Chicken Souvlaki

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your table. Marinated to perfection, this chicken dish is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. It’s versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The combination of warm pita, fresh Greek salad, and creamy tzatziki sauce elevates this meal, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Chicken Souvlaki is a breeze.
• Flavorful Marinade – The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic oregano for a taste sensation.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family dinner or a barbecue with friends, this dish fits right in.
• Healthy Option – Packed with protein and healthy fats, Chicken Souvlaki is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable Serving – Serve with various sides like salads or flatbreads to suit any palate.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Souvlaki efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Zip-top bag
• Wooden skewers
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan – Provides even cooking and creates delicious char marks on the chicken.
• Zip-top bag – Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without messy cleanup.
• Wooden skewers – Perfect for threading chicken pieces for grilling; soaking them prevents burning.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki, gather the following ingredients:

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces)

For Serving

• Flatbreads
• Tzatziki
• Greek Salad

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a zip-top bag, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and ground black pepper to create the marinade. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breast pieces into the bag. Ensure any excess air is removed before sealing. Gently massage the bag to coat each piece of chicken fully with marinade. Place the bag in the refrigerator to marinate for at least one hour but no longer than four hours.

Step 3: Prepare Skewers for Grilling

Prior to grilling, soak wooden skewers in water for approximately 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.

Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Carefully thread the marinated chicken onto pre-soaked skewers.

Step 5: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan. Apply a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers

Once hot, add the chicken skewers to the grill or pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Remove the skewers from the grill or pan. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps retain juices and keep your chicken moist.

Step 8: Serve Your Chicken Souvlaki

Serve your delicious Chicken Souvlaki with warm flatbreads, fresh Greek salad, and creamy tzatziki sauce for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the vibrant streets of Greece. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish for a truly authentic Greek feast.

With Warm Pita

• Freshly baked pita bread pairs excellently with Chicken Souvlaki, allowing you to wrap the juicy chicken and toppings together for easy eating.

Accompanied by Greek Salad

• A refreshing Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta complements the flavors of Chicken Souvlaki beautifully, adding crunch and freshness.

Drizzled with Tzatziki Sauce

• The creamy tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic adds a rich taste that balances the spices in the Chicken Souvlaki perfectly.

Served with Lemon Wedges

• Adding lemon wedges brings a zesty brightness that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile. Simply squeeze over your chicken before enjoying!

Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant provide a colorful and healthy side that pairs well with Chicken Souvlaki.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Chicken Souvlaki, follow these expert tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least four hours enhances its flavors significantly. You can even marinate it overnight for deeper taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality olive oil make a noticeable difference in flavor. Avoid bottled sauces where possible.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill or grill pan is hot before cooking helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken tender inside.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between pieces of chicken on skewers for even cooking. This prevents steaming and ensures each piece gets that perfect char.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for about five minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Souvlaki can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Orzo Salad: This pasta salad features orzo mixed with fresh vegetables and feta cheese, providing a light and flavorful complement to the grilled chicken.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, seasoned roasted potatoes add heartiness to your meal alongside Chicken Souvlaki.
3. Hummus: Creamy hummus served with pita chips not only adds variety but also provides a delicious dip option for your Chicken Souvlaki skewers.
4. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made of parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon dressing offers a bright contrast to the richness of the meat.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): Filled with rice and herbs, these tasty bites offer an excellent side that pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean flavors.
6. Fried Zucchini: Lightly battered fried zucchini adds crunch and a touch of indulgence that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
7. Fattoush Salad: This Middle Eastern salad features crispy pita pieces mixed with fresh vegetables, adding texture and flavor that complements Chicken Souvlaki beautifully.
8. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: Packed with protein-rich quinoa mixed with veggies, this bowl offers nutrition without sacrificing taste next to your grilled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least one hour, but four hours is ideal.
• Not Soaking Skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking, they can burn on the grill. Soak them in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling.
• Using Cold Chicken: Grilling cold chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill can lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping Resting Time: Cutting into grilled chicken immediately will cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Let it rest for about five minutes after grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• Freeze individual skewers wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add skewers and cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish made from marinated chicken pieces grilled on skewers, typically served with pita and tzatziki.

How do I make Chicken Souvlaki tender?

To ensure your Chicken Souvlaki is tender, marinate it long enough and don’t overcook it on the grill. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use other meats for Souvlaki?

Yes! While Chicken Souvlaki is popular, you can use pork, lamb, or beef as alternatives. Adjust marinades accordingly based on the meat’s characteristics.

How long should I marinate Chicken Souvlaki?

Marinating Chicken Souvlaki for at least one hour enhances flavor; however, up to four hours yields even better results.

What should I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread, Greek salad, and creamy tzatziki sauce for a delicious meal that embodies Greek cuisine.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile for various occasions. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preference. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet delicious this dish can be!

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Greek Chicken Souvlaki

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make Chicken Souvlaki recipe. Perfectly marinated in a zesty garlic-lemon blend, this dish features tender chicken grilled to perfection on skewers. Serve it alongside warm pita, fresh Greek salad, and creamy tzatziki for an authentic Mediterranean experience. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, Chicken Souvlaki is versatile enough to please any palate. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll love how simple it is to bring a taste of Greece right to your table.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a zip-top bag, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Add chicken pieces to the bag and seal after removing excess air. Massage to coat evenly and refrigerate for at least one hour (up to four hours).
3. Soak wooden skewers in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan and lightly oil it.
5. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Allow skewers to rest for 5 minutes before serving with pita, Greek salad, and tzatziki.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg