Craving souvlaki? try this no-grill recipe that will make your taste buds dance
What To Know
- For a smoky flavor, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet on your stovetop.
- Can I cook the souvlaki on a grill.
- Yes, if you have a grill, you can cook the souvlaki over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Greece without the need for a grill! This delectable chicken souvlaki recipe allows you to enjoy the authentic taste of this beloved dish right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 wooden skewers
Marinating the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Assembling the Souvlaki
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the wooden skewers.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Baking the Souvlaki
Bake the souvlaki for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce
While the souvlaki is baking, prepare the refreshing tzatziki sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients for the tzatziki sauce. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serving the Souvlaki
Arrange the baked souvlaki on a platter and drizzle with the tzatziki sauce. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping bread, such as pita or naan.
Tips for No-Grill Souvlaki
- For a smoky flavor, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet on your stovetop.
- If you don’t have wooden skewers, you can use metal skewers or even toothpicks.
- To make the chicken even more tender, marinate it for longer.
- Serve the souvlaki with other Greek delights, such as Greek salad, hummus, or olives.
Variations
- Veggie Souvlaki: Substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions.
- Pork Souvlaki: Use pork tenderloin instead of chicken breasts.
- Lamb Souvlaki: Opt for lamb shoulder or leg for a richer flavor.
Accompaniments
- Pita Bread: Warm and fluffy pita bread is the perfect vessel for dipping in the flavorful souvlaki and tzatziki.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese complements the souvlaki perfectly.
- Hummus: Creamy and tangy hummus adds a delicious contrast to the savory souvlaki.
Wrapping It Up: A Culinary Journey in Your Kitchen
This chicken souvlaki recipe no grill is a testament to the versatility of Greek cuisine. It brings the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean to your home, transforming your kitchen into a culinary haven. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a taste of Greece, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. Experiment with variations and accompaniments to create your own unique souvlaki experience.
Questions You May Have
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
- How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Can I cook the souvlaki on a grill?
Yes, if you have a grill, you can cook the souvlaki over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- What other sauces can I serve with souvlaki?
Besides tzatziki, you can serve souvlaki with other Greek sauces, such as skordalia (garlic sauce) or tirokafteri (spicy cheese dip).
- Can I make the souvlaki ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the souvlaki ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bring them to room temperature before baking.