What To Know
- This delectable dish combines succulent chicken skewers, marinated in a symphony of Mediterranean flavors, with a crisp and golden exterior that will leave you craving more.
- Create a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes.
- With its succulent chicken, crisp vegetables, and vibrant flavors, this chicken souvlaki recipe air fryer is a delightful and healthier take on a classic Greek dish.
Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of Greece with our tantalizing chicken souvlaki recipe, crafted to perfection in the convenience of your air fryer. This delectable dish combines succulent chicken skewers, marinated in a symphony of Mediterranean flavors, with a crisp and golden exterior that will leave you craving more. Prepare to indulge in a healthier alternative to traditional souvlaki, without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Thread the chicken pieces, red onion, green bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating ingredients for a colorful presentation.
3. Air Fry the Souvlaki:
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time.
- Continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 2-3 minutes more.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the cooked souvlaki skewers to a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serve with your favorite sides, such as tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad.
Tips:
- For a crispy exterior and tender interior, ensure the chicken pieces are not too thick. Cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the souvlaki skewers in batches to prevent overcrowding.
- Keep an eye on the skewers during cooking to ensure they don’t overcook. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy.
- Experiment with different marinades to create unique flavor combinations. Try using a combination of herbs, spices, and citrus for a tantalizing taste.
Variations:
- Vegetable Souvlaki: Create a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes.
- Lamb Souvlaki: Substitute the chicken with lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor. Follow the same marinade and cooking instructions.
- Souvlaki Pita Pockets: Stuff warm pita pockets with souvlaki skewers, tzatziki sauce, and your favorite toppings for a quick and satisfying meal.
Health Benefits:
- Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil, a key ingredient in the marinade, is rich in monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health.
- Antioxidants: The herbs and spices used in the marinade, such as oregano and thyme, contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
- Low-Calorie Alternative: Air frying the souvlaki skewers reduces the need for additional oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried options.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Tzatziki Sauce: This classic Greek yogurt sauce, made with cucumber, garlic, and dill, is the perfect accompaniment to souvlaki.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread provides a soft and fluffy base for souvlaki skewers, allowing you to create delicious wraps or sandwiches.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad, featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese, complements the flavors of the souvlaki skewers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and potatoes, add a colorful and nutritious side to your souvlaki meal.
Final Note:
With its succulent chicken, crisp vegetables, and vibrant flavors, this chicken souvlaki recipe air fryer is a delightful and healthier take on a classic Greek dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Experiment with different marinades and sides to create your own unique souvlaki experience.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Ensure it is thawed completely before marinating and skewering.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Q: Can I use bamboo skewers instead of wooden skewers?
A: Yes, you can use bamboo skewers. Just make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using, to prevent them from burning.
