Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki: A Healthy Recipe Ready in 22 Minutes

Air fryer chicken souvlaki is a great choice for a healthy chicken recipe, effortlessly combining flavor with convenience. Simply marinate your chicken, skewer it, and air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes. The process is straightforward and easy to follow, making a delicious and healthy meal everyone will love.

This dish stands out in Greek cuisine for its delightful mix of flavors and has gained popularity worldwide. The air fryer method not only keeps the chicken souvlaki juicy but also makes it a healthy chicken recipe by reducing the amount of oil needed. Let’s discuss why this cooking method will become your new favorite way to prepare Greek chicken souvlaki.

What is Souvlaki?

Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer.

Souvlaki, a cornerstone of Greek cuisine, features marinated meat, typically pork, chicken, beef, or lamb, grilled on skewers. Served with pita bread, vegetables, and sauces like tzatziki, it’s cherished for its smoky flavor and versatility, making it a beloved choice in street food and formal dining alike.

Why Choose Air Fryer?

Choosing to make chicken souvlaki in the air fryer brings several benefits that I personally love:

• Health benefits: Cooking with an air fryer reduces the oil amount drastically, making homemade souvlaki a healthier option.
• Convenience: Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food evenly, saving time without compromising on taste.
• Flavor: The air circulation in the fryer locks in marinade flavors, enhancing the healthy Greek cuisine experience.

By using an air fryer, you’re not just cooking; you’re ensuring a healthier, tastier, and more convenient meal preparation. Honestly, it’s a straightforward way to enjoy delicious air fryer benefits.

Essential Equipment

To make this recipe a success, you’ll need a few key items:

• Air fryer 5.8qt: This size is perfect for cooking souvlaki skewers evenly.
• Air fryer accessories: Essential for the recipe are bamboo skewers for the souvlaki and perforated parchment paper to keep your air fryer clean without hindering the airflow.

These tools not only make cooking easier but also enhance the final dish’s flavor and texture.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

For the best chicken souvlaki, here are the ingredients you’ll need, along with measurements:

• 1 lb Organic chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp Olive oil for marinating
• 1 tbsp Oregano, preferably fresh but dried works too
• 2 tsp Lemon juice for that zestful tang
• 1 tsp Garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves for a flavor kick
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp Paprika for a bit of spice

For variations and substitutions:

• Dietary substitutions: For a gluten-free option, ensure all spices and marinades are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with chunks of firm tofu or tempeh.
• Fresh herbs: Feel free to add or substitute oregano with thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

This detailed breakdown ensures that you can customize the chicken souvlaki ingredients to your taste and dietary needs, using vibrant Mediterranean spices and fresh herbs for an authentic experience.

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki in Air Fryer

Follow these steps to ensure your chicken souvlaki turns out perfectly every time:

Marinade Preparation: In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of oregano, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves), 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. This blend of spices and lemon juice is key for a flavorful marinade.

Marinating the Chicken: Add 1 lb of cubed chicken thighs to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though I recommend marinating for a few hours if you have the time. Marination is key for taste infusion.

Skewering: Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto bamboo skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning. This keeps the chicken in place during cooking.

Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Cook skewers for 12 mins, turning halfway. Check doneness at 10 mins, aiming for a golden finish and internal temp of 165°F.

Serve: Present with tzatziki, lemon wedges, and pita. Add a Greek salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. Rest skewers briefly before serving to enhance juiciness.

Note: Pre-soak skewers to prevent burning. Ensure chicken’s fully cooked to 165°F for safety. Enjoy your flavorful, healthy souvlaki straight from the air fryer!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

For that ultimate Greek chicken souvlaki, here are some tips to ensure you nail the flavor and texture every time:

• Marinating chicken for souvlaki: A minimum of 30 minutes is good, but overnight in the fridge is best. This longer marination enhances the depth of flavor.
• Air frying techniques: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air flow is crucial for even cooking and crispiness. Flip halfway through for an even golden-brown exterior.
• Moisture retention: Cooking at the right temperature (400°F) and time (10-12 mins) ensures the chicken stays juicy. Overcooking can dry it out.
• Skewer preparation: Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
• Internal temperature: Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked yet remains tender.

Variations of Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki variations offer exciting ways to enjoy this dish, catering to different tastes and dietary needs:

• Meat options: Swap chicken with lamb, pork, or beef for a different twist. Each meat brings a unique flavor.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Souvlaki: Use tofu or tempeh as a meat substitute. Marinate and cook the same way to enjoy a plant-based version.
• Vegetable skewers: Add bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for added nutrition and color. It’s a great way to make the meal more substantial.
• Low-carb options: Serve with a side of Greek salad instead of pita bread for those watching their carb intake.
• Meal customization: Offering a variety of sides like tzatziki, hummus, and different types of salads allows everyone to customize their plate.

By following these tips and exploring variations, you can enjoy homemade souvlaki that’s tailored to your liking while mastering cooking with an air fryer.

FAQs about Air Fryer Cooking Instructions

What to Serve with Chicken Souvlaki

When it comes to chicken souvlaki side dishes, you have a plethora of both traditional and modern options to round out your meal. For a true Mediterranean diet experience, consider these sides:

• Tzatziki sauce is a must-have for its creamy, garlicky flavor that complements the souvlaki perfectly.
• Warm pita bread serves as the perfect vehicle for the chicken and sauce.
• A crisp Greek salad adds freshness and a pop of color to your plate.
• Roasted vegetables or a rice pilaf can provide a hearty, healthy Greek dish option to the meal.

These sides not only enhance the flavors of your chicken souvlaki recipe but also ensure a balanced, satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

For storing and reheating air fried chicken souvlaki, follow these guidelines to maintain the best quality:

• Cool leftovers before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or until heated through, to preserve the healthy dinner option‘s texture and flavor.

These simple storage instructions ensure your souvlaki remains as delicious as when first made.

Final Words for Chicken Souvlaki Lovers

This Chicken souvlaki recipe is a delightful and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of Greek cuisine at home. It perfectly blends the ease of air frying with the rich flavors of Greek cuisine, making it a standout among healthy Greek dishes.

By using the air fryer, you can achieve juicy, flavorful chicken skewers with minimal oil and effort.

This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great option for those following a Mediterranean diet or seeking healthier alternatives.

I encourage you to try and experience the joy of authentic Greek flavors in your own kitchen. Feel free to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below. Enjoy!

More Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Recipes, You’ll Love

• Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
• Trader Joe’s Teriyaki Chicken
• Trader Joe’s Spatchcock Chicken
• Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Wings
• Trader Joe’s Breaded Chicken Tenderloin Breasts Air Fryer

See all in at KitGiz for Air Fryer recipes.

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