Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful dish that showcases the best of Greek cuisine. This juicy and moist grilled chicken recipe combines garlic, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil for an explosion of flavor. Perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home, Chicken Souvlaki is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 40 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious Chicken Souvlaki ready in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors from garlic, lemon, and yogurt.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers on their own or serve them with ranch dressing for dipping.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein, this dish is a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, Chicken Souvlaki fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. This will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: Soaking these in water prevents them from burning on the grill while holding your chicken perfectly.
• Grill: A good grill ensures that your Chicken Souvlaki cooks evenly and gets that lovely charred flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating your chicken while keeping everything contained.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki

• 12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• ranch dressing (for dipping)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour. This step is crucial to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes. Pat them dry, then combine with the marinade ingredients: Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, black pepper, minced garlic, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread four pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Repeat this process until you have four skewers ready.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your outdoor or indoor grill. Grill each skewer until the chicken is cooked through. Brush with olive oil while grilling for extra moisture and flavor. Serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Souvlaki!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your chicken souvlaki experience.

With Fresh Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread makes an excellent base for chicken souvlaki. Simply wrap the grilled chicken in the bread with fresh veggies and sauces for a delicious handheld meal.

Topped with Tzatziki Sauce

• Add a creamy tzatziki sauce for a refreshing touch. This yogurt-based sauce enhances the flavors of the chicken and pairs well with its spices.

On a Salad

• Serve your chicken souvlaki atop a Greek salad. The combination of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives creates a vibrant dish that complements the grilled flavors.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a mezze platter by including hummus, olives, and roasted vegetables alongside your chicken souvlaki. This variety will impress guests with both taste and presentation.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair your chicken souvlaki with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances both dishes wonderfully.

In a Wrap

• Use lavash or flatbreads to create wraps filled with chicken souvlaki, fresh veggies, and sauces. It’s an easy-to-eat option that’s perfect for lunch or picnics.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

Perfecting chicken souvlaki involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. These tips will help you achieve juicy and flavorful skewers every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors from garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.

• Use Skewers Wisely: Soak bamboo skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers work great too!

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave space between skewers on the grill for even cooking. This helps maintain juiciness without steaming them.

• Watch Cooking Time: Grill chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures safety while keeping it tender.

• Baste While Grilling: Brush the chicken with olive oil while grilling for added moisture and flavor enhancement.

• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain juices inside each piece.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with your chicken souvlaki can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in broth with herbs adds a nice texture and flavor contrast.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with lemon and herbs provide heartiness to your meal.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly charred zucchini drizzled with olive oil makes for a healthy side.
5. Hummus: Creamy hummus served with pita chips offers a satisfying dip that pairs well with grilled meats.
6. Tabbouleh: A light salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice brings freshness to the table.
7. Feta Cheese Dip: A tangy dip made from feta cheese blended with yogurt can be served as an appetizer alongside your main dish.
8. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory rolls add an authentic Greek touch to your meal experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Avoid this mistake by allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.

• Using Wooden Skewers Without Soaking: Not soaking bamboo skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them in cold water for an hour before grilling.

• Cutting Uneven Chicken Cubes: Uneven pieces can cook at different rates. Ensure all chicken cubes are similar in size for even cooking.

• Not Preheating the Grill: Grilling on a cold surface can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill properly before adding the skewers.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Keep an eye on your chicken while grilling and use a thermometer for best results.

• Neglecting to Baste: Failing to baste with olive oil can lead to dryness. Brush the chicken regularly while grilling for added moisture and flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• Freeze Chicken Souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for reference.

Reheating 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 until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil, and sauté the chicken until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made of marinated grilled chicken skewers, often served with dips like tzatziki or ranch dressing.

How do I make Chicken Souvlaki more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, increase marination time or add herbs like oregano or thyme into your marinade recipe.

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can substitute pork, lamb, or beef for variety in your souvlaki dishes.

What should I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Serve it with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or a Greek salad for a complete meal that complements its flavors well.

Can I cook Chicken Souvlaki in the oven?

Absolutely! You can bake Chicken Souvlaki at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes on a baking sheet if you don’t have access to a grill.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Souvlaki recipe delivers juicy, flavorful grilled chicken that is perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various marinades or sides. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dish!