How Long to Cook Chicken Skewers (Kabobs)
Chicken breast or thigh cubes on skewers, marinated and grilled, baked, or broiled.
The Short Answer
Chicken breast or thigh cubes on skewers, marinated and grilled, baked, or broiled. Cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
Cooking Methods
🔥 Oven
Temperature: 425°F
Time: 15–20 minutes
Place on a foil-lined baking sheet or broiler pan. Broil for the last 2 minutes for char marks. Turn once halfway.
Rest: 3 minutes
✈️ Air Fryer
Temperature: 400°F
Time: 10–12 minutes
Place skewers in the basket leaving space between. Turn halfway. May need to cook in batches. Metal skewers work best in air fryers.
Rest: 3 minutes
🔥 Grill
Temperature: 400°F
Time: 10–14 minutes
Medium-high direct heat. Turn every 3-4 minutes for even browning. Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes first to prevent burning.
Rest: 3 minutes
Cut chicken pieces to uniform size (about 1.5 inches) so they cook evenly. The biggest skewer mistake is mixing sizes: small pieces char while large pieces stay raw in the center. Also, leave a small gap between pieces on the skewer so heat circulates around each one.
Frequently Asked Questions
10-14 minutes over medium-high heat, turning every 3-4 minutes. Cut pieces to 1.5 inches for even cooking. Check with a thermometer; the chicken should reach 165 degrees F.
Yes, for at least 30 minutes in water before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire. Metal skewers skip this step entirely and are reusable.
Thigh meat is more forgiving because the higher fat content keeps it moist even if slightly overcooked. Breast works but requires more careful temperature monitoring to avoid drying out.
The Bottom Line
Chicken Skewers (Kabobs) cooking times vary by method and thickness. Always verify doneness with a thermometer reading 165 degrees F. The times above are guidelines; your specific results depend on the size and starting temperature of your food.