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Air Fryer Greek Chicken Bowls - Fresh, Fast, and Flavor-Packed

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • For the chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs stay juicier)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1.5 teaspoons dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the bowls: 3 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • For the tzatziki (or use store-bought): 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Method
 

  1. Marinate the chicken. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
  2. Make the tzatziki. Stir together yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until serving so the flavors meld.
  3. Preheat the air fryer. Set to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the chicken sear and cook evenly.
  4. Cook the chicken. Lightly oil the air fryer basket. Add chicken in a single layer, shaking off excess marinade. Air fry at 380°F for 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway, until the thickest piece reaches 165°F (74°C) and edges are golden.
  5. Rest and slice. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy. Slice or chop into bite-size pieces.
  6. Prep the bowl base. Warm your rice or grains, or arrange mixed greens if you prefer a lighter bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
  7. Assemble. Divide the base among bowls. Top with chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, feta, and herbs. Add a generous spoonful of tzatziki and a squeeze of lemon.
  8. Taste and finish. Add a sprinkle of salt, extra oregano, or a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Serve immediately.