Chicken Souvlaki
why make this recipe
Chicken Souvlaki is a delicious and easy dish perfect for any occasion. It combines juicy, flavorful chicken with fresh herbs and spices. The best part is that you can enjoy it in just about 30 minutes of prep time, making it great for quick weeknight dinners or fun gatherings with friends. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings and sides, making it a versatile choice.
how to make Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Chicken, 3-4 boneless breast or 12-14 chicken tenders
- 3 tbsp Oregano, fresh leaves, or 1.5 tbsp dried, or mix half-half
- 1 tbsp Garlic, about 4-5 garlic cloves, fresh minced
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/4 Cup Lemon, juice, about 1 large lemon’s juice
- 1/2 tsp Cumin Powder
- 2 tbsp Parsley, fresh leaves, chopped
- 1/2 tsp Chili Flakes
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, freshly cracked
- Oil Spray
- Pita Bread
Directions:
To make the Souvlaki Marinate, take a wide bowl with a lid or a seal-able bag. Add all the ingredients except the chicken. Mix well and set aside. Slice the chicken breast into small 1-2 inch pieces and add them to the marinade. Coat the chicken well with the marinade. Cover the bowl or close the bag, and refrigerate until ready to use. You can marinate it for 20-30 minutes for great flavor, but if you have time, marinating overnight makes it even better.
When you are ready to grill, preheat your grill. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill the chicken on the preheated grill until it is fully cooked on all sides. If you want to serve grilled pita bread on the side, spray oil on the bread and grill it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until you see nice grill marks. Serve everything together and enjoy!
how to serve Chicken Souvlaki
Serve Chicken Souvlaki warm off the grill with grilled pita bread and your favorite toppings like tzatziki sauce, fresh veggies, or extra lemon wedges. You can also serve it over a salad or with rice for a hearty meal.
how to store Chicken Souvlaki
If you have any leftovers, let the Chicken Souvlaki cool down to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, but it’s best to consume it within a month for the best flavor and texture.
tips to make Chicken Souvlaki
- Marinate the chicken longer for more flavor.
- Use skewers soaked in water if you are grilling wooden ones to prevent burning.
- Try adding bell peppers or onions onto the skewers for added flavor and color.
- Adjust the spices to suit your taste; you can make it more or less spicy by changing the chili flakes.
variation
You can swap chicken for lamb or shrimp for a different taste. You can also try using Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamy marinade base.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for Chicken Souvlaki?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating for better results.
2. What can I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?
You can serve it with pita bread, a Greek salad, rice, or even grilled vegetables.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. If it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear, it’s done.
