Name: Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber (grated, excess water squeezed out)

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Indulging in Chicken Souvlaki is like embarking on a flavor-packed journey, where succulent chunks of marinated chicken dance with aromatic herbs and spices. Imagine the sizzling sound as they hit the grill, releasing an intoxicating aroma that beckons you closer. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a party on a plate, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners when you want to impress someone special (or just yourself, because you deserve it!).

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Souvlaki at a bustling Greek taverna. The flavors exploded in my mouth like fireworks on New Year’s Eve! I was hooked instantly and determined to recreate that magic at home. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones, this dish will elevate any occasion into something memorable. Get ready for a taste sensation that combines juicy chicken with zesty tzatziki sauce!

Why You'll Love This Chicken Souvlaki

This incredible Chicken Souvlaki transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Souvlaki:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will add richness to your marinade.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
Dried Oregano: This herb adds an authentic Mediterranean flavor that’s hard to resist.

For the Sauce:

Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat yogurt for creaminess that balances well with spices.
Cucumber: Grated cucumber provides freshness and crunch to your sauce.
Salt and Pepper: Adjust these to taste for maximum flavor satisfaction.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chicken Souvlaki:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and toss them in the marinade. Let them soak up those flavors in the fridge for at least one hour—trust me; patience is key here!

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Time to get that grill fired up! Preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using skewers, soak wooden ones in water beforehand so they don’t catch fire during grilling.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Feel free to alternate with cherry tomatoes or bell peppers if you’re feeling fancy—rainbow skewers are always a hit!

Step 4: Grill Away

Place your skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Turn occasionally so they get that beautiful char without burning.

Step 5: Whip Up Tzatziki Sauce

While the chicken is grilling, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it chill in the fridge until serving—the flavors will meld beautifully!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once grilled perfection has been achieved (yes!), transfer your skewers to plates. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or extra lemon wedges if desired.

Now sit back and bask in your culinary glory! Enjoy this Chicken Souvlaki hot off the grill—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

You Must Know About Chicken Souvlaki

This showstopping Chicken Souvlaki delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse those delicious flavors. While it’s soaking up goodness, prepare your veggies and skewers. Once the chicken is marinated, sear it on high heat, then finish cooking on medium for juicy perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you’re feeling adventurous! Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or even a dash of cumin to add a twist. Toss in some grilled vegetables for a colorful flair!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, keeping it juicy and flavorful.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Chicken Souvlaki

This professional-quality Chicken Souvlaki relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Nothing beats the time my friends begged me for this Chicken Souvlaki recipe after devouring every last bite during a summer barbecue; their clean plates were my ultimate badge of honor!

FAQs

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish that consists of marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Traditionally, the chicken is cut into cubes and marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various herbs. This flavorful marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful taste. Served on skewers, Chicken Souvlaki is often accompanied by pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables for a complete meal. It’s an excellent option for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.

How do you make Chicken Souvlaki at home?

Making Chicken Souvlaki at home is simple and enjoyable. Start by cutting boneless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Prepare the marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat until cooked through. Serve with warm pita bread and your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious meal.

What can I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. Tzatziki sauce, made from yogurt, cucumber, and herbs, adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. A Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese also makes a perfect accompaniment. For a lighter option, enjoy Chicken Souvlaki with whole grain wraps filled with fresh veggies.

Is Chicken Souvlaki healthy?

Yes, Chicken Souvlaki can be a healthy choice when prepared correctly. It uses lean protein from chicken breast and incorporates fresh ingredients like herbs and spices. Grilling rather than frying helps reduce excess fat while retaining flavor. Serving it with plenty of vegetables boosts its nutritional value. Additionally, you can use whole-grain pita or skip bread entirely for a lower-carb alternative while enjoying this delicious dish guilt-free.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Souvlaki is not only a flavorful dish but also easy to prepare at home. With its marinated chicken grilled on skewers and served with various sides like tzatziki or Greek salad, it makes for a delightful meal any time of year. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for quick weeknight dinner ideas, Chicken Souvlaki satisfies both taste buds and health goals alike. Enjoy this tasty treat as part of your culinary adventures!