Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade: 5 Bold Flavors to Love

Name: Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes

When you think of summer barbecues, there’s a good chance that luscious grilled chicken skewers come to mind. Enter Greek chicken souvlaki: tender chunks of marinated chicken infused with vibrant flavors and a delightful smokiness. This recipe isn’t just about feeding the appetite; it’s a celebration of the Mediterranean spirit, inviting you to gather friends and family around the grill, sharing stories and laughter under the sun. If you’re eager to elevate your next culinary adventure, get ready to dive deep into the bold flavors of Greek chicken souvlaki.

Why Make This Recipe

Each ingredient in the marinade brings a unique element, creating a medley of flavors that dances on your palate.
Grilling the chicken enhances the dish, providing a delightful char that contrasts beautifully with its juicy inside.
It’s quick and easy enough to make any day of the week but impressive enough for company.

Simple Way to Prepare Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Making Greek chicken souvlaki at home is a straightforward process that invites you into the world of Mediterranean cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can craft a dish that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for both leisurely lunches or festive dinners. Here’s how to bring this vibrant dish to life.

Gather the Ingredients: First, ensure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
Make the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until they are well blended. The fragrant aroma that wafts from the mixture is just the beginning of your culinary adventure.
Marinate the Chicken: Next, add the chicken cubes into the bowl, ensuring that each piece is coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour. If you have the luxury of time, marinating overnight will deepen the flavors.
Prepare the Grill: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The hot grates will give your chicken that coveted grill mark and a slight char that enhances the flavors.
Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. The secret is to keep an eye on them, ensuring they don’t get overcooked.
Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows for the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent.

Best Way to Store Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Preserving the delightful essence of your chicken souvlaki is simple with these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Place any leftover grilled chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3–4 days when stored properly at or below 40°F.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken skewers for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag.
Thawing: To thaw, transfer the chicken from the freezer to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Alternatively, you can use the microwave for a quicker defrost.

Serving Suggestions for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

The beauty of Greek chicken souvlaki lies in its versatility. Here are some fantastic ways you can serve it:

Pita Bread Wraps: Serve the skewers in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, fresh cucumber, and tomatoes for a delightful wrap.
Salads: Chop the grilled chicken and toss it over a bed of greens, olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing salad.
Platter Style: Arrange the skewers on a large platter alongside grilled vegetables, pita chips, and a bowl of assorted dips like hummus or baba ganoush for a mezze feast.
Rice or Grain Bowls: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous, topped with roasted vegetables and a squeeze of lemon.
Side Dishes: Complement your souvlaki with traditional Greek sides like lemon potatoes, wilted greens, or a vibrant tabbouleh salad.

Tips to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for fresh chicken breasts rather than frozen for optimal flavor and texture.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close watch on the chicken while grilling to prevent dryness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Add Fresh Herbs: For even more flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the marinade.
Experiment with Spice: Feel free to tweak the black pepper; for a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are a couple of suggestions:

Alternative Proteins: Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs for a juicier option. If you prefer a vegetarian route, use firm tofu or vegetable skewers with similar marinade.
Flavor Enhancers: Try adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade for an interesting twist that brings depth to the flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to a day in advance, so it’s ready to grill when you are.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are a great option for souvlaki. They tend to be more tender and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for grilling.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To add some heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade or serve with a spicy sauce on the side.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Certainly! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the marinated chicken skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Nutritional Info

If you’re mindful of your nutritional intake, Greek chicken souvlaki packs quite a punch:

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving (based on a 4-serving recipe)
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Allowing Enough Marinating Time: The marinade works its magic with time. If you’re in a hurry, aim for at least an hour, but overnight yields better results.
Skipping the Soak for Wooden Skewers: Not soaking wooden skewers can lead to burning, so always soak them for at least 30 minutes beforehand.
Overcrowding the Grill: Avoid placing too many skewers on the grill at once; give each one space to cook evenly and achieve that lovely char.
Ignoring Rest Time: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This is crucial to keep the meat juicy and tender.

Conclusion

Incorporating Greek chicken souvlaki into your culinary repertoire doesn’t just elevate dinner; it transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. With its delicious marinade and quick cooking time, Greek chicken souvlaki becomes your ultimate flavor-packed solution for any occasion—from casual gatherings to special celebrations. So fire up the grill, grab those skewers, and let the bold flavors take center stage at your table. Every bite is a nod to tradition and a testament to the joy of shared meals. Enjoy your flavorful journey into Greek cuisine!