Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma
Deliciously marinated chicken thighs cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a crispy and flavorful shawarma experience.
Equipment
- Air fryer
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon allspice (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Start by combining the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, and salt in a bowl. Whisk until it is smooth and fragrant. Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and enhance flavor.
- Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade until fully coated. Ensure all pieces are well covered. Let those flavors really soak into the meat during the marinating time.
- Set your air fryer to the appropriate temperature and let it preheat for a few minutes. You should begin to smell the delicious aroma. Preheating enhances the crispiness of the chicken.
- Lay the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for crisping. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the chicken for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. The chicken should be golden and have a mouthwatering aroma. Check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F to avoid dryness.
- Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps to retain the juices, ensuring tender, juicy meat.
Notes
Refrigerate cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or skillet to revive the crispy edges.
Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to tenderize. Do not crowd the basket; work in batches for crispiness. Let chicken rest after cooking for juicier meat.
Reheat gently in the air fryer or skillet at medium heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Serve with Mediterranean yellow rice. Pair with a fresh lemon garlic yogurt sauce. Add a chopped Mediterranean salad on the side.
Swap chicken thighs for turkey thighs for a lighter meal. Add cayenne for extra heat in the marinade. Use a store-bought shawarma seasoning for convenience.
Select quality boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best results. For a dairy-free marinade, increase olive oil and lemon juice by 1 tablespoon each.