Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

The classic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is a simple and delectable dish that is a staple in Greek cuisine. It's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and is sure to impress your guests. The marinade is rich in flavors with a mix of lemon, olive oil, soy sauce, and oregano that beautifully infuses the chicken, while the addition of onions adds a burst of freshness.

Photos of Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are staples in the kitchen, such as chicken breasts, lemon, olive oil, soy sauce, and garlic. However, dried oregano, which adds the distinctive Greek flavor to the dish, may not be readily available in some households. When shopping, make sure to look for this in the herbs and spices aisle.

Ingredients for Classic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Lemon: Brings a fresh and tangy flavor to the chicken.

Olive oil: Used for marinating the chicken and grilling.

Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the dish.

Dried oregano: A key herb that gives the dish its classic Greek flavor.

Garlic: Enhances the taste of the marinade.

Chicken breasts: The main protein in this dish. Can be substituted with thighs or wings.

Onion: Adds a slight sweet and sharp flavor.

One reader, Coleen Little says:

This classic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is a game-changer! The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of Mediterranean flavors, and grilling it to perfection creates a juicy and tender dish. The aroma alone will transport you to a Greek taverna. It's a must-try for anyone craving authentic Greek cuisine.

Coleen Little

Key Techniques for Perfect Souvlaki

How to marinate the chicken: Combine the lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, dried oregano, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Mix well and add the chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is fully coated with the marinade, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.

How to soak the skewers: Submerge the wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour before using them. This prevents the skewers from burning during the grilling process.

How to thread the chicken and onions onto skewers: After marinating the chicken, thread the marinated chicken and onion pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the chicken and onion to create the souvlaki skewers.

How to grill the souvlaki: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grate or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning frequently, for 10 to 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How To Make Chicken Souvlaki

Delicious marinated chicken and onions are skewered and grilled to perfection in our easy Chicken Souvlaki Recipe! Enjoy tender meat and veggies.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Marinate Time: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lemonjuiced
⅓cupolive oil
¼cupsoy sauce
1tspdried oregano
3garlic clovescrushed
4chicken breastscubed into bite sized pieces
1onioncut into bite sized pieces

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in large bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour.
Thread chicken and onions onto skewers.
Cook on an oiled grate or grill pan turning skewers frequently for 10 to 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Recipe Notes

You can also cook this recipe in the oven. Place skewers on a foil-lined pan and turn the broiler on to high. Broil 4 to 5 inches from the heat for 5 to 6 minutes per side or until chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

Nutrition

Calories: 487.57kcal
Fat: 34.28g
Saturated Fat: 7.15g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.37g
Carbohydrates: 5.97g
Fiber: 1.22g
Sugar: 1.78g
Protein: 38.25g
Cholesterol: 111.36mg
Sodium: 987.41mg
Calcium: 43.60mg
Potassium: 530.12mg
Iron: 1.90mg
Vitamin A: 42.12µg
Vitamin C: 10.71mg

Crucial Technique for Juicy Souvlaki

When marinating the chicken, ensure that all pieces are fully submerged in the marinade. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the meat. If the marinade doesn't cover the chicken completely, you can periodically turn the chicken in the marinade during the refrigeration process to ensure all sides get equally marinated.

Time-Saving Tips for This Greek Chicken Recipe

Marinate efficiently: To save time, consider marinating the chicken and onions in a resealable plastic bag. This allows for even distribution of the marinade and eliminates the need for cleaning a large bowl.

Prep in advance: Chop the onions and cut the chicken into skewer-friendly pieces the night before. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to streamline the cooking process.

Use a grill pan: If a grill isn't available, a grill pan on the stovetop can be a convenient alternative for cooking the souvlaki indoors.

Pre-soak skewers: Soak the wooden skewers in water the night before to save time on the day of cooking. This prevents them from burning during grilling and speeds up the preparation process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, use that time to prepare any side dishes or salads to accompany the souvlaki. This helps make the overall meal preparation more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

lemon - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the same acidity and tanginess as lemon juice, while adding a slightly different flavor profile to the marinade.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos offer a similar salty and savory flavor to soy sauce, making it a great alternative for those avoiding soy products.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can provide a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients in the marinade.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a convenient alternative while still imparting the desired garlic flavor.
chicken breasts - Substitute with pork tenderloin: Pork tenderloin can be used as a flavorful alternative to chicken, offering a different texture and taste while still working well with the marinade.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used in place of onions to provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Presentation Tips for Greek Chicken Souvlaki

Elevate the skewers: Present the chicken souvlaki skewers on a bed of quinoa and roasted vegetables for a modern and refined touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the souvlaki skewers with freshly chopped parsley and dill to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a vibrant side salad: Accompany the souvlaki with a vibrant Greek salad featuring ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese.
Drizzle with a zesty sauce: Serve the souvlaki with a side of tzatziki sauce for a creamy, tangy element that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
Incorporate traditional elements: Present the souvlaki on a bed of warm pita bread to pay homage to the classic Greek street food.
Add a touch of elegance: Plate the souvlaki on ceramic serving platters for a sophisticated and polished presentation.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon: Provide a wedge of lemon alongside the souvlaki to allow guests to add a bright, citrusy finish to their dish.

Essential Tools for Making Souvlaki at Home

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the marinade ingredients and ensuring they are well mixed before adding the chicken.
Grill or grill pan: A grill or grill pan is used to cook the chicken souvlaki, giving it that classic charred and smoky flavor.
Wooden skewers: Wooden skewers are used to thread the marinated chicken and onions for grilling, allowing for even cooking and easy serving.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Souvlaki

To store leftover chicken souvlaki, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the cooked souvlaki, place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. To prevent the skewers from sticking together, you can wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container or bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen souvlaki, remove the desired number of skewers from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat the skewers in the microwave, oven, or on the grill until they are heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If you want to freeze uncooked marinated chicken souvlaki, place the marinated chicken and onion pieces on the skewers, then wrap each skewer tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To cook frozen uncooked souvlaki, remove the desired number of skewers from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, cook the skewers according to the recipe instructions, ensuring that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you have leftover lemon marinade, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use it to marinate additional chicken or as a dressing for Greek salads.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Souvlaki

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken souvlaki on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the skewers with a little olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the onions are slightly caramelized. This method is ideal for larger quantities of leftover souvlaki, as it allows you to reheat them all at once while maintaining their moisture and flavor.
For a quick and easy reheating option, use your microwave. Place the leftover chicken souvlaki on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be sure to check the temperature of the chicken in the center of the skewer to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you have a little more time and want to recreate the grilled flavor of freshly cooked souvlaki, use your stovetop. Heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Brush the pan with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the leftover skewers on the hot pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and the onions have regained some of their crispiness. This method is perfect for smaller portions and allows you to enjoy the charred, smoky flavor reminiscent of outdoor grilling.
For a flavorful twist, try reheating your leftover chicken souvlaki in a tomato-based sauce. In a large skillet, sauté some minced garlic and diced tomatoes until softened. Add the leftover skewers to the pan and spoon the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and has absorbed some of the delicious tomato flavor. This method is perfect for transforming your leftover souvlaki into a new and exciting dish, which can be served over rice or pasta.

Interesting Fact About Souvlaki

The classic Greek chicken souvlaki is a popular street food in Greece, often served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various marinades and accompaniments, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Budget-Friendly Greek Chicken Souvlaki

The cost-effectiveness of this Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as olive oil, lemon, and chicken breasts, are commonly found in households and are reasonably priced. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and is a satisfying meal for a family. Rating: 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an affordable and delicious option for a family dinner.

Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki Healthy?

The classic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its lean protein source (chicken breast) and the use of olive oil, which is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The lemon juice and garlic provide additional antioxidants and flavor without adding excessive calories. However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The soy sauce contains a significant amount of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the soy sauce with a low-sodium alternative, such as coconut aminos or a reduced-sodium soy sauce, to decrease the overall sodium content.
Increase the amount of onion and add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
Serve the souvlaki with a side salad or grilled vegetables to further increase the vegetable intake and create a more balanced meal.
Opt for whole grain pita bread instead of refined white pita to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy.
Use Greek yogurt as a base for a tzatziki sauce, which can add protein, calcium, and probiotics to the dish while providing a refreshing and flavorful condiment.

Editor's Take on Classic Greek Chicken Souvlaki

This classic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The marinade of lemon, olive oil, soy sauce, oregano, and garlic infuses the chicken with a zesty and aromatic essence. The grilling process imparts a smoky char and succulence to the chicken, while the onions add a sweet and caramelized touch. This dish is a perfect representation of Greek cuisine, offering a harmonious balance of tangy, savory, and herbaceous notes. It's a simple yet impressive recipe that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors.

Enhance Your Chicken Souvlaki Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Greek Salad: A refreshing and colorful mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, roasted to perfection with a sprinkle of herbs and olive oil.

Tzatziki Dip: A creamy and garlicky yogurt dip with grated cucumber, dill, and a hint of lemon juice, perfect for dipping the souvlaki skewers.

Explore These Tantalizing Alternatives to Souvlaki

Mediterranean Grilled Lamb Chops: Marinate the lamb chops with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary. Grill until they reach your desired level of doneness.

Roasted Vegetable Ratatouille: Combine eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Roast in the oven until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: Toss together a variety of fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and pineapple. Drizzle with a dressing made from honey, lime juice, and mint leaves.

Appetizers and Desserts to Round Out Your Greek Feast

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Each bite is a burst of creamy, earthy goodness that will leave you craving for more.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the classic Italian flavors of bruschetta, featuring crisp, toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. This appetizer is a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will awaken your palate.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a decadent Italian dessert made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese. Topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, this dessert is the perfect combination of rich and light flavors.

Panna Cotta: Treat yourself to a silky-smooth Italian dessert that is both elegant and simple. This creamy custard is infused with vanilla and topped with a sweet berry compote for a refreshing and satisfying end to any meal.

Why trust this Chicken Souvlaki Recipe:

This classic Greek chicken souvlaki recipe is a must-try for all chicken lovers. The marinade, featuring lemon juice, olive oil, and soy sauce, infuses the meat with a burst of Mediterranean flavors. The use of dried oregano and fresh garlic enhances the authenticity of this dish. With the careful marination process and grilling method, this recipe ensures tender, juicy chicken breasts with a perfect char. Trust this recipe for an authentic taste of Greece right in your own kitchen.

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FAQ:

What type of chicken is best for this souvlaki recipe?

I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this souvlaki recipe. They are easy to work with and cook quickly on the grill.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use pork, lamb, or even shrimp for this souvlaki recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to fully infuse into the meat. However, if you have more time, marinating it overnight will yield even better results.

Can I cook the souvlaki indoors if I don't have a grill?

Yes, you can definitely cook the souvlaki indoors. Simply use a grill pan or a regular pan with a little oil over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning them frequently until the chicken is fully cooked.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with the souvlaki?

Some classic Greek side dishes that pair well with souvlaki include Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, pita bread, roasted vegetables, or even some lemony rice. These sides complement the flavors of the souvlaki beautifully.