Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Enjoy a taste of Greece with this authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of herbs and spices, grilled to perfection, and served alongside warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its incredible flavor and delightful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: A mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs ensures each bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve on skewers or in wraps; it’s great for any occasion!
• Healthy Option: Low in carbs and high in protein, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
• Perfectly Grilled: Achieve that smoky flavor without the need for complicated techniques.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Bowl for marinating
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Essential for holding the chicken and vegetables together while grilling.
• Bowl for marinating: Helps to evenly coat the chicken with the flavorful marinade.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the best method to achieve that delicious charred flavor.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the skewers easily on the grill without losing any ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Skewers

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

After marinating, thread the chicken onto soaked wooden skewers. Alternate with chunks of red onion and bell peppers for added flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s hot before placing the skewers on it.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from grill and let rest briefly before serving. Enjoy your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Pita bread complements the juicy chicken. Serve it warm for a delightful texture and flavor.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• This creamy yogurt-based sauce adds a refreshing touch. Dip your souvlaki or spread it on pita for extra flavor.

Over a Greek Salad

• For a fresh twist, place the souvlaki pieces atop a Greek salad. The combination of veggies and chicken makes for a hearty meal.

With Rice Pilaf

• Serve the souvlaki alongside fluffy rice pilaf. The grains soak up the marinade flavors beautifully, enhancing each bite.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, consider these tips:

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Soak Skewers Well: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring your souvlaki cooks perfectly.
• Use High Heat: Grilling at high temperatures gives that perfect char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Check Doneness: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps retain juices and improves flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki enhances your meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Greek Salad
   A mixture of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil brings freshness to your plate.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted until tender provide great texture and color.

3. Lemon Rice
   Fluffy rice infused with lemon juice adds brightness that complements the savory chicken.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred pairs well with the smoky flavors of soutvlaki.

5. Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, parsley, red onion, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious side option.

6. Hummus with Veggies
   Creamy hummus served with carrots, celery, or bell pepper sticks provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.

7. Pasta Salad
   A chilled pasta salad with olives, cherry tomatoes, and basil can be a refreshing accompaniment.

8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These flavorful grape leaves filled with rice and herbs are an excellent Mediterranean addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the most out of your cooking experience, avoid these common mistakes when preparing the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Using dry skewers: Cooking with dry wooden skewers can lead to burnt sticks. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Crowding the skewers: Overcrowding your skewers can prevent even cooking. Leave some space between each piece of chicken and vegetables for better grill marks and flavor.
• Not preheating the grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on it.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Serving without sides: Serving chicken souvlaki alone misses out on its full potential. Pair it with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Place cooked souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the souvlaki for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe.

How do I make my chicken souvlaki tender?

Marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes helps break down tough fibers, making it more tender when grilled.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, lamb, or turkey if you prefer different proteins.

What should I serve with my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Pair it with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or a creamy tzatziki sauce for an authentic experience.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than overnight to avoid overly softening the meat.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Enjoy this flavorful dish any day of the week!