Savor the flavors of summer: easy and delicious chicken souvlaki recipe from gimme some oven

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering chicken souvlaki recipe, brought to you by the culinary maestros at Gimme Some Oven. This easy-to-follow guide will lead you on a culinary adventure, transforming simple ingredients into a Mediterranean masterpiece.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Souvlaki:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For Serving:

• Pita bread or rice
• Tzatziki sauce
• Lemon wedges
• Red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece.
5. Grill the Souvlaki: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Rest the Souvlaki: Remove the souvlaki from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki on pita bread or rice, topped with tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, and red onion.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The marinade and chicken are the foundation of this dish, so opt for the best possible options.
• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Make sure to leave enough space between the skewers to ensure even cooking.
• Cook the chicken over medium-high heat: This will help create a beautiful char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Variations on the Classic:

• Try different marinades: Experiment with other flavors by using herbs like basil or rosemary, or add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
• Switch up the skewers: Instead of wooden skewers, try using metal skewers or even lemongrass stalks for a unique twist.
• Add vegetables to the skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini onto the skewers for a colorful and flavorful addition.

Final Thoughts:

This chicken souvlaki recipe from Gimme Some Oven is a culinary triumph that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Its juicy, flavorful chicken, combined with the tangy marinade and refreshing toppings, creates a dish that is both satisfying and utterly delicious. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and prepare to savor the taste of this Mediterranean masterpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily than thighs. Be sure to marinate them for a longer period of time to ensure they remain tender.

Q: How can I make the tzatziki sauce?
A: To make tzatziki sauce, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of grated cucumber, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for the souvlaki?
A: Yes, you can use other meats such as lamb, beef, or pork for the souvlaki. Be sure to adjust the marinating time and cooking methods accordingly.