Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a light lunch, this dish features tender chicken marinated in zesty olive oil and fresh herbs. It delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavor that will impress your family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates the chicken.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this souvlaki is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue, family dinner, or meal prep for the week, this recipe fits right in.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or add your favorite spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling skewers: These are crucial for holding the chicken and veggies together while they cook evenly on the grill.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space for mixing the marinade and tossing the chicken thoroughly.
• Whisk: This tool helps combine all marinade ingredients smoothly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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

For the Skewers

• 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

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 gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while you prepare the skewers.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers. Alternate with pieces of red onion and both types of bell peppers to create colorful combinations.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

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

Step 6: Serve

Remove from grill and serve immediately with warm pita bread alongside creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving authentic Greek chicken souvlaki can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Freshly warmed pita bread is perfect for wrapping around the souvlaki. It adds a soft, chewy texture that complements the juicy chicken.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• Creamy tzatziki made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic brings a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the grilled chicken.

As a Salad Bowl

• Create a vibrant salad by adding lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Top it with chopped souvlaki for a colorful and healthy meal.

Served with Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf pairs well with chicken souvlaki, absorbing the delicious juices and enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.

On Skewers as Party Appetizers

• Serve the chicken skewers as appetizers at your next gathering. They are easy to eat and are sure to be a crowd favorite.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Add grilled vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant on the side for extra color and nutrients while keeping with the Mediterranean theme.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Achieving perfect authentic Greek chicken souvlaki requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for juiciness and flavor.
• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
• Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is adequately preheated before adding the skewers. A hot grill ensures nice sear marks and prevents sticking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Grill the souvlaki for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Overcooking can dry out the chicken.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the souvlaki to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain its juices when you cut into it.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with authentic Greek chicken souvlaki enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned with lemon and oregano; they provide a crispy texture that balances well with grilled meat.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with broth and herbs makes for a light yet satisfying side.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken souvlaki.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with herbs and lemon juice offers a hearty complement to your meal.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These vine-wrapped rice rolls add an authentic touch of Greek cuisine that’s delightful alongside souvlaki.
7. Fried Eggplant Slices: Crispy eggplant slices add variety and richness that enhances your main dish.
8. Spanakopita: Spinach pie wrapped in flaky pastry gives an extra layer of traditional Greek flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken for at least an hour can lead to bland flavors. Always allow enough time for the marinade to penetrate the meat.
• Using dry chicken: Overcooking the chicken can result in dryness. Monitor grill time closely, ensuring the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
• Not pre-soaking skewers: If you forget to soak wooden skewers, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Neglecting vegetable variety: Using only one type of vegetable can limit flavor. Include a mix of bell peppers and onions for added taste and color.
• Ignoring grilling temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature might not give you that desirable char. Aim for medium-high heat for perfect grilling results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instructions

• Place cooled chicken souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place souvlaki on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki that might help clarify any doubts.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can also use pork, lamb, or beef for different flavors.

How do I make my own tzatziki sauce?

To make tzatziki, combine Greek yogurt with minced garlic, cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and dill.

What sides pair well with Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve with Greek salad, rice pilaf, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to two days ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is not only full of vibrant flavors but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Greece right at home!