As I took my first bite of this Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki, it felt like a mini vacation to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. This quick and easy recipe brings the irresistible taste of Mediterranean cuisine right to your dinner table in just 20 minutes! What I love most about this dish is that it not only delivers tender, juicy chicken skewers but also fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Plus, with the air fryer, you get that delightful crispiness without the fuss of traditional grilling. Imagine serving these fragrant souvlaki with fresh vegetables and a cooling tzatziki sauce—it's a win-win for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike. Are you ready to transport your taste buds on a Greek adventure?
Why is this Greek Chicken Souvlaki a Must-Try?
Quick Cooking: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Each skewer boasts a mouthwatering blend of Mediterranean spices and juicy chicken.
Low-Carb Friendly: This recipe fits seamlessly into keto diets, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
Versatile Ingredients: Substitute chicken with pork or lamb, or add veggies for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for entertaining, serve these with tzatziki to impress your guests! If you're looking for more easy, healthy recipes, check out my delightful air fryer egg bites that are just as quick and satisfying!
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Olive Oil – Enhances juiciness and flavor absorption; substitute with avocado oil if desired.
- Mediterranean Style Oregano – Adds herby flavor; you can use Italian oregano as an alternative.
- Garlic Powder – Provides aromatic goodness; feel free to replace it with 4 cloves of crushed fresh garlic for more intensity.
- Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; use kosher salt for better texture.
- Paprika – Contributes subtle sweetness and a vibrant color.
- White Pepper – Adds a mild heat without overpowering the dish.
- Black Pepper – Increases complexity in seasoning.
- Cayenne Pepper – Offers a touch of spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Lemon Juice – Provides brightness and tenderness; fresh lemon juice is preferable for the best flavor.
For the Chicken
- Chicken (Boneless skinless thighs or breasts) – The main protein source; thighs provide richer flavor while breasts are leaner.
Skewers
- Bamboo Skewers – Soak in water to prevent burning while air frying; you can also use metal skewers if preferred.
In just a short time, you'll be preparing this irresistible Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe that you can enjoy with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, Mediterranean style oregano, garlic powder, salt, paprika, white pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk until well blended, creating a fragrant marinade. This succulent mix will infuse the chicken with rich Mediterranean flavors, setting the stage for your delicious Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken
Take your boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels, ensuring they're moisture-free for optimal marinating. Cut the chicken into 2-inch bite-sized pieces, which will cook evenly and infuse with the delightful marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they're evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—if time allows, marinate for up to 2 hours or even overnight. This step enhances the flavor of your Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
Step 4: Soak the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, soak your bamboo skewers in water for at least 20 minutes. This crucial step prevents the skewers from burning during the air frying process, allowing your chicken souvlaki to cook perfectly without any char.
Step 5: Assemble the Skewers
Retrieve the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and thread the pieces onto the soaked skewers. Be sure to leave a small space between each piece for even cooking and heat distribution. Aim for 4-5 pieces per skewer to ensure a hearty serving of Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your skewers cook evenly and achieve that delightful crispiness on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside—just what you want for your Greek Chicken Souvlaki!
Step 7: Air Fry the Skewers
Carefully place the chicken skewers in the lined air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Air fry them at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and look golden brown for the perfect texture.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the flavor. Serve your delicious Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki hot, accompanied by fresh vegetables or tzatziki sauce for a delightful meal experience!
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this recipe with delightful twists and tastes!
- Pork or Lamb: Swap chicken for pork tenderloin or lamb for a richer taste and a different texture.
- Vegetable Skewers: Add colorful bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini onto skewers for a burst of flavor and added nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
- Herb-Infused Yogurt: Whip up a tangy Greek yogurt sauce tempered with fresh dill, mint, or parsley for a refreshing dip.
- Whole Wheat Pita: Serve the souvlaki in whole wheat pita for a heartier wrap that's both filling and healthy.
- Mediterranean Bliss: Garnish with feta cheese crumbles and olives to enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired feast bursting with flavors.
- Garlic-Infused Oil: Drizzle garlic-infused olive oil over the cooked skewers for a fragrant and rich flavor enhancement.
- Tzatziki Alternatives: Swap traditional tzatziki with avocado cream or cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free dip that pairs perfectly.
With these variations, you're bound to create tasty memories with every mouthful!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki are fantastic for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor while saving you time on busy weeknights. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the chicken pieces, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and air fry as directed. To maintain quality, be sure to keep the skewers covered and refrigerated until you're ready to cook them; this way, they stay fresh and flavorful. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort and impress your family with these satisfying skewers!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Elevate your meal experience by pairing these vibrant chicken skewers with fresh, delightful sides that complement their Mediterranean flavors.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy dip of yogurt, cucumber, and garlic cools the palate while enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
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Greek Salad: Featuring ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, olives, and feta, this salad adds refreshing elements and a burst of color on your plate.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions provide a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced chicken.
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Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, this rice base allows the flavors of the souvlaki to shine, soaking up any delicious juices.
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Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita is perfect for wrapping around the souvlaki and adding a satisfying texture to each bite.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these potatoes make for a hearty side that will please any crowd.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing citrus drink or herbal iced tea balances the savory flavors and enhances the warm atmosphere of your meal.
Craft a full Mediterranean feast with these pairings and never look back at fast food again!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki
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Marinate Longer: To maximize flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 2 hours or even overnight if possible.
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Use a Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid undercooking or overcooking, leading to dry meat.
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Cut Uniform Pieces: Make sure your chicken pieces are cut evenly at 2 inches to ensure consistent cooking and tenderness in your Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Place the chicken skewers in a single layer within the air fryer basket, allowing hot air to circulate and ensure perfect crispiness.
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Check Your Air Fryer: Different air fryer models may cook differently; keep an eye on your skewers to prevent overcooking, especially if you’re trying a new recipe for the first time.
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Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve your skewers immediately after cooking, pairing them with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce for a delightful taste!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the skewers back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through to maintain that crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the leftovers in wraps or salads for a quick lunch, paired with fresh veggies or a creamy tzatziki sauce!
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe FAQs
How to cook chicken souvlaki skewers in an air fryer?
Absolutely! To cook chicken souvlaki skewers in an air fryer, simply preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Arrange the marinated and skewered chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through to achieve an even golden brown color. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
How long should I cook chicken skewers in the air fryer?
Very! You'll typically cook chicken skewers in the air fryer for 15 minutes at 400°F (204°C). Remember to flip them halfway through the cooking time to maintain even cooking. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
Can you cook kebabs on wooden skewers in an air fryer?
Yes, you can! However, it's essential to soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before use. This prevents them from burning during the air frying process. Once soaked, thread your marinated ingredients and cook as you normally would.
How long do you cook chicken souvlaki skewers?
For chicken souvlaki skewers, air fry at 400°F (204°C) for around 15 minutes. Ensure to monitor the cooking process, especially if you're using a different air fryer model, as cooking times may vary slightly. Flip the skewers halfway through for optimal cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftover Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s great for a quick lunch! If you’d like to freeze it, first lay the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, simply air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain that crispy texture.
What should I consider for allergy-friendly options?
When making Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki, keep in mind any allergies in your household. For gluten sensitivity, ensure your spices and marinade ingredients are gluten-free. If you substitute certain ingredients—like using yogurt dip—make sure to opt for dairy-free options to cater to those who are lactose intolerant. Always double-check labels if you're managing allergies in your kitchen!
Juicy Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe in 20 Minutes
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Bamboo skewers
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
- 2 teaspoons Mediterranean Style Oregano Can use Italian oregano as an alternative.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can replace with 4 cloves of crushed fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Kosher salt recommended for better texture.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- ½ teaspoon White Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to heat preference.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh juice preferred.
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken (Boneless skinless thighs or breasts) Thighs provide richer flavor, breasts are leaner.
Skewers
- 8 pieces Bamboo Skewers Soak in water to prevent burning.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, Mediterranean style oregano, garlic powder, salt, paprika, white pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk until well blended.
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry. Cut into 2-inch bite-sized pieces.
- Place chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, leaving space between pieces.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place chicken skewers in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
