This Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is marinated with lemon, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection on skewers. Yum!
Need a quick dinner fix? Just toss the marinated chicken on the grill and serve it in pita with fresh veggies. Trust me, it’s like a mini vacation to Greece right at your dining table! 🇬🇷
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal here for its tenderness and quick cooking. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option or even use tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor and moisture to the chicken. If you need to avoid olive oil, try avocado oil or grapeseed oil as substitutes.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key for that zing! In a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great depth but don’t fret if you’re out—garlic powder can work too. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.
Herbs: Dried oregano is a classic choice. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning works nicely too. Thyme can be replaced with dried rosemary as well.
How Do I Properly Marinate Chicken for Souvlaki?
The marinating process is crucial for flavor. A solid marinate not only infuses taste but also helps tenderize the chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by mixing all marinade ingredients together in a bowl.
- Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate. A longer marinate (2-4 hours) can deepen the flavor, but even 1 hour will do wonders!
Always make sure the chicken stays in the fridge while marinating to keep it safe.
Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water 30 minutes before grilling)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Sliced red onions and tomato wedges, for serving
- Optional: pita bread and tzatziki sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour for marinating. Once marinated, grilling will take around 10-12 minutes. So, you can expect a total of about 1 hour and 30 minutes (including marinating time) for a delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. This mixture is full of flavor and will keep your chicken juicy!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Make sure to toss everything together to coat the chicken well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, letting it marinate for 2-4 hours will enhance the flavor even more!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes evenly onto the skewers, making sure to leave a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
5. Grill the Souvlaki:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking and to get those beautiful grill marks. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your delicious Chicken Souvlaki with lemon wedges, sliced red onions, and tomato wedges. If you’re feeling extra generous, warm up some pita bread and dish out tzatziki sauce on the side!
Enjoy your tasty, authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki and savor every bite!
FAQ for Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Other Meats for Souvlaki?
Absolutely! While chicken is a classic choice, you can also use lamb, pork, or beef for souvlaki. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the type of meat you choose, ensuring it reaches the proper internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! You can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones. Use about 1/3 of the amount compared to fresh; for example, if the recipe calls for 2 tbsp of fresh parsley, use about 2 tsp of dried parsley instead. Just keep in mind that fresh herbs typically have a brighter flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Souvlaki?
Leftover souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or a bit of olive oil to help keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
