Savor the mediterranean sun: easy greek chicken souvlaki recipe in minutes

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greece with our easy Greek chicken souvlaki recipe. This delectable dish combines succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and tangy lemon juice, creating a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Aegean. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can recreate the authentic taste of this beloved Greek street food in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Skewers and Serving:

• 12 wooden skewers
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt, for serving
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

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

2. Prepare the Skewers: Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

3. Skewer the Ingredients: Thread the chicken pieces, bell pepper pieces, onion pieces, and any other desired vegetables onto the skewers.

4. Grill or Pan-Fry: Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or pan-fry the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt and lemon wedges.

Tips for the Perfect Souvlaki

• Use a flavorful marinade: The marinade is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. Don’t skimp on the herbs and spices.
• Marinate for at least 30 minutes: This will give the marinade time to penetrate the chicken and enhance its taste.
• Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your souvlaki.
• Grill or pan-fry over high heat: This will create a nice char on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy on the inside.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook it until it is cooked through but still slightly tender.

Variations

• Use different types of meat: You can use lamb, pork, or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add different vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to your skewers for a more colorful and flavorful dish.
• Make your own tzatziki sauce: It’s easy to make your own tzatziki sauce using Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with pita bread or rice: Souvlaki is traditionally served with pita bread or rice.
• Add a side salad: A simple Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese would be a great accompaniment.
• Drizzle with extra olive oil and lemon juice: This will enhance the flavors even further.

The Wrap-Up: A Culinary Odyssey Concluded

Embarking on this culinary journey has been an adventure in taste and culture. With our easy Greek chicken souvlaki recipe, you can now savor the authentic flavors of Greece in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this recipe will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and let the flavors of souvlaki weave their magic.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use wooden or metal skewers?

Both wooden and metal skewers can be used. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

2. How long can I marinate the chicken?

The chicken can be marinated for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight. The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.

3. Can I use a different type of marinade?

Yes, you can use any type of marinade you like. However, we recommend using a marinade that is flavorful and contains some acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar.

4. What is the best way to cook the souvlaki?

The souvlaki can be grilled or pan-fried. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If pan-frying, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

5. What is the best way to serve souvlaki?

Souvlaki is traditionally served with pita bread or rice. It can also be served with a side salad or drizzled with extra olive oil and lemon juice.