Craving a quick, tasty meal? You’re in luck! This Easy Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings big flavors to your table in no time. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can serve up juicy chicken skewers tonight. Whether you’re entertaining guests or need a family-friendly dish, this recipe is perfect. Let’s dive in and get you grilling!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– Wooden or metal skewers
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
To make chicken souvlaki, you need fresh ingredients that pack a punch. Start with one pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Next, grab three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This adds richness and helps the flavors meld.
Add two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for zest. It brightens the dish and balances the flavors. Then, finely mince three cloves of garlic. Garlic adds depth and aroma. Include one teaspoon of dried oregano and one teaspoon of smoked paprika. These spices give your chicken a classic Mediterranean taste.
Don’t forget one teaspoon of sea salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. These enhance all the flavors in your dish. If you use wooden skewers, soak them for 30 minutes in water. This prevents burning on the grill. If you have metal skewers, you can skip this step. Finally, have some fresh parsley on hand for garnish.
Optional Accompaniments
– Pita bread, warmed
– Creamy tzatziki sauce, for serving
For a complete meal, consider adding warmed pita bread. It’s perfect for wrapping the chicken. Serve with creamy tzatziki sauce for a cool contrast. This sauce adds a fresh taste and balances the warmth of the grilled chicken.
If you want to try this full recipe, check the link for all the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To start, I make the marinade. In a big bowl, I mix eight simple ingredients. I combine:
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
I whisk everything together until blended well. This mix gives the chicken its zesty kick!
Marinating the Chicken
Next, I take 1 pound of chicken breast. I cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. I add the chicken cubes to the marinade. I stir it well so each piece gets coated. After that, I cover the bowl with plastic wrap. I place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For a richer taste, I let it sit for up to 2 hours.
Grilling the Chicken
Now, it’s grilling time! First, I preheat my grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it heats up, I soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning. If I use metal skewers, I skip this step.
Once the grill is ready, I thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. I make sure to leave a small gap between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
I place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes. I turn them often to get nice grill marks. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink.
After grilling, I let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes. This step keeps the chicken juicy. Lastly, I sprinkle the grilled chicken souvlaki with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce for a delicious meal.
If you want to see the complete process, check out the Full Recipe. Enjoy your cooking!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Maximum Flavor
To get the best flavor from your chicken souvlaki, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For even better taste, let it soak up the marinade for up to 2 hours. This extra time allows the herbs and spices to deeply infuse into the chicken.
If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This step helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers do not need soaking but work great, too.
Perfect Grilling Techniques
Grilling chicken souvlaki requires careful heat management. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking and nice grill marks. When placing the skewers on the grill, avoid crowding them. Leave space between each skewer for proper air circulation.
To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut a piece open. The meat should be white, and the juices should run clear.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, arrange the skewers on a large platter. Add lemon wedges and a bowl of tzatziki sauce for dipping. This not only looks appealing but also enhances the meal’s flavor.
Pair your chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread. Fresh salads or roasted vegetables make great sides, too. Enjoying these flavors together creates a delightful meal experience. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
To make chicken souvlaki even more exciting, try different marinades. You can make a spicy version by adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper. For a herby twist, mix in fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. These changes can boost the flavor and make each meal unique.
You can also switch up your protein. Instead of chicken, use beef for a heartier taste. Shrimp is another great option, offering a quick cooking time and a light flavor. Tofu works well too, especially for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you marinate it well to soak up the flavors.
Grill Alternatives
You don’t always need an outdoor grill to enjoy souvlaki. An oven can work just as well. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
If you prefer a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning frequently. For an even faster option, try an air fryer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This method gives you crispy edges while keeping the chicken juicy.
Serving Styles
Skewering extra vegetables can enhance your dish. Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can add color and flavor. Alternating chicken and veggies on skewers makes for a beautiful presentation.
For serving, try a family-style platter. Lay out the skewers with warm pita bread and a bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce. This way, everyone can grab what they like. It makes the meal feel more communal and fun. For a fresh touch, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges, bringing a pop of color to your table.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Store any leftover grilled chicken souvlaki in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. It will last for about three to four days.
For freezing, do not freeze cooked chicken souvlaki. Instead, freeze the marinated chicken raw. This works best if you use a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can stay frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
Reheat chicken souvlaki safely in the oven or on the stove. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
If using the stove, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Stir it gently to avoid burning. This method helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken dry.
FAQs
What is Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken souvlaki is a Greek dish made with marinated chicken grilled on skewers. It has roots in ancient Greece, where people cooked meat over open flames. Today, souvlaki is popular in many places, known for its fresh flavors and quick prep time. It often reflects the Mediterranean way of cooking, which emphasizes fresh ingredients and simple techniques.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
To check chicken doneness, use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into a piece; it should be white all the way through, not pink. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices stay inside, making each bite juicy and tender.
Can I use other meats?
Yes, you can use other meats for souvlaki. Common options include pork, lamb, or beef. You can also try shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian choice. Each protein brings a unique flavor to the dish, so feel free to mix it up. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.
What to serve with Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken souvlaki pairs well with several sides. Try serving it with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce. You can also add a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables for color and crunch. For drinks, consider serving lemonade or a light white wine. These options enhance the flavors of the souvlaki and create a lovely meal.
Where can I find the Full Recipe?
You can find the Full Recipe for easy reference [here](#). This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring you make the best chicken souvlaki possible.
This blog post covered how to prepare tasty chicken souvlaki. We explored key ingredients, simple steps, and tips for great flavor. You learned about variations, cooking methods, and how to store leftovers. It’s easy to make and share this dish with loved ones. I hope you feel ready to grill your chicken souvlaki. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
. This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring you make the best chicken souvlaki possible. This blog post covered how to prepare tasty chicken souvlaki. We explored key ingredients, simple steps, and tips for great flavor. You learned about variations, cooking methods, and how to store leftovers. It’s easy to make and share this dish with loved ones. I hope you feel ready to grill your chicken souvlaki. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!](https://tastyhatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/1ec786b4-ca33-41bf-b3e3-cd1f4145f1c3-250x250.webp)