Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delicious street food-style dish perfect for any occasion. Its tender, marinated grilled chicken combined with fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce makes it an appealing choice for quick dinners, summer barbecues, or gatherings with friends. The vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean truly shine through in this dish, making it a standout option that everyone will love.

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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
• For the Marinade
• For Serving
• For Garnish
• How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare Skewers
• Step 3: Grill Method
• Step 4: Oven Method
• Step 5: Assemble and Serve
• How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Classic Pita Wrap
• Tzatziki Dip
• Greek Salad
• Rice Pilaf
• Roasted Vegetables
• Lemon Wedges
• How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• How do I make my Greek Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?
• Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
• Is there a vegetarian version of Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• What should I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just over an hour, you can easily whip up this delightful meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Marinade: The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy your chicken souvlaki in pita bread or over a salad; it’s versatile enough to suit any meal preference.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor cooking, this recipe shines on the grill, offering that smoky flavor we all crave during summer nights.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Greek Chicken Souvlaki effectively, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or oven
• Zip-top bag or bowl
• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (if using oven method)
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or oven: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and achieving that perfect char.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Great for marinating as it allows the chicken to soak up flavors thoroughly.
• Skewers: Help to hold the chicken pieces together while cooking, ensuring even grilling.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Serving

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 plum tomatoes, sliced
• Tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread (khubz)
• Lemon slices, for squeezing

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the cubed chicken in a large zip-top bag or bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag (removing excess air) and toss to coat thoroughly. Refrigerate for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Skewers

Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread onto skewers. Make sure to leave space between each piece for even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 3: Grill Method

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 163°F. Baste once with reserved marinade while grilling (remember to discard any leftover marinade). After grilling, let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Step 4: Oven Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken cubes on a greased baking sheet in a single layer. Bake on the top oven rack for approximately 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked through at an internal temperature of 163°F. Allow resting for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Serve your grilled chicken on warm pita bread topped with sliced tomatoes, red onions, tzatziki sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added zest.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki is an opportunity to showcase vibrant flavors and textures. It’s versatile, allowing for a range of accompaniments that elevate the dish. Here are some delicious serving ideas.

Classic Pita Wrap

• Warm pita bread filled with grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce makes for a satisfying meal.

Tzatziki Dip

• Serve additional tzatziki on the side for dipping. Its creamy texture complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Greek Salad

• A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese adds a crunchy contrast to the tender meat.

Rice Pilaf

• Pair the souvlaki with fluffy rice pilaf for a hearty side. Seasoned rice enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.

Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a colorful and healthy addition to your plate, balancing the meal.

Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty kick when squeezed over the chicken before serving.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best Greek Chicken Souvlaki, pay attention to the details in preparation and cooking. Here are some essential tips for perfecting your dish.

• Marinate properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 45 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
• Don’t overcrowd skewers: Leave space between chicken pieces on skewers to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve a nice char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Rest after grilling: Letting the chicken rest post-cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
• Try different proteins: Feel free to experiment with lamb or shrimp for variations on this classic dish.
• Garnish creatively: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill as a finishing touch for extra flavor and presentation.

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Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with complementary sides enhances its appeal. Here are some excellent side dishes that work wonderfully together.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil offers freshness alongside your souvlaki.
2. Hummus & Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips creates a delightful appetizer or snack option.
3. Stuffed Grape Leaves: Dolmas filled with rice and herbs add an authentic touch to your meal spread.
4. Fried Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters bring texture contrast and are perfect for dipping into tzatziki sauce.
5. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This protein-rich salad can be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Herb-roasted potatoes seasoned with oregano make for a comforting side that pairs well with grilled meats.
7. Tabbouleh Salad: A light salad of bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, and tomatoes adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and spices brings an element of fun and flavor when grilled alongside your souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 45 minutes for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too many pieces on one skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave space between pieces to ensure they grill properly.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Failing to check internal temperature can result in undercooked chicken. Always confirm it reaches 163°F before serving.
• Using High Heat Without Preparation: Starting with a hot grill without oiling it can cause sticking. Clean and oil the grates beforehand for better results.
• Not Resting the Chicken Post-Grilling: Serving chicken immediately after grilling can lead to dryness. Let it rest for 5 minutes to retain moisture.

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 Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-friendly bag.
• item Frozen Greek Chicken Souvlaki is best used within 2 months.

Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking.
• item Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warmed evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a popular street food dish made from marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, often served with pita bread and tzatziki.

How do I make my Greek Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, let your chicken marinate longer or add extra spices like paprika or cumin to the marinade mix.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can also use lamb, pork, or beef, adjusting marinade times accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with firm tofu or veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a tasty vegetarian option.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Pair it with sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices as you see fit. This recipe makes for an excellent quick meal or summer barbecue dish. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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