Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the sunshine of Greece right to your table, then you’ll love this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing moments with family and friends. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this souvlaki is perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken, marinated in a delightful blend of herbs, is grilled to perfection and served with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce—it’s pure bliss on a plate!

Gather around the grill and enjoy the wonderful aromas wafting through the air as you prepare this dish. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor, making it a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty skewers—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time; it’s even better when the flavors have time to mingle.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, oregano, and lemon creates an irresistible taste that transports you straight to Greece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and full of flavor. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious Greek delight!

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 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey or firm tofu for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Include zucchini or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some chili flakes or paprika for a little heat if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Change up the serving style: Serve with rice or quinoa instead of pita for a hearty meal.

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade is key because it infuses the chicken with amazing flavors while keeping it juicy. Toss in your chicken chunks and let them soak up all those delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes—if you have more time, even better!

Step 2: Prepare Your Skewers

While your chicken marinates, it’s time to prepare your skewers! After soaking your wooden skewers in water (this helps prevent burning), thread on the marinated chicken pieces along with chunks of red onion and bell peppers. This not only adds flavor but also makes for beautiful presentation!

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat. Place your skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has those lovely grill marks. Grilling brings out all those wonderful flavors we love in souvlaki!

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Once cooked, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair these skewers with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping. Gather around with family or friends and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Creating the perfect Chicken Souvlaki is a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose the Right Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish lean and allows the marinade to penetrate deeply, enhancing flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Overnight: For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes the chicken incredibly juicy.

• Soak Your Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill. It’s a simple step that ensures your skewers hold up while cooking.

• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill sears the chicken quickly, locking in moisture and creating those beautiful grill marks. Aim for medium-high heat before placing your skewers on.

• Don’t Overcrowd Your Skewers: Leave a little space between pieces of chicken and veggies. This ensures even cooking and that lovely smoky flavor you crave from grilling.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your Chicken Souvlaki can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this tasty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens each bite.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra squeeze of citrus just before eating, enhancing the flavors even more.
• Sliced Cucumbers: Thinly sliced cucumbers add crunch and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the grilled chicken.

Side Dishes

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and dill pairs perfectly with souvlaki. It not only enhances flavor but also adds a cool contrast to the warm grilled chicken.

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese (or a dairy-free alternative) dressed in olive oil and lemon juice makes for a colorful side that complements your meal beautifully.

• Pita Bread: Warm pita is essential for wrapping around your souvlaki or enjoying alongside it. You can lightly grill or toast them for added warmth and texture.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted with olive oil and herbs make for a hearty side that enhances your Greek feast.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with your homemade Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki! Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your tasty kebabs.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken souvlaki to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled chicken souvlaki in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals until heated.
• Serve with fresh pita and tzatziki sauce for a delightful meal.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I use other meats for the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Yes! While this recipe features chicken, you can substitute with beef or lamb if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.

What is the best way to marinate chicken for the Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

The best method is to combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs in a bowl. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, though longer is better for enhanced flavor.

Can I make tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Tzatziki sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What sides go well with chicken souvlaki?

Consider serving your souvlaki with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread. They complement the flavors beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe in your kitchen! The vibrant flavors and tender chicken will surely transport you to Greece with every bite. Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own by adding your favorite veggies or sides. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy this delightful meal!

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