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Classic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your kitchen. This dish features marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, often served with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a delicious tzatziki sauce. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own mouthwatering Chicken Souvlaki.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Pita bread, for serving
- Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion), for serving
- Tzatziki sauce, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Souvlaki
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce for dipping.
FAQs
What is Chicken Souvlaki?
Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made of marinated chicken skewers that are grilled and typically served with pita bread, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce.
Can I use other meats for Souvlaki?
Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can also use pork, beef, or lamb for Souvlaki. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat used.
What is Tzatziki sauce?
Tzatziki is a Greek yogurt-based sauce made with cucumbers, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. It’s a refreshing accompaniment to Souvlaki and other grilled meats.
How can I make Souvlaki in the oven?
If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor.
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