Introduction

Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful Mediterranean dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece to your dining table. Marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, this dish is skewered and grilled to perfection, offering a taste that is both savory and refreshing. Often served with a side of Tzatziki sauce, Chicken Souvlaki makes for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger spread.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 1.5 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
Extra virgin olive oil – 1/4 cup
Lemon juice – 1/4 cup
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Oregano – 2 teaspoons, dried
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
Wooden skewers – soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Tzatziki Sauce
Greek yogurt – 1 cup
Cucumber – 1, grated and drained
Garlic – 1 clove, minced
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
Fresh dill – 1 tablespoon, chopped
Salt – to taste

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 15 minutes
Total Time – 35 minutes
Yield – Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients for the marinade: olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Ensure all chicken pieces are well coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a sealable plastic bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This helps avoid a watery sauce.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cooking the Souvlaki

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Ensure it is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
3. Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.

Serving the Chicken Souvlaki

1. Once cooked, remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
2. Serve the chicken souvlaki with the tzatziki sauce on the side, alongside warm pita bread and your choice of sides, such as a Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Marinating Tips

– Marinating the chicken for longer enhances the flavor significantly; aim for at least 2 hours if possible.
– Never skip the lemon juice in the marinade, as it adds essential acidity that tenderizes the meat.

About Tzatziki

– This sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just ensure it is stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
– Fresh herbs like dill can be swapped out for mint if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Cooking Alternatives

– Alternatively, the chicken can be cooked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
– If using a stovetop skillet, cook on medium heat, making sure to achieve a nice sear on the chicken.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicy and more enjoyable.

Skewering

Using skewers to secure the marinated chicken allows for even cooking and makes it easier to handle on the grill or in the oven. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water to prevent burning.

Grilling

Grilling the chicken over high heat helps to achieve a beautiful char while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. It’s important to let the chicken rest before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Preparing Tzatziki

Preparing tzatziki involves combining yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It’s essential to drain the cucumber to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce, resulting in a thick and creamy dip.

Serving

Serve the chicken souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a generous drizzle of tzatziki sauce for a balanced and refreshing meal.

FAQ

Can I use other meats for souvlaki?

Yes, souvlaki can be made with beef, lamb, or pork. Just ensure to adjust the marinating time according to the type of meat used.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for best results, marinate it overnight.

Can I make tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes, tzatziki can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for the best flavor.

What can I serve with chicken souvlaki?

Chicken souvlaki pairs well with sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.

Can I bake chicken souvlaki instead of grilling?

Absolutely! You can bake chicken souvlaki in the oven at a high temperature until cooked through for an alternative cooking method.

Conclusion

The chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your table. The marinated chicken skewers are juicy and savory, perfectly complemented by the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. This recipe not only showcases the vibrant Mediterranean cuisine but also allows for customization with various seasonings and side dishes. Enjoy this meal as a centerpiece for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Greek Salad

A refreshing side that complements the chicken souvlaki beautifully, featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.

Pita Bread

Soft, warm pita serves as the perfect vessel for wrapping the souvlaki and adding even more flavor with each bite.

Roasted Vegetables

Season an assortment of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for additional color and taste on your plate.

Lemon Rice

Fluffy rice flavored with lemon zest and herbs makes a bright and zesty addition to your meal.

Fattoush Salad

A vibrant salad tossed with crispy pita, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing can provide a crunchy contrast to the tender souvlaki.

Hummus

Creamy hummus can be served as a dip alongside the skewers for an added layer of flavor and texture.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

These delicious, grape leaf-wrapped bundles filled with rice and herbs add an authentic Mediterranean touch to your meal spread.