Name: Delicious Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Wooden skewers (soaked in water if grilling)

When it comes to savoring delightful flavors and easy-to-make meals, nothing beats a classic Chicken Souvlaki recipe. Originating from sunny Greece, this dish combines tender, marinated chicken skewers with a hint of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and a touch of garlic. It’s a simple yet captivating way to indulge your taste buds and impress your family or guests. What’s more, Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions.

The appeal of Chicken Souvlaki lies in its ability to combine wholesome ingredients with mouthwatering flavor in just a few simple steps. Once marinated, the chicken pieces are simply threaded onto skewers and grilled until perfectly charred, resulting in succulent bites that are bursting with flavor. Pair it with a side of fresh Greek salad or some warm pita bread for a complete meal that will take you straight to the Mediterranean.

Unlike many complex recipes, this Chicken Souvlaki dish comes together with moderate prep time and minimal ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a dinner party or outdoor barbecue. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate lean protein into your meals while keeping them flavorful and fulfilling. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a tasty dish for dinner or impress guests at your next gathering, this Chicken Souvlaki recipe is sure to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Souvlaki

Flavorful: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs creates a tantalizing taste that elevates grilled chicken to a whole new level.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 10 minutes (plus marinating), you can have this dish on the table in no time!
Versatile: Serve it with a variety of sides, from rice to salads, making it suitable for any occasion.
Healthy Option: Chicken Souvlaki is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
Fun to Eat: Skewers make this dish fun for both adults and kids while adding a casual vibe to any meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth sailing. First and foremost, ensure your workspace is clean and organized to make the cooking process efficient and enjoyable.

Start by marinating the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag—this method allows the flavors to penetrate thoroughly. To enhance your grilling experience, consider using wooden skewers, which need to be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling; this prevents them from catching fire on the grill. If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal skewers work perfectly as well.

Next, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, a simple water drop test can help—if drops sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s time to grill! Gather a pair of tongs for easy flipping and a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Wooden skewers (soaked in water if grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing your marinade. In a large bowl or resealable bag, mix together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake the ingredients until they are well combined. Then, add the chicken cubes into the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are fully coated. For best results, allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; however, letting it sit for 2-4 hours creates even more flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop those delicious charred marks that make each bite so appealing.

Step 3: Skewer and Grill

Once the chicken has marinated sufficiently, it’s time to thread the pieces onto soaked wooden skewers. Aim to skewer 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer, but don’t overcrowd them. This ensures even cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for 2-3 minutes to retain moisture and flavors.

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with beef or shrimp for a different flavor experience.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for additional depth.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s key to achieving tenderness and flavor.
If using wooden skewers, soak them thoroughly to prevent burning.
Grilling over direct heat produces better char marks.
For those with less time, marinate the chicken in the morning for evening grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping; it complements the spices beautifully.
Pile onto warm pita bread with fresh veggies and feta cheese for a hearty wrap.

Tips

For extra flavor, reserve some marinade before adding chicken to use as a baste while grilling.
Feel free to grill a variety of proteins and veggies to suit everyone’s tastes.
Make a double batch to enjoy leftovers, perfect for salads or wraps the next day.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes (plus marinating)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 265 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier result due to their higher fat content.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is required, but for optimal flavor, aim for 2-4 hours.

Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a grill pan works beautifully; just ensure it’s preheated properly.

What should I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve with Greek salad, rice, or warm pita bread along with tzatziki sauce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Chicken Souvlaki recipe is the perfect blend of flavor, ease, and nutritional value. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, it’s a fantastic option for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend gatherings. Delight your guests with these delicious skewers, and don’t hesitate to try out different variations based on your preferences. As the summer approaches or for any grilled meal, consider adding this delightful recipe to your go-to meals. We encourage you to give it a try, leave your feedback, and share your unique twists on this classic dish with us!