Easy Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki – Ready in 20 Minutes
Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic Mediterranean herbs, cooked to perfection in your air fryer! This air fryer chicken souvlaki brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your kitchen. Did you know that souvlaki dates back to ancient Greece, where it was enjoyed by soldiers?
This modern twist combines traditional Greek flavors with the convenience of air frying, creating a healthy, family-friendly meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Unlike our popular air fryer chicken wings, this recipe offers a more sophisticated flavor profile that will transport your taste buds straight to the Greek islands.
What is Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki?
Ever wondered why they call it souvlaki? This beloved Greek dish literally means “little skewer” – isn’t that adorable? Legend has it that Greek taverna owners started threading marinated meat onto skewers to make eating easier for their hungry customers.
As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and souvlaki has been winning hearts for centuries! Ready to bring this Mediterranean magic to your dinner table?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki:
This air fryer chicken souvlaki is a game-changer for busy weeknights. The chicken emerges incredibly tender and juicy, with that perfect golden-brown exterior that makes your mouth water. Making souvlaki at home saves you tons of money compared to ordering from Greek restaurants – you’ll spend about $3 per serving versus $12-15 at a restaurant!
The star of this dish is the aromatic herb marinade featuring fresh oregano, garlic, and lemon juice that creates an explosion of Mediterranean flavors. The chicken practically melts in your mouth while staying perfectly moist thanks to the air fryer’s circulation. Unlike our air fryer chicken thighs recipe, this souvlaki offers a lighter, more refreshing taste that’s perfect for any season.
The best part? You can have this restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes. Fire up that air fryer and get ready to impress your family with this authentic Greek favorite!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki:
Quick Overview
This air fryer chicken souvlaki is incredibly simple to make and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The secret lies in the zesty marinade that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with authentic Greek flavors.
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating time) Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes Serves: 4 people
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined. The marinade should have a bright, aromatic smell that screams Mediterranean goodness.
Marinate the Chicken
Cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Prepare the Skewers
Remove chicken from refrigerator 10 minutes before cooking. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for proper air circulation. You should have about 8-10 skewers depending on size.
Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Souvlaki
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a beautiful golden-brown color.
Rest and Serve
Let the cooked souvlaki rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Warm your pita bread in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes if desired.
What to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki With:
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek experience. Try serving it over fluffy Greek rice pilaf or alongside roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions.
For a lighter option, serve the souvlaki over a fresh Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and cucumber. A glass of crisp white wine or a cold Greek beer complements the flavors perfectly. Don’t forget some warm pita chips and hummus as appetizers!
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Chicken Souvlaki:
Use the Right Cut of Chicken
Chicken thighs work best for souvlaki because they stay juicier than chicken breasts. If using chicken breasts, don’t overcook them as they can become dry quickly.
Don’t Skip the Marinating Time
Allow at least 30 minutes for marinating, but overnight is even better. The acids in the lemon juice help tenderize the meat while the herbs infuse deep flavor.
Soak Your Skewers
Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using. This prevents them from burning in the air fryer.
Avoid Overcrowding
Cook the skewers in batches if necessary. Proper air circulation is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior.
Check Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees food safety while maintaining juiciness.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Store leftover air fryer chicken souvlaki in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Remove the chicken from the skewers before storing to save space and make reheating easier.
To reheat, place the chicken in your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the air fryer maintains better texture.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken (removed from skewers) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The chicken maintains its flavor beautifully when frozen, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 590mg |
Based on 4 servings using chicken thighs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 10-12 minutes and watch carefully to prevent overcooking. Chicken breasts cook faster and can become dry if overcooked.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Minimum 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor. You can marinate overnight for the best results.
Can I make souvlaki without skewers?
Absolutely! Cut the chicken into strips and cook directly in the air fryer basket. Cooking time remains the same.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work perfectly fine. Use about half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh ones.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! Marinate the chicken, then freeze in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before cooking.
What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook and use chicken thighs if possible. They have more fat content and stay juicier than breasts.
Recipe Variations and Creative Ideas
Transform your air fryer chicken souvlaki into different meals throughout the week. Try making souvlaki bowls with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. You can also chop the cooked chicken and use it in grain bowls, salads, or wraps.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Kids love these served as “chicken lollipops” – just thread larger pieces on shorter skewers for easy handling.
Create a Mediterranean feast by pairing your souvlaki with other Greek favorites like spanakopita, Greek lemon potatoes, or a traditional village salad. The possibilities are endless!
The Secret to Restaurant-Quality Souvlaki at Home
The magic of authentic souvlaki lies in its simplicity. Greek cooks have been perfecting this recipe for generations, and the key is using quality ingredients and not overthinking the process. Fresh oregano, good olive oil, and properly marinated chicken create flavors that rival any Greek taverna.
Your air fryer becomes the perfect tool for achieving that ideal texture – crispy outside, tender inside – without the need for an outdoor grill. This makes souvlaki accessible year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Families
This air fryer chicken souvlaki is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. Marinate your chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then thread onto skewers and store in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can even assemble complete meal prep containers with the cooked souvlaki, fresh vegetables, and pita bread.
For busy weeknight dinners, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for later. Having pre-marinated chicken souvlaki in your freezer means a delicious Mediterranean meal is always within reach.
Final Thoughts
This air fryer chicken souvlaki proves that you don’t need a Greek grandmother or expensive restaurant visit to enjoy authentic Mediterranean flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can create a meal that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
The combination of aromatic herbs, tender chicken, and the convenience of air frying makes this recipe a true winner for any home cook. Whether you’re feeding hungry teenagers or impressing dinner guests, this souvlaki delivers every single time.
So grab your skewers, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dining table. Your family will be asking for this recipe on repeat – and you’ll be happy to oblige because it’s just that easy and delicious!
