try honey mustard or teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ for a whole new flavor.

How to Serve

These skewers work great with simple sides like roasted potatoes a crisp green salad or corn on the cob. Sometimes I pile the chicken onto flatbreads with extra BBQ sauce and crunchy slaw for a twist. For parties I cut the skewers into smaller bites for easy snacking.

A Quick Note on BBQ Culture

Cooking with BBQ flavors in the air fryer is a delicious shortcut for those times you want smoky vibes without firing up the grill. While nothing beats an outdoor barbecue this trick lets me enjoy those deep flavors no matter the weather or season.

Seasonal Adaptations

Grill outdoors if you want extra char during warm months. Add chopped peppers or red onion to the skewers for color and extra nutrients. Try a spicy BBQ sauce in the cooler months for a comforting kick. The balance of sweet smoky and lightly charred is my favorite thing about these skewers. They are proof that bold satisfying flavors are possible any night with the right shortcuts and a trusty air fryer. Kids love helping to thread the chicken too and there are rarely any leftovers in our house.

Success Stories

One friend told me she made double batches during a family reunion and there was not a single skewer left by dinner. Another reader swaps in tofu cubes and says even the meat-eaters gobble them up. Sharing meals like this brings everyone together and that is what cooking is all about.

Freezer Meal Conversion

After cooking and cooling the skewers wrap them in foil or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat quickly in the air fryer. I often stash a few away for those nights when we are too busy or tired to cook from scratch.

This is the kind of meal you will want to make again and again thanks to juicy chicken, easy prep, and bold BBQ flavors. I hope these skewers bring just as much joy to your table as they do to ours.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the air fryer?

Marinating the chicken ensures it stays moist. Avoid overcooking by checking doneness after 10 minutes and keep the pieces similar in size for even cooking.

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but be cautious not to overcook as it can dry out faster than thighs. Cut into even pieces for best results.

→ What type of BBQ sauce pairs best with these skewers?

Classic smoky or sweet BBQ sauces complement the chicken's flavor. You can experiment with spicy or tangy varieties to suit your taste.

→ Do I need to soak wooden skewers before air frying?

Soaking wooden skewers for at least 20 minutes helps prevent burning during air frying, especially at higher temperatures.

→ Can I prepare these chicken skewers ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and marinate the skewers in advance. Store covered in the fridge for up to a day before air frying when ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables to the skewers?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini add color and flavor. Cut them to similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking.