Mediterranean Chicken Recipe

This Mediterranean-inspired chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Large bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring spoons

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts, sliced bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.
  3. Place the marinated chicken and vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook in batches.
  4. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Once cooked, remove the chicken and vegetables from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean-inspired chicken!

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
  • Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) enhances the flavor.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

Recipe Variations

  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  • Lemon Herb: Substitute the dried herbs with fresh lemon slices and chopped fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
  • Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic in the marinade for a more intense garlic flavor.
  • Vegetable Medley: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion to the air fryer during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a complete meal.