Chicken Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish known for its simple yet robust flavors. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then skewered and grilled to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a slightly charred exterior that pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, tangy tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad. Chicken Souvlaki is perfect for a casual weeknight meal or an impressive addition to a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Serving:
- Warm pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to develop. - Prepare the Skewers:
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. - Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). - Serve:
Serve the chicken souvlaki hot with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
This Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, wrapped in pita bread for a delicious sandwich, or paired with a variety of Mediterranean sides for a complete meal.
