Grill up the perfect chicken souvlaki: a no-fail recipe with juicy, tender chicken
What To Know
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of chopped cucumber, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- You can toast it in the oven or on the grill for a crispy texture.
- You can cook the chicken souvlaki in a grill pan or in the oven on a baking sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Greece with our effortless chicken souvlaki recipe. This beloved dish, renowned for its succulent chicken skewers grilled to perfection, is now within your reach with our simplified guide.
Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 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
Marinade: The Secret to Tenderness
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Skewering: The Art of Presentation
Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread it onto the wooden skewers. Ensure the chicken pieces are packed tightly to prevent them from falling off during grilling.
Grilling: The Culinary Symphony
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Tzatziki: The Perfect Accompaniment
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the refreshing tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of chopped cucumber, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Pita Bread: The Canvas for Your Creation
Warm up some pita bread to serve as the base for your souvlaki. You can toast it in the oven or on the grill for a crispy texture.
Assembly: The Culinary Masterpiece
Place the grilled chicken skewers on the pita bread. Top with the tzatziki sauce, chopped tomatoes, onions, and any other desired toppings. Fold the pita bread in half or roll it up to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Enjoying Your Culinary Creation
Savor the delectable flavors of your homemade chicken souvlaki. The tender chicken, the refreshing tzatziki, and the warm pita bread will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Greece.
What People Want to Know
1. What type of chicken is best for souvlaki?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for skewering and grilling.
2. Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden skewers?
Yes, you can use metal skewers. However, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from overheating.
3. How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or as long as overnight. The longer the marinating time, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
4. What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the chicken souvlaki in a grill pan or in the oven on a baking sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. What are some alternative toppings for chicken souvlaki?
You can add feta cheese, grilled vegetables, or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for additional flavor.