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Mediterranean Air-Fried Chicken & Chickpea Medley

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in this impeccably balanced, high-protein weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken, hearty chickpeas, and crisp vegetables are infused with a lemon-herb marinade and air-fried to perfection in under 30 minutes.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Keyword 30 minute Mediterranean diet dinner, air fryer chicken and chickpeas, air fryer Mediterranean chicken
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 551kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Air Fryer (6-quart or larger recommended)
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Ingredients

  • 1⅓ ​ lbs 680 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 15-ounce can low-sodium chickpeas, rinsed and thoroughly drained
  • 2 medium zucchini 1 lb total, sliced into ½-inch thick half-moons
  • 1 medium red bell pepper deseeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small red onion cut into thin wedges
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes left whole
  • 2½ ​ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice from 1-2 lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1½ ​ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives halved
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped

Instructions

  • Create the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and Dijon.
  • Combine Vegetables & Legumes: Add zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and chickpeas; toss to coat.
  • Incorporate the Protein: Add chicken; toss well. Marinate 5 minutes.
  • First Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange chicken, bell pepper, and onion in a single layer (cook in 2 batches if crowded). Air-fry 8 minutes, shaking halfway.
  • Final Air Fry: Add reserved zucchini, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives to the basket; toss gently with par-cooked items. Air-fry 6–8 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender-crisp. Discard any leftover marinade that contacted raw chicken—do not pour it over cooked food.
  • Finish and Serve: Transfer to a platter/bowls; top with feta and dill. Serve hot.

Notes

Don't Crowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, ensure the ingredients are in a single layer. If you have a smaller air fryer, cooking in two full batches is highly recommended for the best texture.
Pat Dry for Perfection: For optimal browning on the chicken and vegetables, pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the marinade. Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of frying.
Serving Suggestion: While a complete meal on its own, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side of whole-wheat couscous or a fresh cucumber and yogurt dip (tzatziki) to complement the Mediterranean flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving
  • Calories: 551 kcal
  • Protein: 60 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 7 g
  • Total Sugars: 9.5 g
  • Added Sugar: 0 g
  • Total Fat: 20.3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.6 g
  • Sodium: 562 mg