Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful and flavorful Greek dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your backyard. This grilled chicken on a stick is marinated in a mix of garlic, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil, making it juicy and tender. Perfect for barbecues, family meals, or casual get-togethers, this Chicken Souvlaki recipe stands out for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Chicken Souvlaki comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, lemon, and yogurt creates a deliciously tangy flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Grill or Oven Friendly: You can easily cook this dish on an outdoor grill or in your oven, giving you flexibility no matter the season.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with ranch dressing or toss it into salads, wraps, or pita bread for a fresh meal any time.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this Chicken Souvlaki is a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make preparing Chicken Souvlaki smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: These are perfect for threading chicken pieces while ensuring even cooking.
• Grill: A good grill gives your Chicken Souvlaki that delicious charred flavor that you can’t achieve indoors.
• Mixing bowl: Use it to combine marinade ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor infusion.

Ingredients

Chicken Souvlaki – juicy and moist grilled Greek chicken souvlaki recipe made with garlic, yogurt, lemon and olive oil. The best chicken on a stick ever!

For the Chicken

• 12 oz (350g) skinless and boneless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• ranch dressing (for dipping)

For the Marinade

• 1 1/2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour to prevent them from burning during grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 16 equal-sized cubes.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread 4 pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer.
2. Repeat until you have four skewers ready.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill (outdoor or indoor).
2. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill.
3. Grill until cooked through while brushing with olive oil for added moisture.
4. Serve hot with ranch dressing on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Souvlaki as a stand-alone dish or as part of a vibrant Mediterranean meal!

How to Serve Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Pita Bread

• Warm pita bread pairs perfectly with chicken souvlaki. It can be used to wrap the chicken, adding a delightful chewy texture.

Tzatziki Sauce

• This cool and creamy sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic complements the grilled flavors of chicken souvlaki beautifully.

Greek Salad

• A fresh Greek salad adds crunch and health benefits. Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a refreshing side.

Rice Pilaf

• Serve your chicken souvlaki over fluffy rice pilaf for a hearty meal. The rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken.

Grilled Vegetables

• Include grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for an added layer of flavor and nutrition. They make a colorful addition to your plate.

Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges enhance the flavors of chicken souvlaki. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness to every bite.

How to Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

Perfecting your chicken souvlaki requires attention to detail in marination and grilling techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Marinate longer: For more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least one hour or even overnight.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality olive oil make a significant difference in taste.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure that your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Don’t overcrowd skewers: Leave space between pieces of chicken on each skewer for even cooking.
• Check internal temperature: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Baste while grilling: Brush the chicken with olive oil while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Souvlaki

Pairing side dishes with your chicken souvlaki can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors wonderfully.

1. Greek Orzo Salad
   A light salad made with orzo pasta, olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes adds a touch of Mediterranean flair.

2. Hummus
   This creamy dip made from chickpeas is not only healthy but also pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

3. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside your juicy chicken.

4. Cucumber Salad
   Refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar offers a nice contrast to the grilled flavors.

5. Feta Cheese Dip
   Creamy feta dip served with fresh veggies or pita chips can serve as a delightful appetizer alongside your meal.

6. Quinoa Tabouli
   A nutritious twist on tabouli made with quinoa instead of bulgur wheat brings freshness and texture to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Souvlaki, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow your chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for better taste.

• Using Cold Skewers: If you use bamboo skewers without soaking, they can catch fire on the grill. Soak them in cold water for at least one hour before grilling to prevent this.

• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill can lower the temperature and cook unevenly. Leave space between each skewer for proper heat circulation.

• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its temperature can result in undercooked or dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Failing to Rest: Cutting into grilled chicken right away can let juices escape, making it dry. Let your Chicken Souvlaki rest for a few minutes after grilling for juicier results.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Souvlaki

• Freeze Chicken Souvlaki in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date.

Reheating Chicken Souvlaki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat skewers for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (about 1 minute), checking until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the skewers and cook until warm, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made of marinated chicken grilled on skewers. The marinade typically includes garlic, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil, giving it a rich flavor.

Can I use other meats for Souvlaki?

Yes! While chicken is popular, you can also use pork, beef, or lamb. Just adjust cooking times based on the type of meat used.

How do I serve Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken Souvlaki can be served with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and dips like tzatziki or ranch dressing. It makes a great meal or appetizer!

Can I make Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different marinades or side dishes according to your tastes. Try this recipe today and enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken skewers that will impress everyone!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chicken Souvlaki

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Chicken Souvlaki is a mouthwatering Greek delight that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a zesty mixture of garlic, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Perfect for grilling during summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this easy-to-make dish can be served in various ways—wrapped in pita bread, tossed in salads, or enjoyed with a side of tzatziki sauce. With its appealing taste and healthy profile, Chicken Souvlaki is sure to become a favorite in your household.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz skinless and boneless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• 1 ½ tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for one hour.
2. Cut chicken breasts into 16 equal cubes and pat dry.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine marinade ingredients and add chicken cubes; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat grill and thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
5. Grill skewers until cooked through, brushing with olive oil as needed.
6. Serve hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (85g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 80mg