Green Chicken Souvlaki

Green Chicken Souvlaki is a vibrant, flavorful twist on the classic Greek dish. Tender cubes of chicken are marinated in a zesty combination of lemon, garlic, and oregano before being grilled to perfection. Served with a refreshing cucumber and dill yogurt sauce, this dish is perfect for a light, healthy meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a delicious addition to a summer BBQ, Green Chicken Souvlaki will hit the spot!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 4 pita bread
• Optional toppings: tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
4. Make the Yogurt Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, mix the Greek yogurt with fresh dill in a separate bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Souvlaki: Warm the pita bread and place the grilled chicken cubes on top. Add diced cucumber, a dollop of yogurt sauce, and any additional toppings such as tomatoes, red onion, or feta cheese.
6. Serve: Enjoy your fresh, zesty Green Chicken Souvlaki while warm!

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, you can use lamb or pork for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: For extra flavor and crunch, add grilled bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini to the souvlaki.
• Make it spicy: For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade or yogurt sauce.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pita bread or serve the chicken and yogurt sauce in lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken souvlaki and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Fresh pita can be lightly toasted to reheat as well.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to the souvlaki. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
   Marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate, but for best results, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours.
3. Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling?
   Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce instead of making my own yogurt sauce?
   Absolutely! Store-bought tzatziki will work just fine in place of the homemade yogurt sauce.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or hot sauce to either the marinade or yogurt sauce for a spicy twist.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
   You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
7. What toppings can I use for the souvlaki?
   You can add a variety of toppings such as diced tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, olives, or even some fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
8. Can I use a non-stick skillet if I don’t have a grill?
   Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken in a hot non-stick skillet or grill pan on the stovetop. Just cook the chicken cubes until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
10. Is this dish gluten-free?
    Yes, this dish is gluten-free if you use gluten-free pita bread or serve the chicken in lettuce wraps instead.

Conclusion

Green Chicken Souvlaki is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s sure to please everyone. The combination of tender grilled chicken, refreshing cucumber, and creamy yogurt sauce wrapped in warm pita bread makes for a satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Try this recipe the next time you want to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right at home!

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