Mediterranean-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken with Fresh Herbs

Mediterranean-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken with Fresh Herbs

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with this herbaceous air fryer roast chicken. Seasoned with olive oil, fresh herbs, and lemon, this recipe delivers a light yet flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 lemon, halved

• 3 cloves garlic, smashed

• Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Air fryer

• Chef’s knife

• Cutting board

• Small mixing bowl

• Basting brush

• Meat thermometer

Preparation Steps:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin.

2. Rub the chicken with olive oil for even seasoning.

Make the Mediterranean Spice Blend:

1. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Rub the seasoning blend all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.

3. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, smashed garlic, and fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs.

Air Frying Steps:

1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes.

2. Load the Chicken: Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket.

3. First Cook Cycle: Air fry at 360°F for 30 minutes.

4. Flip and Finish: Flip the chicken breast-side up and continue cooking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature at the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F.

5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving to lock in the juices.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with Mediterranean-style sides like couscous, tabbouleh, or Greek salad.

• Drizzle with tzatziki or hummus for an extra Mediterranean touch.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.

• Check the Fit: If the chicken is too large for your air fryer, spatchcock it to ensure even cooking.

• Layer the Flavor: Brush olive oil mixed with lemon juice over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra zest. Mediterranean-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken with Fresh Herbs

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~280

• Protein: ~24g

• Carbohydrates: ~2g

• Fat: ~20g

This Mediterranean-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken combines fragrant herbs and zesty citrus to create a healthy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.