Mediterranean Air-Fried Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Vinaigrette

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Abigail Zysk (@poultryraptor)

A flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring air-fried chicken thighs and roasted vegetables, served over couscous with a tangy lemon vinaigrette.

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
1hr 5min
Mediterranean Air-Fried Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Vinaigrette recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of chicken with vegetables and couscous)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2lb
    chicken thighs
  • 1
    red onion
  • 1
    bell pepper
  • 1
    zucchini
  • 1cup
    of couscous (if gluten-free sub rice)

Marinade

  • 4tbsp
    olive oil
  • 2piece
    lemon zest
  • 2piece
    lemon juice
  • 4clove
    garlic
  • 4tbsp
    paprika
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1tsp
    pepper
  • 1/2tsp
    red pepper flakes

Dressing

  • 1/3cup
    apple cider vinegar
  • 2tbsp
    olive oil
  • 1piece
    roasted lemon juice
  • 1dash
    salt
  • 1dash
    pepper

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh Parsley
  • Feta Cheese

How to make Mediterranean Air-Fried Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Vinaigrette

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. Cut the red onion, bell peppers, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces.

    Step 1.1: Cut the red onion, bell peppers, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces

Marinating

  1. Mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to make the marinade.

  2. Divide the marinade in half. Use one half to marinate the chicken thighs and the other half for the vegetables.

    Step 2.1: Divide the marinade in half
    Step 2.2: Divide the marinade in half

Cooking

  1. Air fry the marinated chicken thighs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 minutes on each side.

  2. Roast the marinated vegetables and lemon in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes. It doesn't have to be 30 minutes; if they don't look done enough, cook longer. It is all dependent on the pan size and how tightly packed the veggies are together.

    Step 3.1: Roast the marinated vegetables and lemon in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes
  3. Cook couscous per package instructions. This usually includes toasting in a pan with olive oil for a minute or two and then adding boiling water. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 15-20 minutes until water is absorbed.

    Step 3.1: Cook couscous per package instructions

Make Vinaigrette

  1. Once veggies are done squeeze out the roasted lemon and mix with the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste if necessary. I love vinegar which is why there is more vinegar than oil. vinegarette

    Step 4.1: Once veggies are done squeeze out the roasted lemon and mix with the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper

Assemble your bowl

  1. Add couscous to a bowl, and top with chicken and vegetables. Pour over vinaigrette. Top with feta cheese and parsley if desired!

  2. Add couscous to a bowl

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade for maximum flavor.

  2. Roasting the lemon enhances its flavor, making the vinaigrette more aromatic.

  3. You can cook the chicken in the pan with the veggies. I have found that this increases cooking time, and I personally think it does, but it would be a fine alternative if you don't have an air fryer.

FAQS

  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

    Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

  2. What vegetables can I use if I don't have red onion, bell pepper, or zucchini?

    Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

  3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

    To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the couscous with rice or another gluten-free grain of your choice.

  4. What can I use instead of feta cheese?

    If you're looking for a substitute for feta cheese, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.

  5. Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

    Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to marinate the chicken and vegetables before cooking for the best flavor.

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Abigail Zysk

(@poultryraptor)

Hi, I love food and I'm all about lowering my risk of colorectal cancer by following a pollotarian diet and avoiding processed foods. Check out...

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