Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki brings the delightful taste of Greece right to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for grilling season or any gathering, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with warm pita and creamy tzatziki. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy yet flavorful Mediterranean meal.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Veggies
• For Garnish
• How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
• Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
• Step 5: Grill the Skewers
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• With Warm Pita Bread
• On a Bed of Rice
• In a Fresh Salad
• Paired with Tzatziki Sauce
• Alongside Grilled Vegetables
• In a Wrap
• How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
• How do I serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
• What sides pair well with this dish?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This souvlaki recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors that are sure to please everyone’s palate.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course, in a salad, or wrapped in pita bread—this dish adapts to any occasion!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Grill-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor cooking, it brings a smoky flavor that elevates your summer barbecues.

Tools and Preparation

To make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki, having the right tools can simplify the process. Here are the essential items you’ll need for preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: These are essential for holding your chicken and vegetables together while they cook evenly on the grill.
• Grill or grill pan: A good grill ensures proper cooking and adds a delicious char to your souvlaki.
• Large mixing bowl: This allows ample space for marinating the chicken without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the marinade thoroughly to ensure all flavors blend well.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ 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 Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade. Toss them gently to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while your chicken marinates.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers. Alternate pieces of red onion and bell peppers with the chicken for added color and flavor.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender with slight charring.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from grill and serve immediately with warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that complement its vibrant flavors.

With Warm Pita Bread

• Pita pockets are perfect for wrapping around the chicken souvlaki, making it easy to eat. Add some tzatziki for a refreshing taste.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the grilled chicken skewers over fluffy rice. This combination absorbs the marinade’s flavors, creating a satisfying meal.

In a Fresh Salad

• Create a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Top it with souvlaki pieces for extra protein.

Paired with Tzatziki Sauce

• No Greek meal is complete without tzatziki. This creamy yogurt sauce adds a cool contrast to the grilled souvlaki.

Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Pair your chicken skewers with other grilled veggies like zucchini and eggplant. These add color and flavor to your plate.

In a Wrap

• Use large pita or flatbreads to wrap the souvlaki along with fresh veggies and sauces. This makes for a handy meal on-the-go.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To achieve the best results with your souvlaki, follow these tips for maximum flavor and juiciness.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking to achieve perfect grill marks and avoid sticking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and spices; they’ll enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Space out the chicken pieces on skewers to promote even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Rotate Regularly: Turn the skewers frequently while grilling to ensure all sides are cooked evenly.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices when cutting into them.

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Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with your Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Salad: A classic mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil.
2. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in lemon juice and broth adds zesty flavor that complements the souvlaki.
3. Grilled Eggplant: Lightly seasoned eggplant slices grilled until tender make for a delicious side.
4. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus varieties served with pita chips or veggies offers a creamy contrast.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs create a hearty side that pairs well with grilled meats.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These vine leaves filled with rice and herbs provide an authentic touch to your meal.
7. Feta Cheese Dip: A creamy dip made from feta cheese enhances the Mediterranean flavors on your plate.
8. Olive Tapenade: A savory spread made from olives adds depth and richness alongside your chicken souvlaki.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always allow at least one hour for marinating, or overnight for the best taste.
• Using Dry Chicken: Overcooking the chicken makes it dry. Keep an eye on the grill and cook just until fully done.
• Neglecting Skewer Preparation: Not soaking wooden skewers can lead to burnt sticks. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can affect flavor. Always choose fresh herbs and produce for the best results.
• Ignoring Vegetable Sizes: Cutting vegetables too small can cause them to burn on the grill. Cut them into large chunks that cook evenly with the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken souvlaki on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is a popular dish made of marinated chicken skewered with vegetables and grilled. It’s known for its vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option while following similar marinating instructions.

How do I serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve it with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side salad for a complete meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Sides like Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or rice pilaf complement authentic Greek chicken souvlaki beautifully, enhancing its Mediterranean charm.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time on cooking day.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough to customize with different veggies or proteins, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and savor the taste of Greece right at home!

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