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

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

625.0kcal (31.25%)

Protein

37.5g (75%)

Carbs

37.5g (13.64%)

Sugars

2.5g (5%)

Healthy Fat

35.1g

Unhealthy Fat

6.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

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. How do I make Mediterranean air-fried chicken with roasted vegetables?

    To make Mediterranean air-fried chicken with roasted vegetables, start by marinating chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Air fry the chicken at 400°F for 6 minutes on each side. Meanwhile, roast chopped red onion, bell peppers, and zucchini in the oven at 400°F for about 30 minutes. Serve the chicken and vegetables over couscous, drizzled with a tangy lemon vinaigrette.

  2. Can I make this Mediterranean chicken recipe gluten-free?

    Yes, you can easily make this Mediterranean air-fried chicken recipe gluten-free by substituting the couscous with rice. Simply follow the cooking instructions for rice instead of couscous, and enjoy a delicious gluten-free meal.

  3. What are some good storage tips for leftover Mediterranean air-fried chicken and vegetables?

    To store leftover Mediterranean air-fried chicken and roasted vegetables, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and vegetables separately, which can last up to 3 months.

  4. What can I substitute for feta cheese in this Mediterranean chicken dish?

    If you're looking for a substitute for feta cheese in the Mediterranean air-fried chicken recipe, you can use crumbled goat cheese, ricotta, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you're following a vegan diet. Each option will provide a different flavor profile while still complementing the dish.

  5. What side dishes pair well with Mediterranean air-fried chicken?

    Mediterranean air-fried chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, or a side of roasted potatoes. You can also add a light cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

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Abigail Zysk

(@poultryraptor)

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