Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your kitchen, then this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is just for you! This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for warm evenings spent with family and friends. Imagine tender pieces of chicken marinated in a zesty blend of herbs, grilled until juicy and flavorful. It’s a meal that works wonderfully on busy weeknights or for special gatherings alike.

What makes this souvlaki so special is the combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Serve it with warm pita bread and a refreshing tzatziki sauce, and you’ll feel like you’ve taken a little trip to the Mediterranean!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love skewers! It’s fun to eat, and the flavors are mild yet tasty enough to please even picky eaters.
• Healthier Choice: With lean chicken breast and plenty of fresh vegetables, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor. It’s great for meal prep or planning ahead for gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or use it as part of a build-your-own pita bar at your next get-together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple and wholesome these ingredients are. They come together to create an authentic taste that will transport you straight to Greece!

For the Chicken 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 Veggies

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks

For Skewering

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can bring an extra layer of freshness to your souvlaki.

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is key because it infuses the chicken with all those delicious flavors while keeping it juicy during cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks into your marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated! Let it sit for at least 15 minutes—this step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

Once marinated, it’s time to skewer your chicken along with red onion and bell peppers. Alternate pieces on wooden skewers for a colorful presentation. This not only looks appealing but also ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Place your skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. This step brings out that wonderful smoky flavor!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove from the grill and let them rest briefly before serving. Pair them with warm pita bread and tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Getting the perfect Chicken Souvlaki is all about attention to detail, so here are a few tips to help you achieve mouthwatering results!

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or even overnight. This enhances the taste and tenderness of the meat.

• Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures your delicious chicken stays securely in place.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, choose fresh herbs and spices. Fresh ingredients can elevate the flavors of your dish and provide a more authentic taste that dried versions may lack.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave some space between each skewer when grilling. This allows for even cooking and gives your chicken that ideal charred flavor without steaming.

• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your Chicken Souvlaki can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this dish beautifully while enhancing its flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, perfectly complementing the savory flavors.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy cucumber yogurt sauce (made with plant-based yogurt if preferred) is a classic pairing. Its coolness contrasts beautifully with the grilled chicken.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese provides a crunchy complement to your souvlaki.
• Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita bread is perfect for wrapping around the souvlaki or scooping up tzatziki. It’s a must-have for any authentic Greek meal!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers can add a wholesome touch to your meal while enhancing its Mediterranean flair.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set to create an authentic Greek dining experience right at home! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Chicken Souvlaki!

Make Ahead and Storage

This authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade flavors all week long. Here’s how to store and manage leftovers to ensure they remain tasty and fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken souvlaki to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover tzatziki sauce in a separate container in the fridge.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken souvlaki.
• Let the chicken cool fully before placing it in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label the bags with the date and contents.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken souvlaki overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat on a stovetop over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe. Here are answers to some common queries!

Can I use other meats instead of chicken for this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Yes! While this recipe specifically uses chicken, you can substitute with beef or turkey if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make my own tzatziki sauce to serve with Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

To make tzatziki sauce, combine plain yogurt (dairy-free alternatives work too), diced cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill or mint. Mix well and refrigerate before serving.

Can I grill the chicken souvlaki indoors?

Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, use a grill pan on your stovetop. Make sure it’s well-heated before adding the skewers for that perfect charred flavor.

What should I serve with my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Serve your souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, or a Greek salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget that homemade tzatziki!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners and is packed with mouthwatering flavors that transport you straight to Greece. Remember, cooking is all about love and sharing joy through food; so have fun with it! Happy grilling!