Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece, you’ve come to the right place! This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about sharing good food with friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a fun weekend gathering, this dish brings everyone together around the table.

The best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes! The tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon, garlic, and fragrant herbs is grilled to perfection, making every bite a delightful experience. Serve it with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce for a truly memorable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken the night before for even more flavor without extra hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as skewers or toss everything into a bowl for a fresh salad.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple and wholesome ingredients will make preparing your souvlaki a breeze! The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will have your kitchen smelling amazing.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 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 Skewering

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
• Spice things up: Add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade if you like heat.
• Change the sauce: Instead of tzatziki, serve with hummus or a yogurt-based dip for variety.

How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful marinade that will infuse your chicken with deliciousness. Don’t forget to add those beautiful chunks of chicken to soak up all those yummy flavors!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight). This step is essential because marinating allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful tastes. You’ll be rewarded with juicy grilled chicken that’s bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Assemble Your Skewers

Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers! Alternate threading chicken pieces with chunks of red onion and bell peppers onto soaked wooden skewers. This not only makes for an eye-catching presentation but also adds extra flavor from roasting those vegetables alongside the chicken.

Step 4: Grill Your Souvlaki

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Place your skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. Grilling gives your souvlaki that signature smoky flavor while ensuring that every bite is juicy!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki warm alongside pita bread and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy each bite filled with love and warmth—a true celebration of Greek cuisine!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Creating the perfect chicken souvlaki can be a rewarding experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!

• Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, let your chicken marinate in the fridge overnight. This allows the herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and herbs make a significant difference in taste compared to dried or bottled versions. Fresh ingredients enhance the vibrant flavors of your souvlaki.

• Skewering Technique: When threading the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, leave a little space between pieces. This helps them cook evenly and get those delicious grill marks.

• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. A preheated grill ensures that you get a nice sear on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, allow your souvlaki to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy.

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Serving your chicken souvlaki is just as important as preparing it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this dish beautifully and make it an enjoyable meal for everyone.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.

• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their souvlaki, enhancing its zesty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta (or a plant-based alternative) tossed with olive oil and oregano. It’s a perfect contrast to the savory chicken.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and garlic is an essential accompaniment for dipping or spreading on pita bread.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender provide a colorful side that complements the grilled flavors perfectly.

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for wrapping around the souvlaki or scooping up tzatziki sauce. You can even grill it for extra flavor!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips at your disposal, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge, making it easy to whip up delicious meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken souvlaki to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep any remaining tzatziki sauce separate in another container for best texture.

Freezing

• Marinated chicken can be frozen before cooking. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• For cooked souvlaki, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat cooked souvlaki, preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Serve with fresh pita and tzatziki for a quick meal!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use different vegetables in my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes based on your preference or seasonal availability.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For the most authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe experience, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more!

What can I serve with my Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Pair your souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh salad, or roasted veggies. Tzatziki sauce is a must-have accompaniment that adds creaminess!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making it easy to prepare healthy meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe brings a taste of Greece right to your kitchen! The tender chicken combined with vibrant herbs creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—don’t forget to share your delicious creations with loved ones. Happy cooking!