Greek Chicken Souvlaki Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Are you craving a meal that's packed with flavor and easy to make? Greek Chicken Souvlaki is your answer! In this post, I’ll share my favorite recipe, guiding you through each step. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll impress your friends and family in no time. Let's dive into the world of tender, juicy souvlaki that’s sure to delight your taste buds!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- Chicken Breast: You need 1.5 lbs of chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes. This size helps the chicken cook evenly.

- Marinade Components:

- 3 tablespoons of olive oil for flavor.

- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for a fresh taste.

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced, to add depth.

- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for that classic Greek flavor.

- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin for warmth.

- 1 teaspoon of paprika for a bit of color and spice.

- Salt and pepper to taste, which enhances all the flavors.

- Serving Suggestions:

- 8 wooden or metal skewers to hold the chicken.

- Tzatziki sauce for dipping. It adds a cool contrast to the warm chicken.

- Pita bread to serve alongside the souvlaki. It’s perfect for wrapping up the chicken.

- Fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish your dish. It gives a nice pop of color.

These ingredients come together to create a tasty and satisfying meal. The marinade does most of the work by infusing the chicken with flavor. You can adjust the spices to fit your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Marinade

To make the marinade, start with a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Next, mince 3 cloves of garlic and add them to the bowl. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk all the ingredients together until they blend well. This mixture brings a burst of flavor to the chicken.

Marinating the Chicken

Cut 1.5 lbs of chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Place these cubes into the marinade you just made. Stir the chicken so every piece gets coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, let it sit overnight. This step is key for juicy and tasty souvlaki.

Grilling the Chicken Souvlaki

Before grilling, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent burning. Now, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on it. Cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This keeps the chicken tender. Serve the souvlaki on a platter with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley for an extra touch.

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Souvlaki

To grill perfect souvlaki, start with good chicken. Use fresh chicken breast. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Make sure to preheat your grill. A hot grill gives great grill marks. Cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes. Turn the skewers often to avoid burning. Always check that the internal temperature hits 165°F.

Best Practices for Marinating Chicken

Marinating is key for flavor. My go-to marinade combines olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, and paprika. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least one hour. For even better taste, marinate overnight. This helps the flavors soak in. Cover the bowl tightly. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes for the best results. First, don’t skip the marinade. Skipping it leads to bland chicken. Second, don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave space between the cubes for even cooking. Lastly, avoid flipping too often. Let the chicken sear before turning. This helps build those tasty grill marks.

Variations

Vegetarian Options for Souvlaki

You can easily make souvlaki vegetarian. Swap chicken for firm tofu or hearty veggies. Try bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Marinate them just like chicken. Use the same marinade for great flavor. Grill them until they are tender and slightly charred. Serve with tzatziki and pita for a tasty meal.

Different Marinade Recipes

While the classic marinade is great, feel free to experiment. You can add yogurt for creaminess. Use fresh herbs like dill or basil for a twist. Try lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added zing. Adjust the spices to your taste, too. This way, you can find a mix that you love.

Serving Suggestions with Alternative Accompaniments

You can serve souvlaki in many fun ways. Instead of pita, use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Add a side of tabbouleh or Greek salad for a fresh touch. Top with feta cheese or olives for extra flavor. You can even serve it with rice for a filling meal. The possibilities are endless!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Souvlaki

You can store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container. Let the chicken cool down first. Place it in the fridge within two hours. Proper storage helps keep the flavors fresh. It will last for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze your souvlaki, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the souvlaki for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

Reheat souvlaki in the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but it may not keep the same texture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Enjoy your delicious souvlaki!

FAQs

What is the best way to marinate chicken for souvlaki?

The best way to marinate chicken for souvlaki is to use a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This mix adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy. Start by whisking together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper! Coat the chicken well, then let it sit in the fridge for at least one hour. For more flavor, you can let it marinate overnight.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless thighs instead of breasts for souvlaki. Boneless thighs have more fat, which makes the meat juicy and tender. Just cut them into 1-inch cubes like you would with chicken breasts. The cooking time will be similar, but always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What side dishes pair well with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some great options:

- Tzatziki sauce for dipping

- Warm pita bread

- Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta

- Roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers

- Rice pilaf or lemon rice for a filling option

These sides enhance the flavors of the souvlaki and make your meal even more enjoyable!

You now have all the steps to make tasty chicken souvlaki. We covered the best ingredients and marinade options. I shared tips for grilling and avoiding mistakes. You also learned how to store and reheat leftovers.

Experiment with variations to find your favorite taste. Enjoy cooking this simple, healthy dish for friends and family! The joy of good food is in the making and sharing.