Name: Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil (Extra virgin preferred for better flavor); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (Freshly squeezed recommended); 3 cloves garlic, minced (Adjust amount based on preference); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Feel free to add additional herbs); Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes (Can substitute with other proteins); Skewers (wooden or metal) (Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before use)

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Introduction

Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish featuring tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The image shows three metal skewers loaded with thick, grilled chicken souvlaki cubes stacked closely together. Each chicken piece is well-cooked with visible char marks and a coating of green herbs, giving a textured look with crispy edges and juicy centers. The chicken pieces are a mix of light golden and brown shades due to grilling. The skewers are resting on crumpled parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Thin slices of red onion are faintly visible underneath the skewers. The overall look is rustic and inviting, emphasizing the flavorful grilled chicken. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred for better flavor)
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
3 cloves garlic, minced (adjust amount based on preference)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (feel free to add additional herbs)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes (can substitute with other proteins)
Skewers (wooden or metal) (soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before use)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and stir well to coat all the pieces evenly.
Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 4: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
Step 6: Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Step 7: Remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for juicier results.
Serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Marinate overnight in the fridge for even deeper flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked chicken souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on a grill pan to avoid drying out the meat. For longer storage, freeze cooked skewers wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

How to Serve

The image shows several grilled chicken souvlaki pieces stacked closely together on a brown paper-lined surface. Each chicken piece is light golden with charred grill marks and specks of green herbs throughout. The chicken looks juicy with a slightly rough texture from the grill. Thin slices of purple-red onions are visible at the bottom left, adding a slight contrast. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal?

Yes, wooden skewers work well but be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.