Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki: A Delicious Journey to the Mediterranean

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option, look no further than Greek Chicken Souvlaki. This traditional dish features marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes for a versatile meal that can be served in various ways. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for making the best Greek Chicken Souvlaki.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of about 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on skewers, in pita wraps, or over a fresh Greek salad.

Essential Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

To make delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki, gather the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• Use either wooden or metal skewers (if you choose wooden ones, be sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, pepper, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, and Greek yogurt.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and mix well to ensure each piece is coated.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
2. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have soaked in water to prevent burning.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

1. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each piece on the skewer to promote even cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Souvlaki

1. Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
2. Grill for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Chicken Souvlaki is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• In Pita Wraps: Stuff grilled chicken into warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
• Over a Salad: Serve on top of a Greek salad with feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Pair it with fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Health Benefits of Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Nutrients: The marinade includes garlic and lemon juice that provide antioxidants and vitamins beneficial for overall health.
• Low in Carbs: This dish is low in carbohydrates when served without bread or high-carb sides.

Tips for Perfecting Your Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance flavor even more.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your chicken while grilling to prevent it from drying out; use a meat thermometer if necessary.
• Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for added depth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with delicious Mediterranean flavors that will impress family and friends alike.

Gather your ingredients today and embark on a culinary journey to Greece with this delightful dish! Whether enjoyed at a summer barbecue or as part of a cozy family dinner, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is sure to become a favorite in your household.