The sizzling aroma of marinated chicken wafts through the air as it grills to perfection. Imagine juicy pieces of tender chicken kissed by a blend of spices and herbs that dance on your taste buds while you eagerly await this culinary delight.
Gather your friends and family because nothing says “party” like a platter of Greek chicken souvlaki! This dish brings back memories of lazy summer afternoons spent in the backyard, fire crackling as laughter fills the air. Picture everyone reaching for those golden skewers filled with vibrant veggies and perfectly seasoned chicken; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful and tender it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts, but adjust according to your hungry crowd.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing; choose ripe lemons for best results.
- Olive Oil: A key ingredient that helps keep the chicken juicy while adding richness; opt for extra virgin if possible.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic brings an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced options whenever possible.
- Dried Oregano: A staple in Mediterranean cooking that adds earthy tones; be generous with it for maximum flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the dish; adjust according to taste.
- Pbell Peppers (Red/Green): Adds color and sweetness when grilled; feel free to mix colors for visual appeal.
- Red Onions: Their slight sweetness caramelizes beautifully when grilled; cut them into thick chunks for best results.
- Pita Bread or Rice: Serve alongside for a complete meal that satisfies all cravings; choose whichever you prefer!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Create the Marinade: Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until combined and fragrant to create an aromatic marinade that infuses flavor into the chicken.
Add Chicken to Marinade: Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Toss gently until all pieces are well coated in this zesty goodness.
Marinate Time!: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a resealable bag. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
Prepare Skewers (if using wooden ones): Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning while ensuring your delicious meat stays on track!
Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken pieces onto your prepared skewers along with chunks of bell peppers and onions. Arrange them artfully—make sure they look as good as they taste!
Grill Away!: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). Cook skewers for approximately 10-15 minutes total, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and juices run clear.
These simple steps will guide you through making mouthwatering Greek chicken souvlaki that will impress anyone lucky enough to join your table! Enjoy every juicy bite while reminiscing about warm summer evenings spent with friends and family.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make the best Greek chicken souvlaki, marinate the chicken overnight, then grill skewers until golden brown and juicy. This ensures maximum flavor and tenderness with every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on your skewers, or add some feta cheese for a creamy twist. Personalize it to fit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they remain juicy.
You won’t believe my friends’ faces when I served this dish during our summer BBQ! They couldn’t stop raving about the flavors and kept asking for seconds—definitely a proud cooking moment!
FAQ
What is Greek chicken souvlaki?
Greek chicken souvlaki is marinated grilled chicken skewers, typically served with pita and tzatziki sauce for a delicious Mediterranean experience.
Can I use other meats for souvlaki?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or even shrimp for a unique twist on traditional souvlaki.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating your chicken for at least 2 hours enhances flavor but overnight gives you the best results for tender, flavorful bites.
Delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Delight in the vibrant flavors of Greek chicken souvlaki, featuring juicy marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. This dish is perfect for gatherings and brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into chunks
- 1 large red onion, cut into thick chunks
- Pita bread or rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the marinade until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers with bell peppers and onion chunks.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C) and grill skewers for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and juices run clear.
Notes
- For added variety, consider swapping vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes on your skewers.
- Marinating overnight will enhance flavor and tenderness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
