Eat Well Recipe: Air-Fried Za'atar Chicken & Radish "Potatoes" [Dinner]
This Air-Fried Za'atar Chicken is a clever, metabolic-friendly take on "chicken and potatoes." By swapping traditional high-starch potatoes for roasted radishes, you achieve a similar texture with a fraction of the carbohydrates and calories, making it a perfect meal for blood sugar control.1
Air-Fried Za'atar Chicken & Radish "Potatoes"
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 18 mins | Serves: 2
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz) Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 bunch Large red radishes, halved (about 2 cups)
- 2 tbsp Za’atar spice blend (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds)2
- 1 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp Sea salt
- Optional: Fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for serving
Instructions & Method
- Prep the Mix: In a large bowl, toss the halved radishes and chicken with olive oil, za’atar, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
- Arrange: Place the radishes and chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. (Cook in batches if necessary to ensure air circulation).
- Air Fry: Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes.
- Shake & Flip: Halfway through (around the 8-minute mark), shake the basket to toss the radishes and flip the chicken for even browning.
- Check: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). The radishes should be tender and slightly shrivelled, mimicking the texture of roasted new potatoes.
- Garnish: Squeeze fresh lemon over the chicken before serving to brighten the earthy za’atar flavours.
Tips for Success: Staying Healthy & Preventing Diabetes
The primary advantage of this recipe for diabetes prevention is the Radish Swap. While a medium potato has about 26g of net carbs, a cup of radishes has only 2g, drastically reducing the glycemic load of your dinner. When roasted or air-fried, the sharp "bite" of the radish disappears, leaving a mild, savoury flavour.3
Za'atar is also a functional powerhouse; it contains sumac, which is rich in antioxidants that may help lower insulin resistance. Using chicken thighs provides healthy fats and protein that further stabilise blood sugar. For the best results, avoid store-bought za'atar blends with added flour or fillers. To support your metabolic health even further, start this meal with a small green salad. This "food sequencing"—eating fibre and protein before any complex carbs—is a proven strategy to flatten glucose spikes and keep your energy levels consistent throughout the evening.4
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