Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your kitchen, look no further! This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe has been a cherished favorite in my family for years. It’s not only simple to prepare, but it also transforms any gathering into a mini Mediterranean feast. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends, this dish has a way of making everyone feel special.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its combination of tender chicken marinated in a delightful mix of herbs and spices. Once grilled, each bite is bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with warm pita bread and a side of creamy tzatziki sauce. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The deliciously seasoned chicken appeals to both kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap proteins to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish keeps you satisfied without the guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that will make this Greek Chicken Souvlaki shine! Most of these items are pantry staples that you might already have on hand.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using cubed tofu or chicken thighs instead of breasts for different textures.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to include zucchini or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is key—it infuses the chicken with incredible flavor while keeping it juicy as it cooks. Toss in the chicken pieces and make sure they’re well coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if you have time) to allow those flavors to really soak in.

Step 2: Assemble Your Skewers

Once your chicken has marinated beautifully, it’s time to assemble your skewers! Alternate threading pieces of chicken with chunks of red onion and bell peppers onto soaked wooden skewers. Not only does this add vibrant color but grilling those veggies alongside the chicken gives them an amazing smoky flavor.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Place your skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Remember, cooking them evenly is important so that every piece stays juicy!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done grilling, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve these delectable souvlakis with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce on the side. Watch as everyone digs in—this dish is sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Creating the perfect Greek chicken souvlaki is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish is delicious and memorable.

• Marinate Longer: While 30 minutes is great, marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness. The longer it sits in the marinade, the more aromatic and flavorful it becomes.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can make a world of difference in your souvlaki. Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil to truly capture the essence of Greek cuisine.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leaving some space between the chicken pieces allows them to cook evenly and develop that beautiful char. This results in a more appealing texture and flavor.

• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill is key to achieving perfectly grilled chicken with those lovely grill marks. It helps to seal in the juices while giving a wonderful smoky flavor.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, allow your souvlaki to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps redistribute the juices throughout the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki can be as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrusy flavor when squeezed over the souvlaki.
• Thinly sliced red onion: Adding raw red onion slices gives a nice crunch and sharpness that complements the savory flavors of grilled chicken.

Side Dishes

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce, made with cucumber, garlic, and dill, is perfect for dipping your souvlaki or drizzling on top. It adds a refreshing contrast to the grilled meat.

• Greek Salad: A simple salad made with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta (or dairy-free cheese) dressed with olive oil and oregano. It’s light yet full of flavor that pairs beautifully with souvlaki.

• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon juice, oregano, and garlic are an excellent accompaniment that brings heartiness to your meal while staying true to Mediterranean flavors.

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is essential for wrapping up pieces of chicken souvlaki along with tzatziki sauce. It’s not only delicious but also makes for a fun eating experience!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade skewers throughout the week! Here’s how to store and make the most of your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken souvlaki to cool completely before storing.
• Place the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze leftovers, remove the chicken from the skewers first.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm up skewers in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them on a grill or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this recipe:

What makes this an Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

This recipe uses traditional Greek herbs and spices like oregano and thyme, along with fresh lemon juice and garlic to create authentic flavors that capture the essence of Greek cuisine.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes based on your preferences. Just be sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

How spicy is this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

This recipe is not spicy at all; it focuses on fresh herbs and lemon for flavor. However, you can add red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!

What should I serve with my chicken souvlaki?

Traditional sides include warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce, but feel free to pair it with a simple salad or rice for a complete meal.

Can I marinate the chicken longer than suggested?

Yes! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavor further. Just make sure not to exceed 24 hours to keep the chicken tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe as much as I do! The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant flavors is truly special, bringing a taste of Greece right to your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to share your creations or any personal twists you add. Happy cooking!