If you’re on the hunt for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that brings a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your kitchen, look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers. Tender chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices and cooked to perfection in your air fryer create a dish that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a creamy yogurt sauce, fresh veggies, or warm pita bread, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. The marinade infuses the chicken with a symphony of flavors that appeal to both adventurous eaters and those who prefer something familiar. The crispy exterior and juicy interior of the chicken thighs make each bite a delight. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and cook, making them a fantastic choice for entertaining or a family dinner. You can customize the skewers with your favorite vegetables or serve them with various dipping sauces, ensuring there’s something for everyone!
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a detailed shopping list for your Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers:
- Chicken Thighs: 8 pieces, boneless and skinless for the best flavor and texture.
- Spices: Ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cardamom, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, turmeric, and cayenne pepper for a warm, aromatic marinade.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to enhance the flavor profile.
- Plain Yogurt: 1/2 cup for the marinade and 1 cup for the dipping sauce.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons to help the spices adhere to the chicken.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon for a zingy finish.
Gear Checklist
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Air Fryer: The star of the show that will give you crispy, tender chicken without the use of excess oil.
- Skewers: Wooden or metal, these will hold your chicken and veggies together. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining your marinade ingredients.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to the safe temperature of 165°F.
- Serving Platter: To present your beautiful skewers.
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Add in 1/2 cup of plain yogurt and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until you have a smooth marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the 8 chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss the chicken pieces until they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a zip-top bag, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for even more flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful crisp on your chicken skewers.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
Step 6: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
While the skewers are cooking, prepare your dipping sauce by mixing 1 cup of plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the air fryer and serve them hot with the yogurt sauce on the side. Pair with pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
What to Use Instead
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some alternatives:
- Chicken: You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, though they may not be as juicy.
- Yogurt: Use a dairy-free yogurt if you want a vegan option.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil or any neutral oil works well as a substitute.
- Spices: If you don’t have all the spices, a pre-made shawarma spice blend can be used instead.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Be sure to preheat your air fryer; this helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- If you prefer a bit more heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
These Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers are perfect for meal prep! You can freeze the marinated chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the cooking instructions as usual. They make for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that they may not be as juicy as thighs, so watch them closely while cooking to avoid drying out.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavor, but for the best results, marinate overnight in the fridge.
Can I cook these skewers on a grill instead?
Absolutely! You can grill the skewers over medium heat. Just be sure to soak wooden skewers beforehand to prevent burning.
What can I serve with the Chicken Shawarma Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with pita bread, a fresh salad, or rice. You can also serve them with tzatziki or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Cook This Next
That’s a Wrap
With these Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers, you can enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right at home. They’re easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these skewers will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, head to the kitchen, and indulge in the delightful flavor of homemade shawarma!
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Skewers
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 8 pieces Chicken Thighs boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/2 cup Plain Yogurt for the marinade
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice for a zingy finish
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt for dipping sauce
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Marinade Preparation:
- In a mixing bowl, combine spices, garlic, yogurt, and olive oil to create a smooth marinade.
Chicken Preparation:
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and marinate in the mixture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking:
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Assemble chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space for even cooking.
- Cook skewers in air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serving:
- Prepare dipping sauce by mixing yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Serve skewers hot with sauce.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Skewers
- Mixing Bowl
- Meat thermometer
- Serving Platter
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
- Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
