Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek chicken souvlaki is a delightful dish that transports you to the Mediterranean with every bite. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or any gathering with friends and family. The marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, pairs beautifully with tzatziki sauce, making it a standout choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of marinating time, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs brings out the best in the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or use it as a filling for wraps and salads; it’s versatile enough for any meal.
• Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cooking, Greek chicken souvlaki is ideal for those sunny days when you want to enjoy grilling.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek chicken souvlaki efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: They are crucial for holding the marinated chicken pieces together while grilling evenly.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor throughout the chicken.
• Grill: Using a grill gives the chicken a lovely char and smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Tongs: Tongs allow you to handle the skewers easily without burning your hands while flipping them on the grill.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 ½-inch cubes)
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 recipe tzatziki sauce

How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the chicken, oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper to a large mixing bowl.
2. Stir together until all pieces are well-coated.
3. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Heat your grill on medium-high heat until hot.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers (about 8 to 9 pieces per skewer makes about 6 skewers).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken Skewers

1. Cook the skewers on the grill for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
2. Use tongs to flip them carefully to achieve an even char.

Step 4: Serve with Tzatziki Sauce

1. Once cooked, remove from grill and let them rest briefly.
2. Serve your grilled Greek chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Greek chicken souvlaki is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its delicious flavors. Here are some great serving suggestions to enjoy this Mediterranean delight.

With Fresh Pita Bread

• Warm Pita: Serve the grilled souvlaki wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic experience.
• Stuffed Pockets: Create stuffed pockets with fresh veggies and tzatziki for a satisfying meal.

Over a Bed of Rice

• Lemon Rice: Lay the souvlaki over lemon rice, which adds a zesty touch to your dish.
• Mediterranean Rice Bowl: Combine with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a hearty bowl.

On Skewers as Appetizers

• Party Skewers: Cut the souvlaki into smaller pieces and serve on toothpicks for easy snacking at gatherings.
• Dipping Station: Offer multiple dipping sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or garlic sauce.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Colorful Platter: Pair your souvlaki with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a balanced meal.
• Roasted Veggie Medley: Complement the skewers with roasted seasonal vegetables for added flavor.

As Part of a Salad

• Greek Salad: Slice the chicken and top a fresh Greek salad for a light yet filling option.
• Grain Salad: Mix with quinoa or farro along with veggies for a nutritious grain salad.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best Greek chicken souvlaki, follow these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1-2 hours to absorb maximum flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality olive oil to improve taste significantly.
• Skewer Smartly: Avoid crowding the skewers; leave some space between pieces for even cooking.
• Preheat Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps achieve perfect char marks.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling; this keeps them juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing Greek chicken souvlaki with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber-yogurt dip that complements the flavors of souvlaki perfectly.
2. Greek Salad: A refreshing blend of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil.
3. Hummus: This chickpea dip adds creaminess and pairs well as a spread or dip.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the dish.
5. Spanakopita: These flaky pastry triangles filled with spinach add delicious texture to your meal.
6. Olives: A variety of olives offer briny goodness that enhances the Mediterranean flair of your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek chicken souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
• Using Wooden Skewers Without Soaking: If you use wooden skewers, soaking them in water prevents burning on the grill. Aim for about 30 minutes of soaking time.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too many pieces of chicken on one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to about 8 to 9 pieces per skewer.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in sticking or uneven cooking. Heat it up on medium-high before placing your skewers.
• Skipping the Tzatziki Sauce: Serving without tzatziki can make your dish less authentic. Prepare this refreshing sauce to elevate your meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Greek chicken souvlaki in an airtight container.
• item It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• item You can freeze cooked souvlaki for up to 3 months.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the souvlaki on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet on medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed evenly, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Greek chicken souvlaki.

How do I make Greek Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?

Adding extra spices like paprika or cumin can enhance the flavor profile. Consider marinating overnight for deeper flavors.

Can I use other types of meat for Souvlaki?

Yes! While chicken is popular, you can also use pork, beef, or lamb for different flavor experiences.

What can I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Pair it with pita bread, salads, or grilled vegetables. These sides complement the dish beautifully.

Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and makes a great addition to lunch boxes or quick dinners during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Greek chicken souvlaki is not only delicious but versatile as well. You can customize it with various marinades and serve it with diverse sides. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner—give it a try!