Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Enjoy a taste of Greece with this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a delightful blend of herbs and spices, grilled to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress! The combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs infuses the chicken with amazing flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce or over a fresh salad for a lighter option.
• Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is a great option for health-conscious eaters.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for summer barbecues or a cozy indoor grilling night.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Soaking these in water prevents burning while grilling, allowing you to achieve perfectly cooked souvlaki.
• Grill or grill pan: Using a grill gives your chicken that iconic charred flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for marinating the chicken evenly, ensuring each piece is packed with flavor.

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Ingredients

For this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks

Additional Supplies

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

After marinating, take your wooden skewers and alternate threading chicken chunks with pieces of red onion and bell peppers.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s hot before placing your skewers on it for an even cook.

Step 5: Grill the Souvlaki

Place skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove from grill. Serve immediately with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek experience!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is an opportunity to showcase its vibrant flavors and aromas. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Serve the chicken skewers wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic Greek experience. Add fresh veggies for extra crunch.

Paired with Tzatziki Sauce

• A creamy tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and dill complements the grilled chicken perfectly. It adds a refreshing contrast to the savory meat.

On a Salad

• Place the grilled chicken atop a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a light meal.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include your chicken souvlaki on a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and stuffed grape leaves. This is great for sharing at gatherings.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

To achieve the best results with your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight in the herb mixture. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply.

• Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill. Aim for at least 30 minutes before use.

• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. A well-heated grill creates better sear marks and flavor.

• Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, space out the skewers on the grill. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents steaming.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate your dish significantly. If possible, use freshly chopped oregano or thyme instead of dried varieties.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Complementing your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki with side dishes enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives dressed in olive oil provides a refreshing accompaniment.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and eggplant roasted with olive oil can add depth to your meal.

3. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in broth with lemon zest offers a zesty base that pairs well with grilled chicken.

4. Fried Potatoes: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone loves.

5. Chickpea Salad: Tossed with parsley, onion, and lemon dressing, this salad adds protein and texture to your plate.

6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites filled with rice and herbs are perfect for dipping into tzatziki sauce alongside your souvlaki.

7. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives that adds a rich flavor when served alongside pita bread or directly on top of grilled chicken.

8. Pineapple Salsa: A sweet and tangy salsa made from fresh pineapple can bring an unexpected twist to traditional flavors.

Each of these sides will enhance your dining experience while enjoying an authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating the chicken properly is key to making an authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Don’t skip this step; allow at least 30 minutes for marination, or overnight for best results.

• Using Cold Chicken: Starting with cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.

• Not Soaking Skewers: Wooden skewers can catch fire on the grill if not soaked. Make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Overcrowding can prevent even cooking and char. Use only a few pieces of chicken and veggies per skewer to ensure they cook thoroughly.

• Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Aim for medium-high heat and grill until fully cooked.

• Forgetting to Rotate: Failing to rotate your skewers can result in uneven grilling. Turn them regularly during cooking to achieve that perfect char.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place souvlaki on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to our Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe:

What type of chicken is best for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best due to their lean nature and ability to absorb flavors from the marinade.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

How do I make tzatziki sauce?

Mix plain yogurt with minced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and a little dill or mint for a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but ideally overnight if you have time.

What sides go well with Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Serve with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or using various marinades. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Try it out and enjoy a taste of Greece right at home!