Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings the taste of Greece right to your kitchen! Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon, garlic, and oregano, grilled to perfection and served on skewers. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, ready in just minutes (plus marinating time), and perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal or a casual backyard barbecue.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Authentic: The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, capturing the essence of traditional Greek souvlaki.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken, making it a versatile option for any cooking method. You can also customize the toppings and sides to your liking.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Chicken is a lean source of protein, and the addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice makes this dish a healthy and satisfying choice.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even marinating.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory kick to the marinade.
• Dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that’s characteristic of Greek cuisine.
• Salt and pepper: Season the chicken to perfection.
• Olive oil: Used in the marinade and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the marinade.
• Wooden skewers: Used to skewer the chicken for grilling or baking.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the chicken pieces, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice in a large sealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, for optimal flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

While the chicken is marinating, soak the wooden skewers in water for 1-2 hours. This prevents them from burning on the grill or in the oven.

Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, leaving about ½ inch of space at each end. Grill the skewers for about 3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Transfer the cooked skewers to a plate and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve the Chicken Souvlaki with your favorite sides and toppings, such as pita bread, tzatziki sauce, chopped onions, and tomatoes.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken adds a depth of flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.
• Soak the skewers: Soaking the wooden skewers prevents them from burning during grilling or baking.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Cook it just until it’s cooked through and the juices run clear.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Warm the pita bread: If serving with pita bread, warm it briefly in a dry skillet or microwave for a softer texture.

How to Serve

This Chicken Souvlaki is delicious with a variety of sides and toppings:

• Pita Bread: Serve the skewers with warm pita bread for wrapping the chicken and toppings.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber and yogurt sauce that adds a refreshing and tangy flavor.
• Onions and Tomatoes: Chopped onions and tomatoes add freshness and crunch.
• French Fries: Serve with a side of crispy French fries for a classic gyro experience.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese is a perfect accompaniment.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Souvlaki is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as usual. Cooked chicken can also be frozen, but it won’t be as juicy when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe.

2. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it? Yes, you can! Grilling the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. Grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3. Can I make my own tzatziki sauce? Absolutely! You can find many recipes online for homemade tzatziki sauce.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the marinade? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy a taste of Greece at home. With its easy preparation, versatile cooking methods, and customizable toppings, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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