Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful grilled dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your home. Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this recipe showcases juicy, marinated chicken skewers with an irresistible blend of garlic, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil. You’ll find that Chicken Souvlaki not only pleases the palate but also offers a healthy option that everyone can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer or main course; it pairs well with salads, rice, and dips.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, Chicken Souvlaki fits well into various dietary plans.
- Grilling Fun: Enjoy the outdoor cooking experience while impressing guests with your grilling skills.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this Chicken Souvlaki recipe, it’s essential to gather some tools that will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bamboo skewers
- Grill (outdoor or indoor)
- Bowl for marinating
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Bamboo skewers: Soaking them prevents burning on the grill while providing a sturdy way to grill your chicken.
- Grill: This is crucial for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor which makes Chicken Souvlaki irresistible.
- Bowl for marinating: A good-sized bowl allows all ingredients to combine thoroughly for maximum flavor absorption.
- Basting brush: Use this to apply olive oil during grilling for added moisture and taste.
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 Skewers
- 12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- ranch dressing (for dipping)
- 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 Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Souvlaki
Step 1: Soak the Skewers
Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour. This step helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes. Pat them dry. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ground black pepper, minced garlic, and salt. Marinate the chicken cubes in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each soaked skewer. Repeat until you have four skewers prepared.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Fire up your outdoor or indoor grill. Grill the skewers until the chicken is cooked through. Remember to brush them lightly with olive oil while grilling to enhance flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Once done, serve your delicious Chicken Souvlaki hot with ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki
Serving Chicken Souvlaki is easy and versatile. This flavorful Greek dish can be enjoyed in various ways, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home.
Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce
- Serve your chicken souvlaki on skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. The cool yogurt and cucumber blend perfectly complements the grilled chicken.
Wrapped in Pita Bread
- Wrap the grilled chicken in warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. This makes for a delicious handheld meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
On a Salad
- Place the grilled chicken souvlaki on top of a Greek salad. Add olives, feta cheese, and red onions for a refreshing dish that’s both healthy and filling.
Paired with Rice
- Serve the chicken souvlaki alongside fluffy rice pilaf. The rice absorbs the flavors of the chicken and marinade, making each bite delightful.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Accompany your souvlaki with a mix of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.
As Part of a Meze Platter
- Include Chicken Souvlaki in a meze platter featuring other small dishes like hummus, dolmas, and olives. This is great for entertaining guests.
How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki
To achieve the best Chicken Souvlaki, follow these tips to ensure it’s juicy and packed with flavor.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight enhances its flavor significantly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic, lemon juice, and herbs to elevate the taste profiles of your souvlaki.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave some space between each piece of chicken on the skewer. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. A good sear locks in moisture and creates appetizing grill marks.
- Baste While Cooking: Brush the chicken with olive oil while grilling to retain moisture and add richness.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Souvlaki enhances your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this delicious dish.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic; perfect for dipping or drizzling over your skewers.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs; it’s a great base to soak up flavors from the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: A colorful assortment of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers adds variety to your plate.
- Pita Bread: Soft pita rounds are ideal for wrapping around the chicken or serving alongside as an accompaniment.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that balances out the meal.
- Olives: A small bowl of assorted olives provides a salty contrast that pairs well with grilled meats.
- Hummus: This chickpea dip adds creaminess and is perfect for spreading on pita or enjoying alongside veggies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Souvlaki, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish. Here are mistakes to watch for:
- Using dry chicken – Ensure you cut the chicken into even cubes and marinate it well. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Skipping the marinade – Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It infuses flavor and tenderizes the meat.
- Overcrowding skewers – Threading too many pieces of chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to four pieces per skewer for best results.
- Not soaking skewers – Forgetting to soak bamboo skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak them in water for an hour before use.
- Ignoring grilling time – Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Grill until just cooked through; check with a meat thermometer if necessary.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Souvlaki
- Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Souvlaki
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, monitoring closely.
- Stovetop – Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish featuring marinated chicken grilled on skewers. It’s known for its rich flavor from ingredients like garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
How do you make Chicken Souvlaki tender?
To make Chicken Souvlaki tender, ensure you marinate the chicken adequately. The acid in lemon juice helps break down proteins and enhances tenderness.
Can I bake Chicken Souvlaki instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake Chicken Souvlaki! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
How do I serve Chicken Souvlaki?
Serve Chicken Souvlaki hot off the grill with ranch dressing or tzatziki sauce as dips. Pair it with pita bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.
What other meats can I use for souvlaki?
You can use pork, beef, or lamb as alternatives to chicken in your souvlaki recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on meat type.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize flavors and sides according to your preferences. Whether served at a backyard BBQ or as a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress! Try it today and enjoy the taste of Greece right at home!
Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken Souvlaki is a mouthwatering Greek dish that features juicy, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Infused with flavors of garlic, lemon, and olive oil, this recipe brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, Chicken Souvlaki is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy choice rich in protein and low in carbs. Serve it alongside tzatziki sauce, fresh salads, or warm pita for a delightful meal everyone will love.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (4 skewers) 1x
Ingredients
- 12 oz (350g) skinless, boneless chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- ranch dressing (for dipping)
Instructions
- Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut chicken into even cubes and pat dry. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each soaked skewer.
- Preheat your grill and lightly brush the skewers with olive oil before grilling.
- Grill until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside (about 10-12 minutes).
- Serve hot with ranch dressing or tzatziki sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer approximately 85g
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Pair with fresh vegetables or rice pilaf for a complete meal. Substitute chicken with pork or beef as variations.