Why You’ll Love This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready for a taste of the sun-drenched Greek islands? This authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is your ticket to a culinary vacation, right in your own kitchen. Imagine juicy, tender chicken bursting with fresh herbs and lemon, perfectly charred on the grill (or in a skillet!), and served with a vibrant salad or pita bread. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

What makes this recipe special? It’s all about simplicity and fresh, high-quality ingredients. We’re skipping complicated marinades and focusing on the pure, bright flavors of Greece. The result? A dish that’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly quick to prepare, and utterly irresistible. The tender chicken, infused with the aromatic blend of oregano, thyme, and garlic, offers a delightful taste and texture that will leave you craving more. The zesty lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness that perfectly complements the herbs and chicken.

This souvlaki is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or a vibrant summer barbecue. It evokes a feeling of warmth, sunshine, and carefree summer days – the perfect mood booster for any occasion. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to bring a little bit of Greece to your table.

What You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that are readily available at your local grocery store. Here’s a detailed look at each component:

1 1/2 lbs Chicken breasts, boneless, skinless: The star of the show! Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
4 cloves Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here. It adds a pungent, savory depth to the marinade.
1 Green bell pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant green color to your souvlaki.
1 tbsp Oregano, dried: This quintessential Greek herb is essential for that authentic flavor. Use high-quality dried oregano for the best results.
1 Red bell pepper: Provides a contrasting sweetness and beautiful red color alongside the green pepper.
1 Red onion: Adds a sharp bite and a lovely pop of color. A red onion will be milder than a white onion.
1 tsp Thyme, dried: This herb complements the oregano beautifully, adding another layer of earthy aroma.
1/4 cup Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that bright, citrusy tang. Don’t use bottled lemon juice!
Salt and pepper: To season the chicken and enhance its natural flavors.
1/4 cup Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes: Soaking prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Prepare to be amazed by how delicious and easy this authentic Greek chicken souvlaki is!

Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. Tip: Don’t cut them too small, or they’ll dry out.
Make the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Tip: Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning as needed. You want a bright, flavorful balance.
Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. Tip: The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken marinates, chop the bell peppers and red onion into similar-sized pieces as the chicken. Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean, even cuts.
Assemble the souvlaki: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables for a visually appealing and flavorful skewer. Tip: Leave a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Cook the souvlaki: Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or pan-fry the souvlaki for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Tip: For even cooking, rotate the skewers regularly. Use tongs to avoid puncturing the chicken.
Serve: Remove the souvlaki from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad. Tip: Garnish with extra fresh oregano or lemon wedges for an extra touch of freshness.

Tips for Success

Here are a few extra tips to guarantee your Greek chicken souvlaki turns out perfectly every time. Avoiding common mistakes and getting the best results is easy with these helpful hints:

Don’t overcrowd the grill or pan: This will lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Use high-quality ingredients: The taste of your souvlaki depends heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh herbs and good olive oil make all the difference.
Adjust the marinade to your taste: If you prefer a spicier souvlaki, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you like more lemon, add a tablespoon or two more.
Check the chicken for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Let the souvlaki rest: Allowing the souvlaki to rest before serving helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there’s always room for creativity! Here are a few fun variations to explore:

Add other vegetables: Experiment with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with halloumi cheese or firm tofu, marinated in the same mixture.
Lemon-herb marinade variation: Increase the lemon juice to 1/3 cup and add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant citrusy profile.
Honey-mustard glaze: After grilling, brush the souvlaki with a honey-mustard glaze for a sweet and savory twist.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the chicken. For freezing, let the souvlaki cool completely before storing in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about this recipe:

Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones? Yes, you can use metal skewers, but remember to oil them lightly to prevent sticking. Wooden skewers provide a nice smoky flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours or even overnight for deeper flavor. You can also assemble the skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
What if I don’t have a grill? No problem! This recipe works perfectly well in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Can I substitute the herbs? While oregano and thyme are traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or marjoram. However, the classic flavor combination will always be the winner.
How long does it keep in the refrigerator? Properly stored in an airtight container, the leftover souvlaki will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days.

The Final Word

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine – fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious. The ease of preparation, coupled with the stunning taste and aroma, makes it an ideal recipe for any occasion. So why wait? Try this recipe today and transport yourself to the sunny shores of Greece, one bite at a time. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your experience – we’d love to hear from you! And, of course, rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!

Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This recipe delivers juicy and flavorful Greek chicken souvlaki, perfect for a summer barbecue or a light weeknight meal. The marinade infuses the chicken with bright Mediterranean flavors.

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Ingredients

* 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 4 cloves garlic minced
* 1 green bell pepper seeded and diced
* 1 red bell pepper seeded and diced
* 1 red onion diced
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, diced red onion, oregano, thyme, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss well to coat all pieces evenly in the marinade.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours to allow the chicken to fully marinate and absorb the flavors. The longer it marinates, the better!
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your broiler.
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the souvlaki skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. Alternatively, broil the skewers 4-6 inches from the heat source, turning occasionally, until cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the skewers from the grill or broiler and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Serve with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a Greek salad for a complete meal. If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal skewers can be used. Just remember to oil them lightly to prevent sticking.

Simple Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki