Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, this souvlaki is sure to impress. The vibrant colors of the grilled veggies not only make it visually appealing but also enhance its flavor profile.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Skewers
• For Garnish
• How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Preheat the Grill
• Step 4: Assemble Skewers
• Step 5: Grill the Skewers
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• With Warm Pita Bread
• Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce
• Alongside Fresh Salads
• With Roasted Vegetables
• How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
• How do I make a homemade tzatziki sauce?
• What sides pair well with Chicken Souvlaki?
• How can I customize my souvlaki?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, making authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is hassle-free.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with delicious Mediterranean flavors that will transport your taste buds to Greece.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it in wraps, salads, or on skewers—this dish is perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
• Quick Cooking Time: From prep to table in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure a smooth cooking process and fantastic results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden skewers

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that makes souvlaki truly special.
• Large bowl: Essential for mixing the marinade and ensuring even coating of the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps blend all ingredients in the marinade smoothly, enhancing flavor absorption.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade. Toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; overnight marinating enhances flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure proper cooking of the skewers.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto wooden skewers. Alternate with pieces of red onion and bell peppers for added flavor and color.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 8–10 minutes while turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked through and vegetables are tender with slight charring.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from grill and serve immediately with warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek experience.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is as much about the presentation as it is about the flavors. Here are some delightful ways to serve this Mediterranean dish that will impress your guests.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Pita Wraps: Fill warm pita bread with grilled chicken souvlaki, fresh veggies, and a dollop of tzatziki for a handheld meal.
• Pita Chips: Serve crispy pita chips on the side for an extra crunch to complement the juicy chicken.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• Creamy Dipping Sauce: Offer tzatziki sauce as a dip for the skewers. The coolness pairs beautifully with the grilled flavors.
• Sauce on Top: Drizzle tzatziki over the souvlaki before serving for added flavor and creaminess.

Alongside Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta enhances the meal’s freshness.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing cucumber salad balances the rich flavors of the chicken souvlaki.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Grilled Veggies: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a colorful plate.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that complements the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve mouthwatering authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, follow these simple tips. These pointers ensure your skewers are flavorful and juicy every time.

• Bold Marinade: Use a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to create a rich marinade. Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances its flavor significantly.
• Proper Skewering: Alternate chicken pieces with vegetables on skewers. This not only adds color but also ensures even cooking.
• High Heat Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve that perfect char on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Give each piece enough space for even cooking and browning.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This lets juices redistribute throughout the meat.

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Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some top choices:

1. Greek Salad: A mix of fresh vegetables topped with feta cheese and olives offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: The cool yogurt-based sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling over your souvlaki.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned oven-roasted potatoes provide hearty texture alongside your grilled chicken.
4. Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with pita bread or vegetables makes for a healthy side option.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites filled with rice and herbs add unique flavors to your meal.
6. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices complements the dish well while adding variety.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and herbs brings a delightful sweetness that pairs nicely.
8. Fried Eggplant Slices: Crispy eggplant adds another layer of texture and flavor that meshes well with chicken souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish.

• Using dry chicken: Ensure the chicken is marinated long enough to absorb flavors. A minimum of one hour is essential, but overnight is best.
• Skipping the soaking of skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Leave a little space between each piece of chicken and vegetables. This helps them cook evenly and get that perfect char.
• Not preheating the grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking. This ensures the chicken cooks quickly and retains moisture.
• Ignoring the veggies: Don’t forget to include colorful vegetables! They not only add nutrition but also enhance flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, but not overcooked.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made with marinated chicken grilled on skewers, often served with pita and tzatziki.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can also use pork, lamb, or beef. Just adjust marinating times based on the type of meat.

How do I make a homemade tzatziki sauce?

To make tzatziki, combine Greek yogurt with minced garlic, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and dill. Mix well and chill before serving.

What sides pair well with Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve this dish with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

How can I customize my souvlaki?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the marinade. You can also try different dipping sauces like hummus or garlic sauce.

Final Thoughts

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not just flavorful; it’s versatile too! You can enjoy it as part of a meal or as a tasty snack. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or dips to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

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