Secrets of greek grilling: how to make mouthwatering chicken souvlaki

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Greece with this step-by-step guide on how to make chicken souvlaki at home. From marinating the chicken to grilling it to perfection, we’ll guide you through every aspect of this culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon dill weed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken cubes and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill the Souvlaki: Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Make the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tzatziki ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken souvlaki with the tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and your favorite toppings, such as tomatoes, onions, and feta cheese.

Tips for Grilling Souvlaki

• Use wooden skewers and soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Grill the skewers over indirect heat to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking.
• Rotate the skewers frequently to prevent the chicken from drying out.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F before serving.

Variations on Souvlaki

• Lamb Souvlaki: Use lamb cubes instead of chicken for a more traditional flavor.
• Vegetable Souvlaki: Skewer vegetables such as onions, zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Shrimp Souvlaki: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the souvlaki with pita bread, rice, or salad.
• Top with your favorite toppings, such as tomatoes, onions, feta cheese, or tzatziki sauce.
• Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for extra flavor.

The Ultimate Souvlaki Experience

Mastering the art of homemade chicken souvlaki will elevate your grilling game and impress your guests. From the succulent chicken to the refreshing tzatziki sauce, every bite will transport you to the heart of Greece.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for souvlaki?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate it for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight. Longer marinating time will result in more flavorful chicken.

Q: What if I don’t have wooden skewers?
A: You can use metal skewers, but make sure to soak them in water before grilling to prevent them from overheating.

Q: Can I make souvlaki in the oven?
A: Yes, but the texture will be different from grilled souvlaki. Preheat your oven to 400°F and cook the skewers on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: What are some other ways to serve souvlaki?
A: You can serve it as a main course with sides, or as an appetizer on skewers. You can also wrap it in pita bread with your favorite toppings for a delicious wrap.