When it comes to food that dances on your taste buds, nothing beats the delightful Greek chicken souvlaki. Picture tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, bursting with zesty flavors and charred goodness. The aroma alone will have you drooling long before they hit the plate. Imagine the warm sun on your skin as you grill these beauties outdoors, surrounded by friends and family, all eagerly waiting to devour this Mediterranean delight. For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best way to cut chicken for souvlaki?
- Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
- How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to a time when I whipped up this Greek chicken souvlaki recipe for my cousin’s backyard barbecue. As I flipped those skewers on the grill, laughter filled the air while my family marveled at how such simple ingredients could create a flavor explosion. spicy chili variations It was an unforgettable evening that brought everyone together over great food and even better company.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Family and friends couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and flavorful the chicken turned out!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; trust me, no one likes soggy garlic.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is key; bottled lemon juice lacks that zing we all crave in life.
- Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor; it makes a world of difference.
- Dried Oregano: A classic herb in Greek cuisine that adds authentic earthiness to each bite. savory muffins for gatherings.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skimp here—those flavors deserve to shine!
- Pita Bread or Skewers: Perfect for serving; get creative with how you package your souvlaki! perfect side for souvlaki.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Marinate the Chicken: Start by cutting chicken breasts into even cubes; this helps them cook uniformly. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken cubes until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
Prepare Your Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using an oven, set it to broil mode. This high temperature is crucial for that beautiful char we all love.
Assemble Skewers or Wraps: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers if grilling; try not to crowd them too much—give them space to breathe! Alternatively, wrap marinated pieces in pita bread with fresh veggies.
Grill the Souvlaki: Place skewers on the grill; cook for about 10-12 minutes total. Turn occasionally until golden brown with crispy edges and register an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The aroma will drive your neighbors wild!
Serve with Tzatziki Sauce: While chicken is grilling, whip up some tzatziki sauce using yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill. Serve alongside your souvlaki for an irresistible dip!
Garnish & Enjoy!: Once cooked through and beautifully charred, remove from heat and let rest briefly. Serve garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or mint—this adds a lovely touch!
With these simple steps followed closely (and perhaps a glass of wine in hand), you’ll create a mouthwatering Greek chicken souvlaki that will wow everyone around!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked souvlaki, marinate the chicken overnight, then grill for about 10-12 minutes over medium-high heat, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding colorful bell peppers or red onions to your skewers for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of feta cheese before serving can elevate your dish!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain its juiciness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken for at least four hours to enhance flavor depth immensely.
- Use skewers soaked in water to prevent burning while grilling.
- Always let grilled meat rest for five minutes before serving for juiciness.
It reminds me of the time my friends and I tried this recipe during a summer barbecue. The laughter echoed as we shared stories while savoring each delicious bite—it truly brought us together.
FAQ
What is the best way to cut chicken for souvlaki?
Cutting the chicken into uniform cubes ensures even cooking and tender results.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! Pork, beef, or even tofu work surprisingly well in this Greek chicken souvlaki recipe. traditional Greek stew.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Greek chicken souvlaki is a delightful Mediterranean dish featuring tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Bursting with zesty flavors and aromatic herbs, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. Serve it with warm pita bread and homemade tzatziki sauce for an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pita bread or skewers for serving
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into uniform cubes.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C).
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers without overcrowding.
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Serve with tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 4 oz)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
