Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki | Easy Mediterranean Dish

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a traditional dish that combines tender, marinated chicken with vibrant vegetables, all grilled to perfection. Served on skewers, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors, making it a favorite for both casual gatherings and festive occasions. Follow this recipe for a taste of Greece right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients Overview

Proteins:

• Chicken Breasts: 1½ lbs, boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables & Herbs:

• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Green Bell Pepper: 1, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Red Bell Pepper: 1, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Red Onion: 1, cut into wedges
• Dried Oregano: 1 tbsp
• Dried Thyme: 1 tsp

Condiments:

• Fresh Lemon Juice: ¼ cup

Seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Oils:

• Olive Oil: ¼ cup

Other:

• Wooden Skewers: Soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours to enhance the flavor.

2. Assemble the Skewers

1. Alternate Ingredients: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and red onion onto the soaked skewers. Alternate between the chicken and vegetables for a colorful and balanced presentation.
2. Prepare for Grilling: Brush any remaining marinade over the assembled skewers.

3. Grill the Souvlaki

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat to preheat before cooking.
2. Cook the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

4. Serve

1. Presentation: Arrange the skewers on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
2. Pairing: Serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side salad for an authentic Greek dining experience.

Helpful Tips

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, but for the most flavorful results, let it sit for up to four hours. This gives the marinade ample time to infuse the chicken with its aromatic spices and zesty flavors.
2. Uniform Cutting: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. This helps prevent overcooking smaller pieces or undercooking larger ones.
3. Soak Wooden Skewers: Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken and vegetables. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
4. Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is fully preheated to medium-high heat before cooking. A hot grill ensures a nice sear on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor.
5. Turn Frequently: Rotate the skewers every few minutes while grilling to achieve even cooking and a beautiful char on all sides.
6. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice, high-quality olive oil, and fresh garlic enhance the flavor of the marinade. These simple, fresh ingredients are key to authentic Greek souvlaki.
7. Temperature Check: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish for Presentation: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or drizzle a little olive oil over the cooked skewers for an added touch of freshness and a beautiful presentation.
9. Serve Immediately: Souvlaki tastes best hot off the grill, so serve it right away for maximum enjoyment.
10. Pair with Sides: Enhance the dish by serving it with traditional accompaniments like tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a Greek salad.

These tips will ensure your Greek Chicken Souvlaki turns out perfectly every time!

Conservation and Storage

Proper storage of Greek Chicken Souvlaki ensures its flavors and texture remain fresh for when you’re ready to enjoy leftovers or prepare it ahead of time.

1. Refrigeration:
   • Allow the cooked chicken souvlaki to cool completely before storing.
   • Store the skewers in an airtight container or securely wrap them in aluminum foil.
   • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing:
   • For longer storage, remove the cooked chicken and vegetables from the skewers and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
   • Arrange the pieces in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
   • Mark the container with the date and keep it in the freezer for up to two months.
3. Thawing:
   • When ready to use, transfer the frozen souvlaki to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
4. Reheating:
   • Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers or chicken pieces on a baking sheet and heat for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
   • Grill Method: Reheat the skewers on a stovetop grill pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.
   • Microwave Method: For a quick option, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on medium power.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki even days after it’s prepared!

Variations

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some creative variations to try:

1. Lamb Souvlaki:
   • Swap the chicken for tender lamb cubes to create a more traditional version. Marinate the lamb in the same mixture for rich and flavorful results.
2. Vegetarian Souvlaki:
   • Replace the chicken with chunks of halloumi cheese, firm tofu, or portobello mushrooms. These options hold up well on the grill and absorb the marinade beautifully.
3. Seafood Twist:
   • Use shrimp or chunks of firm fish like salmon or cod. Reduce the marinating time to 30 minutes for seafood to prevent it from becoming too acidic.
4. Spicy Souvlaki:
   • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chili powder to the marinade for a spicy kick.
5. Herb Variations:
   • Experiment with different herbs like fresh dill, parsley, or rosemary to add unique flavors to the marinade.
6. Citrus Infusion:
   • Enhance the marinade by adding orange or lime juice alongside the lemon for a refreshing citrus blend.
7. Grain Bowl Option:
   • Serve the grilled chicken and vegetables over a bed of quinoa, rice, or couscous instead of skewers. Drizzle with tzatziki or a lemon tahini dressing for a complete meal.
8. Pita Wraps:
   • Remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and serve them in warm pita bread with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of tzatziki for a hearty wrap.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Whether served as part of a feast or enjoyed on its own, here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

1. Tzatziki Sauce:
   • Serve the skewers with a bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. This tangy dip perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the grilled chicken.
2. Warm Pita Bread:
   • Pair the souvlaki with warm, soft pita bread. Guests can wrap the chicken and vegetables in the pita for a handheld option or use it to scoop up tzatziki.
3. Greek Salad:
   • Add a refreshing Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar for a vibrant side.
4. Rice or Grain Bowls:
   • Serve the skewers over a bed of herbed rice, quinoa, or couscous. Drizzle with a lemon tahini dressing or extra marinade for added flavor.
5. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Pair the souvlaki with a side of roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes.
6. Appetizer Platter:
   • Include the skewers as part of a mezze platter with hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and olives.
7. Wine Pairing:
   • Complement the dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir for an elevated dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are slightly more tender and flavorful than chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare the souvlaki ahead of time?
Absolutely! The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead of time. Assemble the skewers just before grilling to keep the vegetables fresh and vibrant.

Can I cook the souvlaki without a grill?
Yes, you can cook souvlaki in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven. For the stovetop, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked. For the oven, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning once.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with halloumi cheese, firm tofu, or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. Adjust the grilling time to suit your chosen ingredients.

What if I don’t have wooden skewers?
You can use metal skewers, which don’t require soaking. If skewers are unavailable, cook the chicken and vegetables directly on the grill grates or in a grill pan.

How do I keep the chicken moist?
Marinating the chicken ensures it stays juicy. Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Can I freeze leftover souvlaki?
Yes, you can freeze cooked souvlaki in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a timeless dish that brings the vibrant and bold flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its perfectly marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is a delicious combination of simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or just looking for something unique and flavorful, souvlaki is an excellent choice.

The true uniqueness of this dish lies in its adaptability. You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether by adding a spicy twist, trying a vegetarian version, or serving it alongside your favorite sides. The combination of the smoky grilled chicken with the tangy zest of fresh lemon juice and the earthiness of olive oil creates a balance of flavors that’s hard to resist.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki pairs beautifully with classic accompaniments like tzatziki, warm pita bread, and a fresh Greek salad, turning a simple dish into a complete Mediterranean feast. Its ease of preparation and ability to be made ahead of time make it a practical and reliable recipe for both weeknights and special occasions.

Whether you’re recreating the flavors of a Greek taverna or simply exploring new culinary traditions, this dish is sure to impress. Try this authentic recipe today and enjoy the mouthwatering taste of Greece in every bite. Greek Chicken Souvlaki is much more than just a dish. It’s a flavorful experience that brings people together.

Explore another delightful version of this classic dish with the Chicken Souvlaki recipe by Mia Kouppa. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy authentic Mediterranean flavors!

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