Elevate your weeknights: instant pot greek chicken souvlaki recipe for busy cooks

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Greece with our mouthwatering Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, tailored perfectly for your Instant Pot. This tantalizing dish combines succulent chicken, zesty marinade, and aromatic vegetables, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken marinates, cut the bell peppers and onion into 1-inch pieces.

3. Insert Trivet into Instant Pot: Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot.

4. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Arrange the chicken and vegetables on the trivet in a single layer.

5. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the cook time to 10 minutes on high pressure.

6. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”

7. Grill or Broil (Optional): For a smoky flavor, you can grill or broil the souvlaki skewers. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers and cook over medium heat until lightly charred.

Serving Ideas:

Serve the Greek Chicken Souvlaki with your favorite sides, such as:

• Pita bread
• Tzatziki sauce
• Greek salad
• Roasted potatoes

Tips:

• Use a flavorful marinade: The marinade is crucial for infusing the chicken with delicious flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: The chicken should be cooked through but not dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Add your favorite vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your souvlaki, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
• Serve immediately: Souvlaki is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

Variations:

• Pork Souvlaki: Substitute the chicken with pork tenderloin for a richer flavor.
• Lamb Souvlaki: For a more traditional Greek experience, use lamb instead of chicken.
• Vegetarian Souvlaki: Create a vegetarian version by using tofu or halloumi cheese instead of chicken.

Health Benefits:

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: The vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
• Low in fat: This dish is low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried dishes.

FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

2. Do I have to grill or broil the souvlaki?
Grilling or broiling is optional. You can also cook the souvlaki in a skillet or on a grill pan.

3. What is a good substitute for lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use white wine vinegar or lime juice instead.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.