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, and served with warm pita bread and a side of creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s perfect for gatherings, weekend barbecues, or even a cozy dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a deliciously aromatic experience.
• Easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a meal ready in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it with pita bread, fresh veggies, or even on top of salads for a healthy twist.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests—everyone loves souvlaki!
• Healthy choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits well into various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your cooking experience when preparing this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading the marinated chicken and vegetables, allowing for even cooking on the grill.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that makes souvlaki authentic.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Knife & Cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and cutting chicken into chunks safely.

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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

Other

• 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 the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, chop the red onion and bell peppers into manageable chunks. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

After marinating the chicken, thread pieces onto wooden skewers alternately with onion and bell pepper chunks.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce for an authentic touch!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this dish.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Freshly warmed pita bread adds a soft and chewy contrast to the tender chicken. Use it to wrap around the souvlaki for a delicious bite.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• Creamy tzatziki sauce, made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic, complements the flavors of the chicken. It adds a refreshing touch to each mouthful.

On a Bed of Salad

• Serve the souvlaki on a bed of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light and healthy meal. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon for extra flavor.

Skewered with Vegetables

• Alternate chicken pieces with chunks of grilled vegetables like bell peppers and onions on skewers. This enhances both flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Achieving perfection with your chicken souvlaki is simple with these helpful tips.

• Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. This enhances flavor and tenderness.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and spices rather than dried ones when possible. They provide brighter flavors that elevate the dish.

• Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. A high temperature creates perfect grill marks and locks in moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Pairing sides with your chicken souvlaki can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil adds freshness and crunch.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that complements the flavors of the souvlaki.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or eggplant grilled alongside enhance the meal’s colorful presentation.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with lemon and herbs makes a comforting base for your souvlaki.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites add an authentic touch and pair beautifully with tzatziki sauce.
6. Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup offers nutritious goodness while balancing out the meal’s flavors.
7. Fried Eggplant: Crispy fried eggplant slices provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with tender chicken.
8. Hummus Platter: A spread of hummus served with veggies or pita chips offers a creamy option that’s great for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Over-marinating the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best results.
• Using dry skewers: Wooden skewers should always be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Neglecting to preheat the grill: A hot grill is crucial for properly searing the chicken. Preheat your grill for at least 10 minutes before cooking.
• Skipping the vegetables: Adding bell peppers and onions not only enhances flavor but also adds nutrition. Don’t overlook these colorful additions!
• Cutting chicken pieces too large: If you cut the chicken chunks too big, they may not cook evenly. Keep them uniform in size for consistent cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Place cooled chicken souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe that might help you.

What type of chicken is best for this souvlaki?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well due to their tenderness and ability to soak up flavors from the marinade.

Can I use other meats?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I serve authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve it with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a side of tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.

What can I use instead of tzatziki sauce?

You can use hummus or a yogurt-based dip as an alternative if you prefer something different.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe offers a delightful taste of Greece right at home. It’s versatile and allows for customization with different vegetables or marinades. Give it a try and enjoy delicious grilled flavors that are sure to impress!