Packaged Teriyaki Chicken Breast Skewers In The Air Fryer

Craving delicious teriyaki chicken but short on time? Use store-bought packaged marinated chicken skewers! These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the air fryer are a game-changer! Ready in just 15 minutes, they offer all the juicy, flavorful goodness of grilled chicken without the fuss. Perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty snack, these skewers are sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the Air Fryer

• Quick and Easy: These skewers are ready in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a quick snack.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The teriyaki marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, savory taste that is both sweet and tangy, satisfying your cravings.
• Healthier Option: Cooking in the air fryer uses less oil, resulting in a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Perfectly Cooked Every Time: The air fryer ensures even cooking, giving the chicken a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Minimal Cleanup: No messy grill or pan to scrub – just pop the air fryer basket in the dishwasher, and you’re done!

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the Air Fryer

• Pre-seasoned, pre-marinated teriyaki chicken skewers – These skewers come ready with a delicious teriyaki marinade, saving you time and effort in preparation.

See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the Air Fryer

• Air Fryer – The star of the show! It cooks the chicken skewers quickly and evenly, giving them a grilled look without an outdoor grill.
• Instant-Read Thermometer – Ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F.
• Tongs – Helps you safely flip and remove the skewers from the air fryer without burning your hands.

How To Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the Air Fryer

• Begin by opening the package of pre-marinated teriyaki chicken skewers.
• Place the chicken skewers in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
• Slide the air fryer basket into the air fryer and set it to 400°F.
• Cook the skewers for about 13 minutes.
• At the halfway mark (around 6-7 minutes), carefully remove the basket and use tongs to flip each skewer to ensure even cooking.
• Return the basket to the air fryer and let the cooking continue.
• Once the timer goes off, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F.
• If the chicken has not reached the correct temperature, return the skewers to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes.
• When fully cooked, remove the skewers carefully from the air fryer using tongs or by holding the wooden sticks.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce.
• Pair them with a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add a bit of crunch and a pop of color.
• For a low-carb option, serve the skewers alongside a fresh green salad or cauliflower rice.
• Enjoy them as a party appetizer by arranging the skewers on a platter with a small bowl of extra teriyaki sauce for dipping. Check out more party appetizer ideas like Quick Bacon Wrapped Pineapple Bites for Entertaining, Sweet and Savory Bacon Wrapped Dates, and Delicious Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers.

Tips For Success

• Ensure Proper Air Circulation: Arrange the chicken skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding the basket can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. If you have a lot of skewers, cook them in batches to ensure they all come out perfectly.
• Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: To make sure your chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the skewers. The chicken should reach at least 165°F for safe consumption. This tool is especially useful if your chicken pieces are uneven in size.
• Flip the Skewers Midway: Flipping the chicken skewers halfway through cooking ensures that both sides get that delicious, crispy finish. Use tongs or a fork to gently turn them over.
• Adjust Cooking Time Based on Your Air Fryer: Air fryers can vary in cooking power. If your skewers look like they’re cooking too quickly or slowly, adjust the cooking time accordingly. It might take a bit of experimenting to find the perfect time for your specific air fryer model.
• Keep an Eye on Smaller Pieces: If the chicken pieces on the skewers are different sizes, some might cook faster than others. Remove any smaller pieces that are done earlier and continue cooking the larger ones.
• Serve Immediately for Best Texture: For the crispiest and juiciest results, serve the skewers hot, right out of the air fryer. The longer they sit, the more the exterior may soften, and they might lose that perfect grilled look.
• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Variations And Substitutions

• Switch Up the Marinade: If you’re not a fan of teriyaki, try using a different pre-marinated chicken option. Garlic herb, lemon pepper, or even barbecue flavors would work well in the air fryer. You can also make your own marinade using soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger for a homemade teriyaki twist.
• Use Different Proteins: This recipe works just as well with other proteins like beef, pork, or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since different proteins have different cook times. For example, shrimp cooks much faster than chicken, so keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
• Add Vegetables: For a more colorful and nutritious meal, thread some vegetables onto the skewers along with the chicken. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are great options that pair well with teriyaki flavors. Just make sure to cut them into pieces that cook at the same rate as the chicken.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure that your teriyaki marinade is gluten-free, as many store-bought marinades contain soy sauce, which may have gluten. Look for a gluten-free label or make your own marinade using tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
• Low-Sodium Option: To reduce the sodium content, choose a low-sodium teriyaki marinade or make your own. This allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe while still enjoying that rich, savory flavor.
• Vegetarian Variation: Use firm tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu or tempeh in teriyaki sauce, and then air fry using the same method. Adjust the cooking time as needed since plant-based proteins may cook faster than chicken.
• Add Extra Spice: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with Sriracha or hot sauce before serving. This will add a kick that complements the sweet and savory teriyaki flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the cooked chicken skewers to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you’d like to store them for longer, place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, wrap each skewer in parchment paper before placing them in the bag to prevent sticking.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain the original texture, keeping the chicken juicy and the outside slightly crisp.
• Reheating in the Oven: Alternatively, you can reheat the skewers in an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the skewers on a baking sheet, and heat for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is also an option. Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on high in 30-second intervals until hot. Note that this method may result in a softer texture compared to reheating in the air fryer or oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh chicken breast for this recipe instead of pre-marinated skewers?

Yes, you can use fresh chicken breast. Simply cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, marinate them in your favorite teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor), then follow the cooking instructions in the recipe.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can cook these chicken skewers in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning in the air fryer?

Wooden skewers can sometimes burn in high heat. To prevent this, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers, which are reusable and won’t burn.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time. Assemble them and marinate them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, follow the air fryer instructions. You can also cook them ahead and reheat them as needed.

What sides go well with teriyaki chicken skewers?

Teriyaki chicken skewers pair well with a variety of sides. Try serving them with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, consider cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way to ensure chicken is fully cooked is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read at least 165°F. This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat and retains its juicy texture.

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