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Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki – Juicy, Fast, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness), cut into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional but adds warmth)
  • 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • 1 small red onion, cut into thick slices or wedges
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional, for serving or skewering)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if your air fryer basket fits them; optional)
  • Pita bread, tzatziki, cucumber, and tomatoes for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the marinade: In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours. Overnight is great for maximum flavor.
  3. Soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps with browning.
  5. Skewer (optional): Thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with onion pieces. If you’re not using skewers, just cook the pieces directly in the basket.
  6. Arrange in the basket: Lightly oil the basket or use a perforated parchment liner. Lay chicken in a single layer with a little space between pieces or skewers.
  7. Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flip, then cook another 6–8 minutes. Chicken is done when edges are browned and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest and garnish: Let the chicken rest 3 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon.
  9. Serve: Warm pita, tzatziki, sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and extra red onion make a perfect plate. Add a simple Greek salad or lemony rice if you want a fuller meal.