Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki: A Mediterranean Delight

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Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with this flavorful Chicken Souvlaki recipe! This classic Mediterranean dish features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, fresh lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or cooking indoors on a cozy evening, this versatile dish is perfect for any occasion. Paired with warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki, and a crisp Greek salad, this souvlaki will bring a burst of Mediterranean magic to your table. Below, you’ll find everything you need to create this crowd-pleasing dish, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, along with tips to make it your own.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too), cut into bite-sized 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (use a high-quality oil for the best flavor)
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced (or grated for a smoother texture)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano (Greek oregano is ideal for authenticity)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, but adds a warm, earthy depth)
• 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness)
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Optional for Serving:

• Warm pita bread or flatbreads
• Creamy tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, and olives
• Lemon wedges for an extra citrusy zing
• Grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Skewers (wooden or metal, if grilling)
• Grill (outdoor or indoor grill pan) or large skillet (cast-iron preferred)
• Tongs for flipping the chicken
• Cutting board and sharp knife

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade
The secret to irresistible Chicken Souvlaki lies in its bold, zesty marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin (if using), smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and red wine vinegar (if desired). Whisk vigorously until the ingredients meld into a fragrant, cohesive marinade. The lemon juice and olive oil provide a bright, silky base, while the garlic and herbs infuse the chicken with classic Greek flavors. For an extra punch, let the garlic sit in the lemon juice for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients—it helps mellow its sharpness while enhancing the flavor.

2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken thighs (or breasts) to the marinade, tossing gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated. The chicken should be glistening with the marinade, soaking up all its vibrant flavors. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag for easier storage. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor infusion. If you have time, marinating overnight will yield even more tender, flavorful results. Be sure to give the chicken a quick toss halfway through marinating to ensure even coverage.

3. Preheat Your Cooking Surface
If you’re grilling, preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks. For stovetop cooking, heat a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan, creating a sizzling surface for the chicken to develop a golden crust.

4. Skewer the Chicken (Optional)
If grilling, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to promote even cooking. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Metal skewers are a great reusable option and don’t require soaking. If you’re cooking on the stovetop, you can skip the skewers and cook the chicken pieces directly in the pan.

5. Cook the Chicken

• Grilling Method: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and has a slight char for that authentic souvlaki flavor. The exterior should be golden with caramelized grill marks, while the interior remains juicy and tender.
• Stovetop Method: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. The chicken should have a slightly crispy exterior and a moist, flavorful interior.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. If using skewers, you can serve the chicken on them for a rustic presentation or slide the pieces off for easier eating. Sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki, and a vibrant Greek salad featuring juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta, and briny olives. For an extra touch, offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the chicken, enhancing its bright, citrusy notes.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

• Choose Your Cut: Chicken thighs are recommended for their rich flavor and juiciness, but chicken breasts are a leaner option. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for 1-2 hours or even overnight will deepen the flavor and tenderize the chicken.
• Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, ensuring every bite is succulent.
• Customize the Marinade: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make it a Meal: Turn your souvlaki into a complete feast by serving it with roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a side of hummus for dipping.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated (uncooked) chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat cooked chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Souvlaki is not only bursting with Mediterranean flavors but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests at a summer gathering. The marinade is simple yet bold, and the dish can be adapted to suit your preferences—grill it, pan-sear it, or even bake it in the oven (375°F/190°C for 20-25 minutes, if you prefer). Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and sure to impress.

Cultural Context

Souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food, often enjoyed at bustling tavernas or during festive gatherings. The word “souvlaki” comes from the Greek word “souvla,” meaning skewer, reflecting the traditional method of grilling bite-sized meat. This dish embodies the essence of Greek cuisine: fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a celebration of simple, wholesome food. By making it at home, you’re bringing a piece of Greece to your kitchen!

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