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 flavorful blend of herbs and spices, grilled to perfection and served with warm pita bread and a side of creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or simply when you crave bold flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy cooks who still want to enjoy homemade meals.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a deliciously vibrant taste.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or serve it with different sides for variety.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and minimal carbs, this recipe fits well into a balanced diet.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated, making it ideal for meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools. These items will help you achieve the best results with your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: They are crucial for holding the chicken and vegetables together while grilling, ensuring even cooking.
• Grill or grill pan: This tool provides the ideal surface for achieving that perfect grilled texture and flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine your marinade ingredients thoroughly before coating the chicken.

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 Vegetables

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks

Additional Items

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing 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. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers alternately with onion and bell pepper chunks.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates if necessary to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the hot 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 for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is a delightful experience that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. Pairing this dish with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and makes for a complete meal.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Enjoy the juicy chicken pieces wrapped in warm pita bread for a comforting bite.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• Serve with creamy tzatziki made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill for a refreshing contrast.

On a Salad

• Lay the chicken over a bed of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a healthy touch.

As Part of a Meze Platter

• Include small portions of various dips and salads alongside your souvlaki for a fun sharing experience.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

To achieve the best chicken souvlaki, follow these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate for Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will elevate the taste more than dried versions.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures that your chicken gets those beautiful char marks while remaining juicy inside.
• Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, allowing you to cook safely.
• Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensuring all chicken pieces are similar in size helps them cook evenly.
• Baste While Cooking: Brush some leftover marinade or olive oil on the chicken while grilling for added moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Pair your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Greek Salad: A fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned with lemon and oregano, these crispy potatoes complement the flavors of the chicken.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers grilled until tender add vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Hummus: This creamy chickpea dip is perfect for spreading on pita bread or enjoying with veggies.
5. Tabbouleh: A light salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice that refreshes your palate.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth and herbs provides a hearty base that pairs well with souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum taste.
• Using dry skewers: Using unsoaked wooden skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many pieces of chicken and vegetables onto one skewer can result in uneven cooking. Leave some space between each piece for better heat distribution.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: Grilling over flames that are too high can char the outside before cooking the inside thoroughly. Aim for medium-high heat for balanced cooking.
• Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Place cooled Chicken Souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

An authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe features marinated chicken grilled on skewers. The marinade typically includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano.

How do I serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers, and creamy tzatziki sauce on the side.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily substitute beef, lamb, or turkey if desired.

How long can I keep leftovers from my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Always store in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe offers a delicious taste of Greece that is perfect for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or serve it alongside different sauces. Give it a try and bring some Mediterranean flavor into your kitchen!