Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki: Flavorful and Juicy
Introduction
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Mediterranean dish known for its flavorful marinated chicken skewers. Making these succulent skewers in the air fryer ensures they’re cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki that’s bursting with Greek flavors and perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients you’ll need for Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- In a bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to marinate and absorb the flavors.
2. Preheat Your Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a lovely sear on the chicken skewers.
3. Assemble the Skewers
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent them from burning.
4. Air Fry the Chicken Souvlaki
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a brush of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
- Air fry the chicken souvlaki at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and has a nicely browned exterior.
5. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce (Optional)
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the Tzatziki sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki on pita bread or flatbreads, accompanied by sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of Tzatziki sauce (if desired).
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine with its flavorful marinated chicken and creamy Tzatziki sauce. With the convenience of the air fryer, you can enjoy this classic Mediterranean favorite in the comfort of your own home.
So, preheat your air fryer, thread those skewers, and get ready to savor the delicious taste of Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!