This Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is super tasty! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection on skewers. Yum!
Serving these souvlaki with warm pita and a fresh salad is my favorite way to eat them. Just imagine those flavors! You’ll feel like you’re in a Greek taverna! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for juiciness, but breasts work too. If you want a healthier option, try turkey. For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute with firm tofu or halloumi cheese, cut into cubes.
Olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil adds flavor and richness. If you’re out, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil, though they may slightly alter the taste.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice is perfect for brightening flavors. If you can’t find fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a good backup. Just use a little less, as it’s often more concentrated.
Herbs: Greek oregano is ideal, but any dried oregano will do. For a fresh kick, you can add chopped fresh parsley or dill. Thyme and cumin are optional, so leave them out if you prefer a simpler flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for great flavor and tenderness. Here’s what to do:
- Mix your marinade ingredients in a bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but aim for 2-3 hours or even overnight for the best results.
- When grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat juicy!
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 165°F (75°C) is ideal!
Following these tips will help you achieve delicious, juicy chicken souvlaki every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🌟
Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating—2-3 hours is even better for flavor. Grill time is around 10 minutes. So, plan for about an hour and a half total, including marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme (if using), cumin (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. It should smell amazing!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let it marinate for 2-3 hours or even overnight if you have the time.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, get your grill or grill pan preheating to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers. Leave a little space between each cube to help them cook evenly. This is where all that wonderful flavor will develop!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
6. Let Them Rest:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, lemon wedges, and tzatziki sauce for dipping if you like. You can also add a refreshing Greek salad on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade Greek chicken souvlaki!
FAQ About Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use pork, lamb, or beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose, as some may require longer grilling times to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Yes! For a vegetarian souvlaki, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or even halloumi cheese. Just make sure to marinate them in the same flavorful mixture and adjust the cooking time accordingly—grill until heated through and nicely charred.
How Do I Store Leftover Souvlaki?
Store any leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a grill or stovetop over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave them, but watch closely so they don’t dry out!
What Pairs Well with Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken souvlaki pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad. You might also serve it with rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider adding some grilled veggies to your skewers!
