There’s something magical about the aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill. With its smoky notes dancing in the air and the promise of juicy bites ahead, this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is your ticket to flavor town. Imagine tender morsels of chicken skewered alongside vibrant veggies, all kissed by the flame—pure bliss.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other meats in this Greek chicken souvlaki recipe?
- How long should I marinate the chicken?
- What sides pair well with Greek chicken souvlaki?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall my first attempt at making this dish, I can still hear my family’s chorus of “Wow!” as they took their first bites. The excitement of that dinner is etched in my memory forever. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
I remember one evening when friends gathered around my backyard grill, eagerly chatting while I prepared this dish. Their delighted reactions made me realize just how special this recipe truly is!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust according to your crowd size and appetite.
- Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richer flavors in your marinade.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides that zesty kick; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on these little flavor bombs.
- Dried Oregano: Mediterranean magic; opt for good quality oregano for optimal flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those lovely flavors.
- Pepper Bell Peppers and Red Onion: These colorful veggies not only look great but add sweetness when grilled.
- Pita Bread or Rice: Serve with warm pita bread or fluffy rice to soak up all those delicious juices.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce is essential for dipping; homemade is best if you have time!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare Your Skewers: While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water if using. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Cut bell peppers and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers alternating with bell peppers and onion chunks for color and flavor balance. Aim for even distribution so everything cooks uniformly.
Preheat Your Grill: Get that grill hot—aim for medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If using a grill pan indoors, preheat over medium heat while you finish assembling skewers.
Grill the Skewers: Place skewers on the grill and cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is charred and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Watch closely to avoid overcooking!
Serve with Tzatziki Sauce: Once grilled to perfection, remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving. Pair with warm pita bread or over rice alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Now you’re ready to dive into this delightful experience! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Greek Chicken Souvlaki—it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken overnight for deep flavor. Grill on high heat for perfect char, then let rest before serving to lock in juices.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken with shrimp or veggies for a delightful twist. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or add feta for extra richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to maintain tenderness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinating the chicken longer intensifies flavors, so plan ahead!
- Always preheat your grill for that perfect sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure juiciness.
There was this one time I made Greek chicken souvlaki for a family gathering, and my aunt couldn’t stop raving about it. She even took leftovers home, claiming she would “experiment” with her own version!
FAQ
Can I use other meats in this Greek chicken souvlaki recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute with pork, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least two hours, ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
What sides pair well with Greek chicken souvlaki?
Serve with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of Greece with this tender Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe, marinated in zesty spices and paired with fresh vegetables for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- Pita bread or rice, for serving
- Tzatziki sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2. Prepare Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Cut bell pepper and onion into bite-sized pieces.
- 3. Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onions.
- 4. Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (375°F/190°C). If using a grill pan indoors, preheat over medium heat.
- 5. Grill Skewers: Cook skewers on the grill for 5-7 minutes per side until chicken is charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- 6. Serve: Let skewers rest briefly before serving with warm pita or rice and tzatziki sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg