Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful grilled Greek dish that is perfect for any gathering. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated with garlic, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a flavorful meal, Chicken Souvlaki offers an easy way to enjoy authentic Greek flavors right at home. Its standout quality lies in the simplicity of preparation and the delicious taste that will impress your family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious Chicken Souvlaki ready for dinner.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of yogurt, garlic, and lemon creates a zesty marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, in wraps, or over salads—this dish adapts to your meal preferences!
• Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor grilling or cooking indoors on a grill pan, making it suitable for any season.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, Chicken Souvlaki is a nutritious option that satisfies without guilt.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Chicken Souvlaki, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment can help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: Soaking them prevents burning during grilling and allows for even cooking.
• Grill: Whether outdoor or indoor, it ensures proper heat distribution for perfect grilling results.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl helps combine all marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Basting brush: This tool allows you to easily apply olive oil while grilling for added moisture.

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 while grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes. Pat them dry using paper towels. In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients, including olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ground black pepper, minced garlic, and salt. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and mix well to coat evenly. Allow marinating for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Repeat this process to create a total of four skewers. Set them aside until ready to grill.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Fire up your outdoor or indoor grill on medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook until the chicken is cooked through—typically about 10 minutes. While grilling, use a basting brush to apply olive oil onto the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.

Serve hot with ranch dressing on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Chicken Souvlaki can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

With Tzatziki Sauce

• Tzatziki adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

As a Wrap

• Wrap the chicken in pita bread along with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and onion for a delightful meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken souvlaki over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling and satisfying dish.

On a Salad

• Top a Greek salad with grilled chicken souvlaki for an extra protein boost and vibrant flavors.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best Chicken Souvlaki, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices make a big difference in taste.
• Marinate longer: For even more flavor, let the chicken marinate for several hours or overnight.
• Keep the grill hot: A hot grill helps achieve that delicious char while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd skewers: Leave some space between pieces on the skewer to ensure even cooking.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to maintain juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Souvlaki enhances your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Greek Salad
   A fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil makes a refreshing side.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant roasted until tender add color and nutrients to your plate.

3. Pita Bread
   Warm pita bread is perfect for dipping into sauces or wrapping around chicken souvlaki.

4. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs complements the savory taste of grilled chicken.

5. Hummus
   Creamy hummus served as a dip pairs wonderfully with chicken souvlaki and adds healthy fats to your meal.

6. Fried Potatoes
   Crispy fried potatoes or potato wedges provide an indulgent crunch alongside your grilled dish.

7. Tabbouleh
   A refreshing bulgur wheat salad with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice brightens up your plate.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled enhances summer flavors when served next to chicken souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to bland chicken. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too much chicken on each skewer can hinder even cooking. Stick to four pieces per skewer for best results.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap olive oil or yogurt can ruin the taste. Opt for high-quality olive oil and authentic Greek yogurt for richer flavor.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s not hot enough can result in dry chicken. Preheat your grill properly before cooking.
• Not Soaking Bamboo Skewers: Failing to soak skewers can lead to burning. Soak them in cold water for at least an hour prior to grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• Place cooled Chicken Souvlaki in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish featuring marinated grilled chicken skewers, often served with dips or salads.

How do I make Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, allow the chicken to marinate longer and consider adding herbs like oregano or thyme.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will add more flavor to your Chicken Souvlaki.

How do I serve Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve it hot with sides like tzatziki, pita bread, or fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Souvlaki is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different marinades or serve it alongside various dips and salads. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of Greece!

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

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken Souvlaki

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Chicken Souvlaki is a mouthwatering Greek dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This recipe features juicy, marinated chicken skewers infused with a blend of garlic, yogurt, lemon, and premium olive oil. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, Chicken Souvlaki is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce or fresh salads for a delightful meal that balances taste and nutrition. With its quick preparation time and versatile serving options, you can enjoy authentic Greek flavors right at home any time of the year.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz skinless and boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• 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
• Ranch dressing (for dipping)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken cubes to the marinade, mix well, and let them marinate for 30 minutes.
4. Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer.
5. Preheat the grill on medium-high heat and grill skewers for about 10 minutes until fully cooked.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 88g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg