Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
When I made chicken souvlaki for the first time, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such bold and vibrant flavors. The marinade infused the chicken with a zesty tang of lemon and herbs, and grilling brought out a perfect smoky char.
It was like having a little piece of Greece right in my backyard. Not only was it fun to make, but the end result felt like a restaurant-quality dish. This recipe has become my go-to for hosting BBQ nights or even quick weeknight dinners!
Credit: themediterraneandish
Ingredients
To make the most flavorful chicken souvlaki, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds, cubed into 1-inch cubes): Fresh chicken works best for tenderness and soaking up the flavors.
- â…“ cup olive oil: Acts as the base for the marinade, keeping the chicken juicy while grilling.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon): Adds a tangy zest and tenderizes the meat.
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed: Gives a bold, savory undertone.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: A staple in Greek cooking, this herb brings an earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Elevates the other flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of pep to balance the marinade.
- ½ onion (optional): Adds sweetness and a nice crunch when grilled.
Note: This recipe serves about 4 people, allowing each person to enjoy 1-2 skewers with a side.
Variations
Add your own twist with these swaps and extras:
- Protein swap: Use pork, beef, or lamb to create a different version.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a hint of heat.
- Herb additions: Swap oregano for rosemary or thyme for a fresh twist.
- Dairy-free diners: Skip tzatziki and serve with hummus instead.
- Low-carb wraps: Replace pita bread with lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Cooking Time
Here’s a breakdown of the overall cooking time for this recipe:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 4 hours
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 4 hours and 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
Make sure you have these handy tools:
- Wooden or metal skewers: To hold the chicken pieces while grilling.
- Mixing bowl: For preparing and combining the marinade ingredients.
- Grill or grill pan: For cooking and achieving that signature charred look.
- Tongs: To flip skewers safely and evenly.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping chicken into cubes.
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki?
Making chicken souvlaki is an easy and satisfying process. Let’s break it down step-by-step:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Make sure everything is well combined to coat the chicken evenly. Slice the chicken into evenly sized 1-inch cubes. Add the chicken to the marinade, stirring or tossing to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal it in a freezer bag. Place it in the fridge to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Once your skewers are ready, thread the marinated chicken onto them. You can also add onion slices between the chicken pieces for added sweetness and texture.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates with oil to keep the chicken from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden with slight charring and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a platter. Pair your freshly grilled chicken souvlaki with pita, a dollop of tzatziki, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an irresistible finish! Try something like this tandoori chicken recipe for a unique flavor profile.
Credit: tablefortwoblog
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
I’ve made this recipe many times, and these tips have leveled up my chicken souvlaki:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
- Always use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for its vibrant citrusy flair.
- If possible, grill the chicken outdoors for an authentic smoky char.
- Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a thermometer (165°F is the sweet spot).
- If using metal skewers, keep a pair of oven mitts handy as they can get very hot.
How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki?
Creating a stunning presentation for your chicken souvlaki is simple:
- Serve the skewers straight from the grill on a large platter surrounded by toppings like lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
- Offer warm pita bread on the side for wraps.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for color and added freshness.
- Add a small dish of tzatziki for dipping or drizzling.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional values for one serving:
- Calories: 326
- Protein: 48g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 12g
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is meal-prep friendly!
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
- Storage: Keep leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Store uncooked, marinated chicken in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the skewers on a low grill, or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Chicken souvlaki is a crowd-pleaser, and here’s why:
- Simple ingredients make it budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
- Customizable flavors with endless marinade and topping options.
- Quick cooking time makes it perfect for last-minute dinners.
- Healthy option high in protein and low in carbs!
- Meal-prep friendly, letting you make it ahead without any fuss.
Chicken souvlaki is more than just grilled chicken; it’s an experience. With its bold flavors, tender meat, and endless customization options, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether it’s served for a casual family dinner or a backyard gathering with friends, this Greek delight never fails to impress. You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.
Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Make sure everything is well combined to coat the chicken evenly. Slice the chicken into evenly sized 1-inch cubes. Add the chicken to the marinade, stirring or tossing to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal it in a freezer bag. Place it in the fridge to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Once your skewers are ready, thread the marinated chicken onto them. You can also add onion slices between the chicken pieces for added sweetness and texture.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates with oil to keep the chicken from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden with slight charring and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a platter. Pair your freshly grilled chicken souvlaki with pita, a dollop of tzatziki, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an irresistible finish!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
- Always use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for its vibrant citrusy flair.
- If possible, grill the chicken outdoors for an authentic smoky char.
- Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a thermometer (165°F is the sweet spot).
- If using metal skewers, keep a pair of oven mitts handy as they can get very hot.
