Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Recipe Overview
Overview
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lemon garlic mixture, which not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. The process is simple: cut the chicken into uniform cubes, mix the marinade, and let it soak up those delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes.
While the chicken is marinating, you can whip up a homemade tzatziki sauce, which is a must-have accompaniment. Made with fresh cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, and dill, this sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the savory grilled chicken. The combination of the two is simply irresistible.
Grilling the skewers is the final step, and whether you use an outdoor grill or a grill pan, the result is the same: juicy, flavorful chicken with a beautiful char. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, and the leftovers are just as delicious. Serve it with a side salad or some warm pita bread for a complete meal.
Overall, this Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of Greece to your table. It’s easy to make, healthy, and sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for that authentic touch!
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Cut four boneless, skinless chicken breasts into one-and-a-half inch cubes.
Add cubed chicken to a mixing bowl, drizzle with one third cup of olive oil, add two tablespoons of lemon juice, and mince three garlic cloves into the bowl.
Add two teaspoons of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried parsley, one teaspoon of kosher salt, and half a teaspoon of ground black pepper to the bowl.
Mix all ingredients together using hands and let marinate in the fridge.
Tip: Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors permeate.
Grate a medium cucumber and drain it to prevent a watery tzatziki.
Tip: Drain the cucumber to prevent a watery tzatziki.
In a mixing bowl, add one-and-a-half cups of Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, two tablespoons of fresh dill, two minced garlic cloves, two tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and half a teaspoon of kosher salt.
Stir to combine all tzatziki ingredients and let rest in the fridge.
Tip: Make the tzatziki a few hours in advance for better flavor melding.
Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
Tip: Use flat metal skewers to prevent chicken from rotating while grilling.
Heat grill or grill pan to medium high heat.
Cook skewers for three to four minutes on each side until charred and cooked through.
Transfer cooked skewers to a plate.
Tip: Leftovers are great; they can be stored in the fridge for about four to five days.
Transfer tzatziki into a small serving bowl and prepare a side salad.
Add skewers to a plate, serve salad, and add tzatziki on top.
Cut chicken pieces into smaller pieces for easier eating.
Tip: Chicken can be frozen for up to three months.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Yogurt
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Souvlaki means meat on a skewer and is a traditional Greek dish.
- •Marinating chicken in lemon juice and garlic enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- •Using flat metal skewers helps prevent the chicken from rotating while grilling.
- •Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing yogurt-based condiment that complements grilled meats.
- •Chicken souvlaki is perfect for summer grilling and can be made in advance for meal prep.