This Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is juicy and full of flavor! It features tender chicken marinated in olive oil, lemon, and spices, grilled to perfection.
Making this dish is a breeze! I love serving it with fresh pita and veggies. Trust me, your friends will think you spent hours in the kitchen—wink wink! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but you can also use breasts if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re looking for a different protein option, try this recipe with tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings a rich flavor to the marinade. If it’s not available, you can substitute it with a light olive oil or avocado oil for a similar effect.
Oregano: Greek oregano gives the best authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, regular dried oregano will work, but I suggest adding a pinch of dried thyme for extra herbiness.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for that zesty brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will do, just use a little less as it tends to be stronger.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Souvlaki Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken souvlaki lies in marinating and grilling techniques. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but longer (up to 3 hours) is better for flavor.
- When grilling, don’t flip the chicken too often. Let it sear and develop a nice crust—this locks in moisture.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Remove it from the grill at 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices for a tastier bite!
Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and marinating, plus approximately 10-15 minutes to grill. It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but more time (up to 3 hours) enhances the flavor even more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to create a flavorful marinade that will bring out the taste of the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour; for even better flavor, marinate for 2-3 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, a cast-iron skillet or stovetop grill works perfectly too!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to promote even cooking.
5. Grill the Souvlaki:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill the souvlaki for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until all sides are nicely charred and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to settle and keeps the chicken tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken souvlaki hot with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and fresh parsley for an authentic Greek feast. Enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, authentic Greek chicken souvlaki!
FAQ for Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that breasts can dry out more easily, so be careful not to overcook them. They should still be grilled for about 4-5 minutes per side.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors even more. Just make sure to cover it well in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours for the best taste and texture.
What Should I Serve with Souvlaki?
Greek chicken souvlaki pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh salads. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or within a wrap for a delicious meal!
How Do I Store Leftover Souvlaki?
Store any leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
