This Air Fryer Chicken Skewers Recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful combination of gluten-free sweet chili sauce, honey, tamari, sriracha, and a touch of lime juice. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer, these skewers are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer. Chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with vegetables, fried rice, or noodle stir fry. With easy prep and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, gluten-free chicken dinner with big, bold flavors. Try this simple recipe today for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s full of umami and spice!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1 tablespoon minced chili garlic
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- ½ tablespoon garlic olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Slice the chicken thighs into 2-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large bowl.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix thoroughly, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space at both ends of each skewer for easier handling.
- Air Fry the Skewers: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the skewers and brush them with additional marinade.
- Finish Cooking: Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F. For extra crispy edges, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with your favorite sides like vegetables, fried rice, or noodle stir-fry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Air fryer cooking makes these skewers fast and hassle-free.
- Bursting with Flavor: A perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy in every bite.
- Versatile Pairings: Complements a variety of side dishes, from fresh veggies to rice or noodles.
- Healthy Option: Gluten-free ingredients and minimal oil make this a guilt-free treat.
Tips
- Even Cooking: Cut chicken pieces to a uniform size for consistent cooking.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Extra Crispy Edges: Turn up the air fryer temperature for a few minutes at the end.
- Marinate Longer: For richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Options: Swap chicken thighs with chicken breast, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spice Level: Adjust the sriracha and chili garlic to suit your heat preference.
- Sweetness Alternatives: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
- Add Veggies: Thread bell peppers, zucchini, or onions onto the skewers for a colorful addition.
FAQs
Can I use a grill instead of an air fryer?
Yes, these skewers can be grilled over medium heat, turning occasionally until cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftover skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave.
What if I don’t have tamari?
You can substitute tamari with low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Suggestions
- Pairings: Serve with steamed vegetables, fried rice, or a fresh noodle salad.
- Dipping Sauce: Pair with extra sweet chili sauce or a spicy peanut sauce for dipping.
- Party-Friendly: Make smaller skewers for appetizers at gatherings or events.
- Beverage Match: Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or a light beer for a complete meal experience.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
10
servings1
hour10
minutes10
minutesIngredients
For the Chicken:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
1 tablespoon minced chili garlic
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (gluten-free)
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
1 teaspoon sriracha
½ tablespoon garlic olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
½ teaspoon brown sugar
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Directions
- Prep the Chicken: Slice the chicken thighs into 2-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large bowl.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix thoroughly, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space at both ends of each skewer for easier handling.
- Air Fry the Skewers: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the skewers and brush them with additional marinade.
- Finish Cooking: Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F. For extra crispy edges, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the air fryer and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with your favorite sides like vegetables, fried rice, or noodle stir-fry.
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