Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using).
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Step 2: Skewer and Cook the Chicken
- Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto metal or wooden skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning in the air fryer.
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the air fryer and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Prepare the Pitas: While the chicken is cooking, warm your pita bread or flatbreads in the air fryer or on a stovetop pan for a few minutes.
- Assemble the Souvlaki: Serve the chicken skewers with the warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables. You can either leave the chicken on the skewers for serving or remove it and place it in the pita for a wrap.
- Optional Toppings: Add crumbled feta cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. For best results, try marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Skewer Size: If your air fryer is small, use shorter skewers or cut the wooden skewers in half to fit them inside the basket.
- Customize Your Wrap: Feel free to add other toppings like roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Tzatziki: This creamy, garlicky yogurt sauce is a must with souvlaki! You can either make your own with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, or use store-bought.
- Greek Salad: A traditional Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese is a perfect side for this meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: For a more substantial meal, serve the chicken souvlaki with a side of crispy roasted Greek potatoes seasoned with lemon, garlic, and oregano.
Why This Recipe Will Keep Visitors Engaged
This Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe isn’t just about a quick meal—it’s about experiencing the flavors of the Mediterranean in a way that feels both exotic and comforting. The story of slow marination and the simplicity of the air fryer cooking process, combined with vibrant, fresh toppings, gives readers a full culinary journey. From juicy, tender chicken to warm pita bread and a medley of fresh, zesty ingredients, this meal offers a complete sensory experience that will captivate and inspire readers to stay for more tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Souvlaki is the perfect dish for anyone craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe makes Mediterranean cooking accessible to everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook. Serve it up with warm pita and a generous helping of tzatziki, and you’ve got a meal that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.