Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that brings the taste of Greece right to your kitchen. This juicy and moist grilled chicken is marinated in garlic, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Chicken Souvlaki is sure to impress. Its standout qualities include being easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for serving with various sides or dips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Souvlaki recipe is simple to follow and can be ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, yogurt, and lemon creates a deliciously tangy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile: Enjoy Chicken Souvlaki on its own, in wraps, or served with rice and veggies for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Souvlaki, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: These are crucial for threading the chicken pieces together, allowing them to cook evenly on the grill.
• Grill: A good grill provides that smoky flavor and perfect char that makes Chicken Souvlaki so enjoyable.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for combining your marinade ingredients easily.

Ingredients

Chicken Souvlaki – juicy and moist grilled Greek chicken souvlaki recipe made with garlic, yogurt, lemon and olive oil. The best chicken on a stick ever!

For the Chicken

• 12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• Ranch dressing (for dipping)

For the Marinade

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour. This prevents them from burning when grilling.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes.
2. Pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients: olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, black pepper, minced garlic, and salt.
4. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Repeat this process until you have four skewers prepared.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Fire up your grill—whether outdoor or indoor—and preheat it to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers until cooked through, brushing them lightly with olive oil during grilling to keep them moist. Serve hot with ranch dressing on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful experience that can elevate your dining occasion. This juicy and flavorful Greek dish pairs well with various sides and condiments, offering a range of tastes and textures.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Greek Salad: A classic combination of cucumber, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil.
• Grilled Peppers: Sweet bell peppers grilled to perfection add a smoky flavor that complements the chicken.

In Pita Bread

• Pita Wraps: Stuff the Chicken Souvlaki into warm pita bread along with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce for a delicious handheld meal.
• Flatbreads: Use homemade or store-bought flatbreads for a soft and chewy base to hold your chicken.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip that adds creaminess and tang to the savory chicken.
• Ranch Dressing: A great choice for those who prefer a milder flavor; it pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken.

As Part of a Platter

• Mediterranean Platter: Assemble a platter with Chicken Souvlaki, olives, hummus, and pita chips for a vibrant appetizer spread.
• Charcuterie Board: Include Chicken Souvlaki as one of the protein options on your charcuterie board alongside cheeses and cured meats.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

Creating the perfect Chicken Souvlaki involves attention to detail in marinating and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic:

• Marinate Well: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor. For best results, marinate overnight in the fridge.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: Opt for high-quality olive oil in your marinade. It enhances flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during grilling.
• Ensure Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform cubes so they cook evenly on the grill. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. This seals in juices and creates a nice char.
• Baste While Grilling: Brush the chicken with olive oil while grilling to keep it juicy and add extra flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste experience, serve Chicken Souvlaki right off the grill while it’s still hot.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Souvlaki can enhance your meal’s flavors and variety. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Lemon Rice Pilaf: A light rice dish flavored with lemon zest that complements the citrus notes in Chicken Souvlaki.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that balances well with grilled chicken.
3. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and feta offers a refreshing contrast to the meat.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Tender zucchinis grilled until slightly charred make for a healthy side dish full of flavor.
5. Tabbouleh Salad: A fresh salad made from parsley, tomatoes, mint, and bulgur wheat adds brightness to your plate.
6. Feta Cheese Dip: Creamy feta dip served with crackers provides an additional layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with Chicken Souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and moisture. Always allow at least 30 minutes for the chicken to soak in the marinade.

• Using dry chicken: If you use chicken that is not properly trimmed or patted dry, it can become tough. Make sure to cut your chicken into even cubes and dry them before marinating.

• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill at once can lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if needed, allowing enough space between each skewer.

• Ignoring the soaking time for skewers: Bamboo skewers can burn easily if not soaked. Soak them in cold water for at least one hour to prevent burning during grilling.

• Not checking for doneness: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• Place cooked Chicken Souvlaki in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a skewer on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and cook skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made with marinated grilled chicken served on skewers. It’s flavorful and perfect as a meal or appetizer.

How do I make authentic Chicken Souvlaki?

To achieve an authentic taste, use traditional Mediterranean ingredients such as Greek yogurt, olive oil, fresh garlic, and lemon juice in your marinade.

Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki in the oven?

Yes! You can prepare Chicken Souvlaki in the oven by broiling it on high heat for about 10-15 minutes while turning occasionally for even cooking.

What should I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Pair your Chicken Souvlaki with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, fresh vegetables, or a Greek salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Souvlaki is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to customize with different spices and marinades. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or snack, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds. Give it a try and feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors!