The charm of Greek cuisine is its delicious simplicity, blending herbs and fresh ingredients to evoke the spirit of the Mediterranean. Greek Chicken Skewers, known as "Souvlaki," are a testament to this culinary tradition. These skewers, laden with tender chicken marinated in aromatic herbs and zesty lemon, are perfect for grilling and bring a taste of Greece to your plate.
Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, they're ideal for backyard gatherings, picnics, or a family dinner. Let's embark on a Grecian culinary journey with this straightforward recipe!
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Why This Recipe Works
Flavor Depth and Balance: One of the standout features of this recipe is the harmonious blend of ingredients. The combination of lemon, garlic, and Greek spices doesn't just marinate the chicken; it transforms it. The tangy freshness of lemon, the warmth of spices, and the robustness of garlic infuse the chicken with flavors that are both bold and balanced. And unlike recipes that require prolonged marination, this one ensures that a short marinating period is enough to get that deep, rich taste.
Versatility and Convenience: What's wonderful about Greek chicken skewers is their adaptability. You can pair them with a side of tzatziki, put them atop a fresh salad, or even tuck them inside a pita with some veggies for a wholesome wrap. Plus, skewers inherently make for a convenient serving method, whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a dinner party, or just a simple family meal. The skewered portions allow for easy cooking, serving, and most importantly, eating – no need for a knife or fork, just grab a skewer and enjoy!
Ingredients
Chicken breast - A lean and tender choice perfect for skewering. If unavailable, chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier alternative.
Olive oil- Adds a rich, authentic Mediterranean flavor. Substitute with canola oil or avocado oil if needed.
Lemon- Provides a zesty tang to the marinade. Lime could also work, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic- Infuses the chicken with deep aromatic notes. If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be a substitute.
Oregano- A quintessential Greek herb. In its absence, you could use rosemary or marjoram, though the taste will vary.
Tips
- Always marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or, ideally, overnight to let the flavors meld.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to prevent burning.
- For even cooking, ensure chicken pieces are of uniform size.
- Grilling over medium heat ensures the chicken cooks through without burning on the outside.
- Turning the skewers occasionally ensures even grilling and caramelization.
How to Serve
These Greek Chicken Skewers are a versatile dish and can be incorporated into many meal types. Whether you're thinking of a casual barbecue or a more formal dinner, their flavor profile fits wonderfully.
- Gyro-Style: Place a chicken skewer in a pita bread, add fresh tomatoes, onions, and drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
- Mediterranean Salad: Serve chicken skewers atop a salad of fresh greens, olives, feta cheese, and cucumber with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
- With Sides: Accompany the skewers with roasted vegetables and a side of rice pilaf or orzo pasta.
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Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Place skewers on the grill, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden brown exterior. This should take about 12-15 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
- Always marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or, ideally, overnight to let the flavors meld.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to prevent burning.
- For even cooking, ensure chicken pieces are of uniform size.
- Grilling over medium heat ensures the chicken cooks through without burning on the outside.
- Turning the skewers occasionally ensures even grilling and caramelization.