Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Greece, then you’re in for a treat with this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe. There’s something so special about marinating tender chicken in a mix of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, then grilling it to perfection. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or fun family gatherings. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delicious flavors and great memories.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make! You can whip up these skewers in no time at all, and they are sure to impress your family and friends. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings a taste of Greece right to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious dinner ready in half an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun of eating grilled skewers, making this a hit at any family meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken the night before for an even richer flavor—perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful and Healthy: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe are simple and wholesome. Each one brings its own unique flavor to the table, creating a deliciously balanced dish that everyone will enjoy.

For the Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Skewers

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients or swap out certain elements based on what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or firm tofu for a different take while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
• Add more veggies: Consider adding zucchini or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Change up the sides: Serve alongside quinoa salad or grilled veggies instead of pita bread.

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by making your marinade. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This blend infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors that are oh-so-Greek! Add your chicken chunks to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if you can!)—this step is key for juicy, flavorful skewers.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While your chicken is soaking up those lovely flavors, it’s time to prep your veggies. Cut your onion and bell peppers into chunks similar in size to your chicken pieces. This way, everything cooks evenly on the grill. Plus, they’ll add beautiful colors and textures alongside your souvlaki!

Step 3: Assemble Your Skewers

Once marinated, it’s time to assemble! Take your soaked wooden skewers and alternate threading on pieces of chicken with those colorful veggies. Not only does this look great on the grill, but it also allows all those flavors to mingle as they cook.

Step 4: Grill Away!

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, place your skewers on the grill grates. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. Remember to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly! The smell will be irresistible!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your souvlaki with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy every bite as you savor a little taste of Greece at home!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Cooking chicken souvlaki can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices amplify the flavor of your marinade, giving your chicken that authentic Greek taste that frozen or dried ingredients simply can’t match.

• Marinate for longer: For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

• Soak your skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures your chicken stays securely on the skewer while cooking.

• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. A well-heated grill creates beautiful sear marks and helps lock in moisture, giving you juicy chicken every time.

• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leave some space between each piece of chicken and vegetables on the skewer. This allows for even cooking and better caramelization of each ingredient.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your chicken souvlaki is just as important as making it! With a little creativity, you can impress your family or guests with a beautifully presented dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the plate.
• Sliced lemons: Lemon wedges not only look appealing but also allow guests to squeeze fresh juice over their souvlaki for an extra zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta (optional) tossed in olive oil and lemon juice perfectly complements the flavors of souvlaki.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy cucumber yogurt sauce is a classic pairing. You can make a dairy-free version using coconut yogurt or cashew cream for a delicious dip.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these seasoned roasted potatoes are hearty enough to balance out the lightness of souvlaki.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread serves as a perfect vessel for wrapping up pieces of chicken and veggies, bringing everything together in one delicious bite.

Enjoy creating this authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe with these helpful tips and serving suggestions! You’ll transport yourself straight to Greece with every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for meal prep! The marinated chicken can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, flavorful skewers ready whenever you need them. Here are some practical tips for storing and enjoying your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It can be kept for up to 3 days without losing its delicious flavor.
• Be sure to separate the chicken from any accompanying sauces or sides to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking.
• Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will last up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Reheating

• To reheat cooked chicken souvlaki, 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.
• You can also reheat on a grill or stovetop pan for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this dish.

Can I use different vegetables in my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms would all make excellent additions.

How long should I marinate the chicken for my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating for several hours or overnight will enhance the taste even more.

Can I make this recipe with boneless thighs instead of breast?

Yes! Boneless thighs are a great alternative that adds extra juiciness and flavor to your souvlaki. Just adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a minute longer than breasts.

What can I serve with my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve it with warm pita bread, fresh salads, or even rice. Don’t forget a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce for that authentic touch!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also ideal for meal prepping. You can easily store leftovers or freeze portions for future meals.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of Greece into your home while sharing delicious food with loved ones. Whether you’re grilling up skewers for an outdoor gathering or prepping meals for the week ahead, this dish is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!