Elevate your grilling skills! this chicken souvlaki recipe greek is the key to succulent and savory perfection

Chicken souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish consisting of marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. It’s a staple of Greek cuisine, enjoyed as a main course or as part of a meze platter.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To make authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to coat the chicken thoroughly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Preparing the Skewers

1. Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers.

Grilling the Souvlaki

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates.
3. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serving Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki can be served with a variety of sides, such as:

• Tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread
• Greek salad
• Rice pilaf
• Roasted vegetables

Variations on Greek Chicken Souvlaki

There are many variations on the classic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe. Here are a few popular options:

• Pork souvlaki: Substitute pork cubes for chicken.
• Lamb souvlaki: Substitute lamb cubes for chicken.
• Vegetable souvlaki: Thread vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini onto the skewers.
• Souvlaki with feta: Crumble feta cheese over the grilled chicken before serving.
• Souvlaki with lemon-herb marinade: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs such as parsley and basil to the marinade.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Souvlaki

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Grill the souvlaki over medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.
• Turn the skewers frequently to prevent burning.
• Serve the souvlaki hot with your favorite sides.

Health Benefits of Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki is a healthy and nutritious dish that offers several health benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken is a lean protein source that helps build and repair muscle tissue.
• Low in fat: Chicken souvlaki is a low-fat dish, making it a good choice for those watching their weight.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Chicken souvlaki is a good source of vitamins B6, B12, and niacin, as well as minerals such as iron and zinc.

The Final Word

Chicken souvlaki is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re grilling it for a backyard party or serving it as part of a meze platter, this classic Greek dish is sure to impress.

Questions You May Have

Q: What can I substitute for wooden skewers?
A: You can use metal skewers or even rosemary sprigs as skewers.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours, but at least 30 minutes is recommended for optimal flavor.

Q: What is the best way to reheat chicken souvlaki?
A: Reheat the souvlaki in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.