Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this dish features juicy marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. The combination of fresh herbs, citrus, and colorful vegetables makes it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Marinade
• For the Veggies
• For Garnish
• How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Preheat Grill
• Step 4: Assemble Skewers
• Step 5: Grill Skewers
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Pair with Pita Bread
• Serve with Tzatziki Sauce
• Create a Souvlaki Platter
• Add a Greek Salad
• Use in Wraps
• Enjoy with Rice or Quinoa
• How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is authentic Greek chicken souvlaki?
• How do I make authentic Greek chicken souvlaki tender?
• Can I customize my authentic Greek chicken souvlaki?
• What sides pair well with authentic Greek chicken souvlaki?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The marinade combines olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, infusing the chicken with exceptional taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers with pita bread and tzatziki or over a fresh salad for a lighter option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its authentic Greek flavors.
• Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, it’s a nutritious addition to your meal rotation.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: These are essential for grilling your souvlaki evenly. Soaking them prevents burning during grilling.
• Grill: A good grill provides the high heat needed to achieve that perfect char on both chicken and veggies.
• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing your marinade and tossing the chicken to ensure even coating.
• Tongs: Useful for turning the skewers while grilling without losing moisture from the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ 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 Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the marinade. Toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken will cook quickly while achieving those beautiful grill marks.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers. Alternate pieces of chicken with chunks of red onion and bell peppers for added color and flavor.

Step 5: Grill Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill. Grill for about 8–10 minutes total, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and vegetables are tender with slight charring.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from grill and serve immediately with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki!

How to Serve Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Serving authentic Greek chicken souvlaki can elevate your dining experience with vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

Pair with Pita Bread

• Freshly warmed pita bread is a classic accompaniment that complements the juicy chicken and adds a soft texture.

Serve with Tzatziki Sauce

• A creamy tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs brings a refreshing contrast to the grilled meat.

Create a Souvlaki Platter

• Assemble a platter with grilled chicken skewers, sliced veggies, olives, and feta cheese for an impressive presentation.

Add a Greek Salad

• A simple Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta pairs perfectly, adding crunch and freshness to your meal.

Use in Wraps

• Wrap chicken souvlaki in pita or flatbread with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki for a delicious on-the-go meal.

Enjoy with Rice or Quinoa

• Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty dish that soaks up the flavors of the marinade.

How to Perfect Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Perfecting authentic Greek chicken souvlaki requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Choose the right chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. They absorb marinades well and stay juicy when grilled.
• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors. If time permits, it’s worth the wait!
• Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. This helps achieve those beautiful char marks.
• Don’t overcrowd skewers: Leave space between pieces of chicken and veggies on the skewers. This allows them to cook evenly.
• Rotate frequently: Turn the skewers often while grilling to ensure all sides cook evenly and get that perfect char.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

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Best Side Dishes for Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with your authentic Greek chicken souvlaki enhances the meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent options.

1. Greek Salad
   A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil makes a perfect match.
2. Hummus
   Creamy hummus served with warm pita provides an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements grilled meats wonderfully.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs then roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Fried Zucchini
   Crispy fried zucchini slices seasoned lightly make for a delightful finger food option alongside souvlaki.
5. Lemon Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with lemon juice and zest offers a tangy side that balances out richer flavors of the grilled chicken.
6. Spanakopita
   These flaky spinach pies filled with feta provide another layer of traditional Greek flavor to your meal experience.
7. Potato Wedges
   Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy can serve as a satisfying side that pairs well with dipping sauces like tzatziki.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled adds a summery touch to your table setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, it’s easy to overlook some key elements. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least one hour, but overnight is best for deep flavor.
• Using dry chicken: Overcooking the chicken will result in dryness. Grill just until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes, and use a meat thermometer if necessary.
• Ignoring skewer safety: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat the grill to medium-high heat before adding your skewers.
• Forgetting the veggies: Neglecting to add vegetables makes your souvlaki less colorful and nutritious. Always include bell peppers and onions for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken souvlaki in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Place cooked chicken souvlaki in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer chicken souvlaki to a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the skewers for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making authentic Greek chicken souvlaki, check out these common questions.

What is authentic Greek chicken souvlaki?

Authentic Greek chicken souvlaki consists of marinated grilled chicken skewered with vegetables, typically served with pita and tzatziki sauce.

How do I make authentic Greek chicken souvlaki tender?

To ensure tender chicken, marinate it properly and avoid overcooking when grilling.

Can I customize my authentic Greek chicken souvlaki?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences while keeping the core marinade intact.

What sides pair well with authentic Greek chicken souvlaki?

Serving it with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh salad enhances your meal’s Mediterranean flair.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe brings vibrant flavors right to your table. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!