Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is the ultimate grilled dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy and moist chicken marinated in garlic, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, Chicken Souvlaki always impresses. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 40 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, yogurt, and lemon creates a mouthwatering taste that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Chicken Souvlaki as a main dish or serve it in wraps, salads, or alongside rice.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Grill or Oven Ready: Whether you prefer grilling outside or cooking indoors, this recipe adapts easily to your cooking style.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chicken Souvlaki, gather some essential tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Marinade brush
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These are essential for threading the chicken pieces together for grilling.
• Grill: A good grill gives your Chicken Souvlaki that perfect charred taste.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients for the marinade effectively.
• Marinade brush: Useful for applying olive oil while grilling for added flavor.

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)

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
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dipping

• Ranch dressing (for dipping)

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 on the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes.
2. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Marinate the chicken with the marinade ingredients for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

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

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Fire up your outdoor or indoor grill. Grill the skewered chicken until cooked through—about 10 minutes total. While grilling, brush the chicken with olive oil to keep it moist.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Chicken Souvlaki can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and dips that enhance its flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy this juicy Greek chicken.

With Tzatziki Sauce

• Tzatziki is a classic Greek yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It adds a refreshing tang that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

On a Pita

• Warm pita bread makes an excellent base for Chicken Souvlaki. Simply place the skewers inside, add fresh veggies, and drizzle with your favorite sauce for a delicious wrap.

With Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs provides a savory side that balances the spices in Chicken Souvlaki. Serve it alongside for a hearty meal.

Over a Salad

• Create a vibrant salad topped with grilled Chicken Souvlaki. Use mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a refreshing Greek-inspired dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best Chicken Souvlaki, pay attention to these essential tips that ensure juicy and flavorful results.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried or bottled options.
• Soak Skewers: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning on the grill. An hour is usually enough time.
• Grill at High Heat: Cooking over high heat ensures a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
• Don’t Overcook: Monitor cooking time closely; overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Chicken Souvlaki. They not only complement the main dish but also add variety to your plate.

1. Greek Salad: A fresh mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil offers a crunchy contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted until tender bring color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Hummus: Creamy hummus made from chickpeas adds richness when served as a dip alongside Chicken Souvlaki.
4. Lemon Potatoes: Roasted potatoes tossed in lemon juice and herbs enhance the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
5. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, spinach, and feta provides an easy-to-make side that’s always popular.
6. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips are perfect for dipping into sauces like tzatziki or hummus while enjoying your souvlaki meal.
7. Couscous: Fluffy couscous with herbs is quick to prepare and serves as an excellent bed for your chicken skewers.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled creates a delightful summer side paired with Chicken Souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Souvlaki, small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.
• Using cold chicken: Always use chicken that is at room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and prevents the outside from burning while the inside remains raw.
• Overcrowding the skewers: When threading the chicken, leave a little space between each piece. This allows for better heat circulation and promotes even cooking.
• Not soaking skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for an hour before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated before adding the chicken. A hot grill sears the meat quickly, sealing in juices and enhancing flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• You can freeze uncooked marinated chicken souvlaki.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will remain good for up to 3 months.

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 the souvlaki on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made of marinated grilled chicken, typically served on skewers. The marinade often includes ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Can I make Chicken Souvlaki in the oven?

Yes! You can prepare Chicken Souvlaki in the oven by broiling it or baking it at a high temperature. Just ensure you keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

How do I know when Chicken Souvlaki is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. You can check this with a meat thermometer.

What can I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki pairs well with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, salads, or grilled vegetables. Feel free to customize your side dishes based on your preferences!

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Absolutely! While chicken is popular, you can substitute pork, beef, or lamb for different flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe offers juicy and flavorful grilled chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize with various marinades or sides to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to enjoy this delicious dish at home—your family will love it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Souvlaki

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Chicken Souvlaki is a deliciously grilled Greek dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil, this tender chicken on skewers is perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive summer barbecues. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with mouthwatering taste but also ensures it remains juicy and moist throughout the grilling process. Quick to prepare and versatile in serving options, Chicken Souvlaki can be enjoyed on its own, wrapped in pita bread, or served alongside fresh salads and rice. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz skinless, boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour.
2. Cut chicken into equal-sized cubes and pat dry.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your grill. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill chicken skewers over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, brushing with olive oil as needed until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
6. Serve hot with ranch dressing or tzatziki sauce on the side.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (113g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 90mg