Craving authentic greek flavor? try our easy oven-baked chicken souvlaki recipe

Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure with this authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe in oven. This dish will transport you to the sun-soaked shores of Greece, where the flavors of juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables dance harmoniously on your palate. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a delectable meal, this recipe is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you longing for more.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the bell peppers and onion into 1-inch pieces.

3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between chicken, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion.

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

5. Roast the Souvlaki: Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the souvlaki from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides, such as pita bread, tzatziki sauce, or a refreshing salad.

Tips for the Perfect Souvlaki

• Use high-quality ingredients: The freshness and flavor of your ingredients will significantly impact the taste of your souvlaki. Choose juicy chicken breasts, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs.

• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also tenderizes it. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for maximum absorption.

• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Ensure there is enough space between the pieces on the skewers to allow for proper cooking. Overcrowding can prevent the souvlaki from cooking evenly.

• Rotate the skewers: During roasting, rotate the skewers halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and prevent burning.

Variations

• Chicken Souvlaki with Halloumi: Add cubes of halloumi cheese to the skewers for a savory and tangy twist.

• Lamb Souvlaki: Substitute lamb cubes for chicken for a more traditional Greek flavor.

• Vegetable Souvlaki: Create a vegetarian version by skewering vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms.

• Souvlaki with Rice: Serve the souvlaki over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Sides to Complement Your Souvlaki

• Tzatziki Sauce: A classic Greek yogurt-based sauce that adds a refreshing and tangy flavor to the souvlaki.

• Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy pita bread is perfect for wrapping up the souvlaki and enjoying its flavors.

• Greek Salad: A vibrant and refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, and olives.

• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy and flavorful roasted potatoes are a delicious and satisfying side dish.

“Souvlaki” vs. “Souvlaki”

Although the English language often uses the term “souvlaki” to refer to this dish, the correct Greek spelling is “σουβλάκι” (pronounced “soo-vlah-kee”). In Greek, the word “σουβλάκι” is a diminutive form of “σουβλί” (pronounced “soo-vlee”), which means “skewer.” Therefore, a more accurate translation for “σουβλάκι” would be “little skewer.”

A Taste of Greek Culture

Greek chicken souvlaki is not merely a dish but a culinary representation of Greek culture. It embodies the country’s love for fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and shared dining experiences. Traditionally, souvlaki is enjoyed in tavernas or on the streets, where it is grilled over charcoal and served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and other accompaniments.

Frequently Discussed Topics

• How long should I marinate the chicken?
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.

• Can I use wooden or metal skewers?
• You can use either wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

• How do I know when the souvlaki is cooked through?
• The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

• Can I make souvlaki ahead of time?
• You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and skewer the ingredients. However, it is best to grill the souvlaki just before serving to ensure optimal freshness and flavor.

• What are some other variations of souvlaki?
• You can create variations by using different meats (such as lamb or pork), vegetables, or marinades. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces or side dishes.