Chicken Souvlaki

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its juicy, tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil and spices, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of warm pita bread, fresh Greek salad, and creamy tzatziki sauce makes it a versatile meal option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish quickly.
• Flavorful Marinade: The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with pita, salad, or on its own—perfect for any meal!
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Souvlaki preparation smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Zip-top bag
• Wooden skewers
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides even cooking and searing that enhances flavor.
• Zip-top bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
• Wooden skewers: Perfect for threading chicken pieces, ensuring easy grilling.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces)

To Serve

• Flatbreads
• Tzatziki
• Greek Salad

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a zip-top bag, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and ground black pepper to create the marinade. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breast pieces into the bag, ensuring any excess air is removed before sealing. Gently massage the bag to ensure the marinade fully coats each piece of chicken.

Step 3: Chill in Refrigerator

Place the bag in the refrigerator and leave it to marinate for a minimum of one hour, up to a maximum of four hours.

Step 4: Soak Skewers

Prior to grilling, soak wooden skewers in water for approximately 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning.

Step 5: Thread Chicken onto Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto the pre-soaked skewers.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan. Apply a small amount of oil to the grill grates or the grill pan to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Grill the Chicken Skewers

Once hot, add the chicken skewers to the grill or pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove the chicken skewers from the grill or pan and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help retain juices and keep it moist.

Step 9: Serve Your Dish

Serve the Chicken Souvlaki with flatbreads, Greek salad, and tzatziki sauce for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Chicken Souvlaki is all about enhancing its delicious flavors with the right accompaniments. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy this dish that will surely impress your guests.

With Warm Flatbreads

• Serve the Chicken Souvlaki in soft flatbreads for a fun wrap-style meal. Add fresh vegetables and sauces for an extra flavor boost.

Accompanied by Greek Salad

• A refreshing Greek salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese pairs perfectly with Chicken Souvlaki. The crispness of the salad complements the juicy chicken beautifully.

Dipped in Tzatziki Sauce

• Creamy tzatziki sauce is a must-have! Its yogurt base, combined with cucumbers and garlic, adds a cool contrast to the warm skewers.

On a Platter

• Present the Chicken Souvlaki on a large platter surrounded by sides like olives and roasted vegetables. This creates a beautiful centerpiece for gatherings.

As Part of a Mezze Spread

• Include Chicken Souvlaki in a mezze spread featuring hummus, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves. It makes for a delightful multi-course experience.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

Perfecting your Chicken Souvlaki ensures that every bite is tender and flavorful. Here are some handy tips to achieve that ideal dish.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least four hours will intensify its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ingredients enhance the taste of your marinade, making it more vibrant.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure that your grill or grill pan is adequately preheated. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks and seals in moisture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, avoid overcrowding the skewers. This allows even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for five minutes after cooking helps retain its juices for optimal moistness.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing Chicken Souvlaki with complementary side dishes elevates your meal experience. Consider these options to serve alongside your skewers.

1. Greek Salad – A classic combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil.
2. Hummus – A smooth chickpea dip that’s perfect for spreading on flatbreads or vegetables.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted until tender and caramelized.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and spices adds a hearty element to your meal.
5. Pasta Salad – Cold pasta mixed with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing complements the grilled flavors of the souvlaki.
6. Spanakopita – These flaky spinach pies add a deliciously savory touch to your meal lineup.
7. Fried Potatoes – Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until charred enhances any summer meal outdoors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Bold marinade mix: Skipping the marinating step can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least one hour for maximum flavor.
• Bold using dry skewers: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can cause them to burn. Always soak them in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling.
• Bold overcrowding the grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill at once can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure each piece cooks properly.
• Bold ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
• Bold skipping side dishes: Neglecting to serve with sides like Greek salad and tzatziki can miss out on enhancing the meal’s flavors. Pair your Chicken Souvlaki with these classic accompaniments.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• Place cooked Chicken Souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made of marinated chicken pieces grilled on skewers. It is often served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.

How do I make Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cumin to your marinade, or let the chicken marinate overnight for deeper taste.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe features chicken, you can substitute with lamb, turkey, or beef if preferred.

How should I serve Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh Greek salad, and a side of tzatziki sauce for an authentic experience.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Souvlaki?

In addition to tzatziki and salad, consider serving with roasted vegetables or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the marinade and serve it with various sides according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!