Get ready for some tasty bites with Greek Chicken Souvlaki! This dish features juicy chicken skewers marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, grilled to perfection.
Trust me, the smell alone will make your neighbors jealous! I love serving it with warm pita and a refreshing tzatziki sauce. It’s a fun meal that’s easy to share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture, but boneless breasts work too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, go for turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil can be a nice substitute since it also has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you prefer milder garlic, you can use garlic powder instead, but you’ll miss that fresh pop!
Herbs: Greek oregano provides the most authentic taste. If you don’t have it, try regular oregano. For an extra zing, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley at the end.
How Can I Get My Chicken Souvlaki Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken souvlaki is in the marinating process! Make sure to allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least an hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 3-4 hours or even overnight. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Mix your marinade in a bowl and coat the chicken well.
- Always refrigerate the marinating chicken to keep it safe.
- When grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high. This sears the chicken, sealing in moisture.
- Avoid overcrowding on the skewers; give each piece space for even cooking.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling—this helps the juices redistribute for a perfect bite!
Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Skewering:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes to prep and at least 1 hour for marinating. If you can, marinate for 3 to 4 hours or even overnight for the best flavor. Grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. So overall, plan for a delicious meal in under 2 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. This creates a flavorful marinade that will tenderize and infuse your chicken with Mediterranean goodness.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss well, making sure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl, and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour—longer if you can spare the time! This step really boosts the flavor.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Souvlaki:
Place the skewers onto the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in the flavors. Serve your souvlaki hot with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, fresh sliced onions, and juicy tomatoes. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley to make it pop!
Enjoy your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors!
FAQ about Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs yield a juicier result due to their higher fat content, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative. Just keep an eye on them while grilling, as they may cook quicker than thighs.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is even better! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing both taste and tenderness. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge during that time.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken souvlaki pairs wonderfully with warm pita, tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies like tomatoes and onions. You can also serve it alongside a Greek salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
How Should I Store Leftover Souvlaki?
Store any leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps!
