Easy Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a quick and vibrant Mediterranean meal, this Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the fresh aromas of herbs, zesty citrus, and a perfect balance of spices, this grilled chicken dish brings a delightful taste to your table in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, it’s simple to prepare yet impressively delicious, making it a versatile favorite for all skill levels in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick Preparation: You can have marinated skewers ready to grill in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: The combination of herbs and lemon juice creates a bright, mouthwatering taste that awakens your palate.
• Healthy and Balanced: Lean chicken breast is paired with nutritious herbs and olive oil, making it a wholesome protein choice.
• Perfect for Sharing: Skewers are easy to serve, making this recipe ideal for parties and family meals alike.
• Highly Customizable: You can easily tailor the spices and sides to cater to your personal tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that work together beautifully. Each ingredient enhances the dish’s aroma, texture, and color, delivering a well-rounded Mediterranean experience on your plate.

• Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into uniform cubes for even grilling.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and keeps the chicken tender while grilling.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides a zesty brightness that balances the spices.
• Dried Oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb that imparts an earthy, peppery note.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds a fragrant punch of flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Ground Cumin: Adds a subtle, warm spice that complements the grilled char.
• Red Onion: Optional for skewering alongside chicken for sweetness and color.
• Wooden Skewers: Soaked in water to prevent burning during grilling.

Variations for Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Feel free to customize this recipe to make it your own. Whether by adjusting spices, adding vegetables, or accommodating dietary needs, these variations are simple ways to elevate or diversify the dish.

• Greek Yogurt Marinade: Swap olive oil for yogurt in the marinade for a tangy, tenderizing effect.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or harissa paste to the marinade for some heat.
• Vegetable Skewers: Incorporate bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to add color and nutrition.
• Herb Mix: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for varied herbal flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free, perfect for those avoiding wheat-based products.

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How to Make Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized, evenly sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and perfect grilling. Place the pieces in a bowl ready for marinating.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. The marinade should be vibrant and well-balanced to impart maximum flavor to the chicken.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade over the chicken cubes, mixing to coat every piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

Step 4: Prepare the Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for about 20 minutes to avoid burning. Thread marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, optionally alternating with slices of red onion or vegetables if desired.

Step 5: Grill the Souvlaki

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once grilled, allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Making Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs make all the difference in flavor vibrancy.
• Let It Marinate Long Enough: Allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to work its magic, or overnight if possible.
• Don’t Overcrowd The Grill: Leave space between skewers for even cooking and better char.
• Check Internal Temperature: Aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked but still juicy.
• Use a Grill Pan Indoors: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a cast-iron grill pan works wonderfully.

How to Serve Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Garnishes

Top your souvlaki with fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce to add freshness and creamy richness.

Side Dishes

Pair the chicken skewers with warm pita bread, a crisp Greek salad, or lemony roasted potatoes to complete your Mediterranean feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the souvlaki on a platter with colorful grilled vegetables or stuff the chicken into pita pockets with a dollop of hummus and fresh veggies for an easy handheld meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover grilled chicken souvlaki in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to keep leftovers longer, remove the chicken from skewers and freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave or oven at low temperature to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of olive oil or water helps maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just trim excess fat and adjust grilling time accordingly.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating for up to 4 hours or overnight will deepen the flavors for an even tastier result.

Are wooden skewers necessary?

Wooden skewers are great and inexpensive, but metal skewers can also be used and won’t need soaking before grilling.

Can I cook this in an oven instead of a grill?

Yes, you can broil the skewers on high heat in the oven, turning halfway through until cooked and slightly charred.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be mindful of any sides or sauces you pair it with if you need strict gluten avoidance.

Final Thoughts

This Flavorful Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe is a wonderful way to bring authentic Mediterranean flavors right into your kitchen with ease. Its balanced mix of herbs and spices, quick prep time, and versatility make it a recipe to keep on repeat. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal that your whole family will love.

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