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Chicken souvlaki transports you straight to the bustling streets of Athens with each juicy bite. This recipe brings authentic Greek flavors to your home by marinating tender chicken with vibrant herbs and grilling until smoky and golden. Warm pita and cool tzatziki are perfect finishing touches for a satisfying Mediterranean meal.
The first time I made these for a backyard dinner party everyone went back for seconds and we laughed about how the marinade could make anything taste good
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose breasts that are plump and have a fresh clean smell for juicy bites
- Olive oil: Gives richness and helps create a tender grilled texture Select cold pressed extra virgin for best flavor
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright tang and tenderizes the chicken Use freshly squeezed for the most authentic taste
- Garlic minced: Offers that signature bold Greek kick Choose cloves that feel firm and do not sprout
- Dried oregano: Brings real Mediterranean aroma Always go for Greek or Mediterranean oregano if possible
- Dried thyme: Lends subtle earthy notes and boosts the herbal mix
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and making all the flavors sing Use flaky sea salt if available
- Red onion cut into chunks: Adds color and sweetness Look for onions with shiny outer skins and no soft spots
- Red bell pepper cut into chunks: Gives sweetness and vibrant color Choose firm shiny peppers with no wrinkles
- Green bell pepper cut into chunks: Brings a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness Check for a weighty feel and bright green color
- Wooden skewers: Soak these for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together olive oil lemon juice minced garlic dried oregano dried thyme salt and pepper until well combined Add the chicken chunks and toss until every piece is well coated with the marinade Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour For extra flavor let it sit overnight
- Arrange the Skewers:
- Take your soaked skewers and gently thread the marinated chicken alternating with pieces of red onion red bell pepper and green bell pepper Make sure to leave a little space between pieces for even cooking
- Prepare the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking A grill pan on the stovetop can be used if you do not have an outdoor grill
- Grill the Souvlaki:
- Place the skewers on the hot grill Cook for eight to ten minutes turning every couple of minutes until the chicken is golden with grill marks and the vegetables have softened slightly The chicken should be cooked through and juicy when sliced open
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the finished skewers to a serving platter Serve piping hot with pita bread and a generous side of creamy cool tzatziki sauce for dipping
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Every time I bring this dish to summer picnics my family ends up fighting over the last skewer It reminds me of evenings on my grandmother’s sunlit patio where she always made an extra batch just for leftovers
Storage tips
Leftover chicken souvlaki keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Warm up gently on a skillet or enjoy it cold sliced over salads or tucked into sandwiches For longer storage freeze cooked skewers for up to two months
Ingredient substitutions
Chicken thighs can be swapped for breasts if you want juicier and richer flavor If you are out of one kind of bell pepper just use more of another For a vegetarian option tofu or halloumi cheese can be marinated and grilled in the same way
Serving suggestions
Pile the grilled chicken souvlaki onto a platter with warm pita rounds cherry tomatoes crisp cucumbers and a big bowl of tzatziki For extra flavor add a squeeze of fresh lemon and scatter some crumbled feta over everything Souvlaki is delicious served alongside rice pilaf or a bright Greek salad
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Cultural context
Souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food cherished for its simplicity and bold flavors In Greece you will find it sizzling over charcoal grills at every festival and market It represents hospitality and the joy of gathering friends together to share a meal
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust grilling time as needed for thicker cuts.
- → Which vegetables pair best with Greek chicken skewers?
Red onion, red and green bell peppers are classic. Try zucchini or cherry tomatoes for variety.
- → What can I use if I don’t have a grill?
An oven broiler or stovetop grill pan works well; cook skewers until chicken is golden and cooked through.
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
For best flavor, marinate at least one hour—overnight in the refrigerator is ideal for tenderness.
- → What is a good serving suggestion?
Serve with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki, alongside a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
- → How do I keep skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill.