Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made with marinated pieces of chicken that are grilled to perfection, often served with pita bread, vegetables, or a tangy tzatziki sauce.
Traditionally cooked on skewers, this flavorful dish can now be made even easier with the help of an air fryer, bringing the crispy, juicy texture of grilled chicken to your kitchen without the need for a barbecue.
In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki in just a few simple steps, giving you a delicious and healthy meal with minimal effort.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a tasty addition to your meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress.
What is Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken Souvlaki is a quintessential Greek dish consisting of bite-sized pieces of marinated chicken that are skewered and grilled.
The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices, including oregano, garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
Souvlaki is often served with pita bread, rice, or a refreshing Greek salad, and topped with tzatziki sauce for added creaminess.
While souvlaki can be made with different meats like pork, lamb, or beef, chicken souvlaki is a lighter and healthier version that remains just as flavorful.
The marination process ensures that the chicken is tender, juicy, and bursting with the characteristic flavors of Greece.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Souvlaki?
Using an air fryer to prepare Chicken Souvlaki offers several advantages. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to achieve that signature crispy texture, similar to grilling, without the need for a BBQ or stove. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, making it perfectly cooked with a golden-brown, crispy exterior and juicy, tender inside.
Additionally, the air fryer is much faster than traditional grilling and requires minimal oil, making it a healthier cooking method. You can enjoy the same great taste of Chicken Souvlaki while cutting down on excess calories and cleanup time.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki
To make Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast or Thighs – Choose boneless, skinless chicken for best results.
- Olive Oil – For marinating the chicken and adding richness.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic provides a savory kick to the marinade.
- Lemon Juice – For a tangy citrus note that balances the savory flavors.
- Dried Oregano – A key herb that brings the distinct flavor of Greek cuisine.
- Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy depth to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper – To season the chicken and enhance the overall flavor.
These simple ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering souvlaki that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors and perfect for air frying.
How to Make Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki – Step by Step
Making Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Follow this guide to create a delicious meal that’s packed with Greek flavors.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they’re uniform in size. This helps the pieces cook evenly in the air fryer. You can remove any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well to form a marinade. This is where the chicken will absorb all the wonderful flavors that give the souvlaki its signature taste.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them until each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though for best results, marinate for a few hours to let the flavors fully develop.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a crispy texture as soon as it hits the hot air fryer basket.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, transfer it to the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is golden and crispy on the outside, yet juicy on the inside, remove it from the air fryer. Serve it on a plate with your favorite sides like pita bread, Greek salad, or a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your homemade Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki!
Tips for Perfect Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki
To ensure your Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
Tip 1: Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Although chicken breasts are a leaner option, chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when cooked in the air fryer. If you prefer a more tender, flavorful chicken, consider using thighs.
Tip 2: Don’t Skip the Marinating Time
The marinade is essential for infusing the chicken with flavor. While you can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, longer marination (up to 4 hours) will result in a more intense flavor profile.
Tip 3: Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
For the crispiest, most evenly cooked chicken, make sure the chicken pieces are spread out in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, and some pieces may remain undercooked or soggy.
Tip 4: Adjust Cooking Time Based on Chicken Size
If your chicken pieces are larger or smaller than average, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thicker pieces may require a few extra minutes, while smaller pieces may cook faster.
Tip 5: Serve with Traditional Sides
To stay true to the Greek flavors, serve your Chicken Souvlaki with classic sides like warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, and a generous portion of tzatziki sauce. This combination will bring out the full Mediterranean experience.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftover Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki, don’t worry—it stores beautifully and can be enjoyed again later.
Storing Leftovers
Once your chicken souvlaki has cooled to room temperature, place it in an airtight container. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within this timeframe.
Freezing Leftovers
If you want to store your chicken for a longer period, you can freeze it. Simply place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your chicken souvlaki and retain its crispy texture, the air fryer is your best bet. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), then place the chicken back in the basket for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat it in the oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, though it might not be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other meats for this souvlaki recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is for chicken souvlaki, you can use pork, lamb, or beef as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the meat and ensure it’s fully cooked through.
2. Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?
You don’t need to marinate the chicken overnight, but marinating for at least 30 minutes will help infuse the flavors. For even better results, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours to allow the herbs and spices to fully penetrate the meat.
3. Can I make Chicken Souvlaki in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and bake the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture may not be as crispy as the air fryer method, but it will still be delicious.
4. How can I make the chicken extra crispy?
For an extra crispy crust, try spraying the chicken with a small amount of olive oil before air frying. This will help the chicken brown more evenly and create a crispier texture.
5. Can I skip the oregano or use a different herb?
While oregano is traditional and gives the souvlaki its authentic Greek flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil. Keep in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor, but it can still taste great.
Final Thoughts
Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of Greece straight to your home. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something savory, this recipe is a great go-to option.
By using the air fryer, you can achieve that crispy, juicy texture without the hassle of grilling, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or quick meals. So, give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Greek Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki
Equipment
- Air Fryer – 1 unit
- Mixing Bowl – 1 medium
- Measuring spoons (1 set)
- Knife – 1 sharp
- Cutting Board – 1
- Tongs or Spoon – 1 (for tossing chicken in marinade)
- Airtight Container or Plastic Wrap – 1 (for marinating chicken)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Breast or Thighs boneless, skinless
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes (about 1.5 inches). Remove any excess fat if necessary.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for best flavor).
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer). Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Serve: Once the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, remove from the air fryer. Serve with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and your favorite sides.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken for longer (2-4 hours) to deepen the flavor.
- Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: Chicken thighs provide a more tender and juicy result, but breasts are leaner and still delicious.
- Crispier Texture: Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil before air frying for an extra crispy finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a fresh Greek salad, pita, or as part of a Mediterranean platter with hummus and tabbouleh.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer for the best crispy texture.
