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 delightful blend of herbs and spices, grilled to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual gatherings. The standout qualities include its vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation that makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can quickly whip up a delicious meal.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Grill or Oven Friendly: You can easily cook these skewers on the grill or in the oven, making them versatile.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive barbecue, this dish fits right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or serve with different sides based on your preferences.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or oven
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Soaking these helps prevent burning while grilling.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl is necessary for marinating the chicken evenly.
• Grill or oven: Both options allow you to achieve that perfect char while retaining moisture in 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 Veggies

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

Skewers

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until well mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade. Ensure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers. Alternate with chunks of red onion and bell peppers for added flavor and color.

Step 4: Grill or Bake

Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). If using an oven, bake at 400°F for similar times.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat. Serve warm with pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek experience! Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy this dish.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Soft and fluffy pita bread is perfect for wrapping around the grilled chicken. It adds a comforting texture and makes it easy to eat.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• This creamy yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic complements the flavors of the souvlaki beautifully. A generous dollop on top adds freshness.

Fresh Greek Salad

• A vibrant salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese provides a refreshing contrast. The acidity from the dressing brightens the meal.

Served Over Rice

• Fluffy rice is a great base for the souvlaki. You can even flavor it with lemon juice and herbs for an extra layer of taste.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Charred vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers make a colorful side. They add smoky flavors that pair well with chicken.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Perfecting your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours or overnight intensifies the flavor, making each bite more delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality olive oil elevate the taste of your dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before placing the skewers will give you those perfect char marks and help seal in juices.

• Avoid Overcrowding Skewers: Leave a little space between each piece of chicken on your skewer to promote even cooking and better browning.

Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Pairing sides with your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki enhances its flavor. Consider these delicious options:

1. Greek Lemon Potatoes
   Roasted potatoes tossed in lemon juice and oregano provide a zesty complement to the meal.

2. Hummus
   Creamy hummus works as a dip or spread for pita bread, adding richness that pairs well with grilled flavors.

3. Feta Cheese Platter
   A selection of feta served with olives and sliced tomatoes offers a salty contrast that balances the meal perfectly.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender add freshness and crunch to your plate.

5. Tabbouleh Salad
   This herbaceous salad made from parsley, mint, bulgur wheat, and tomatoes brings brightness to each bite.

6. Baba Ganoush
   The smoky flavor of this eggplant dip serves as another great choice for dipping or spreading on pita.

7. Pickled Vegetables
   A tangy assortment of pickled veggies adds an exciting crunch and acidity that cuts through richer elements of the meal.

8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These savory bites filled with rice and herbs make for an excellent appetizer or side dish alongside souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum taste.
• Using dry wooden skewers: If the skewers are not soaked, they can burn or break while grilling. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Putting too much chicken and vegetables on one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Use separate skewers for chicken and veggies to ensure even grilling.
• Ignoring doneness: Not checking if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Choosing the wrong cut of chicken: Using bone-in or skin-on chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Stick with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Place the souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place souvlaki on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Serve it with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce for an authentic experience.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this is an authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe, you can also use pork or lamb as alternatives.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; overnight is ideal for deeper flavor.

What sides pair well with Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or grilled vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe captures the essence of Greek cuisine with its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or sauces, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious taste of Greece at home!