Greek Chicken Souvlaki: A Mediterranean grilled delight

Also Known As

• Souvlaki Kotopoulo (Σουβλάκι Κοτόπουλο): This is the Greek name for chicken souvlaki.
• Kalamaki Kotopoulo (Καλαμάκι Κοτόπουλο): In some places, especially in Greece, souvlaki skewers (including chicken) are referred to as “kalamaki,” which means skewer.
• Chicken Skewers: This is a more general English name often used to describe grilled chicken on skewers, which is essentially what chicken souvlaki is.

Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki

Instructions for Chicken Souvlaki

Main Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki

• Chicken Breast: Cut into cubes, chicken breast forms the core of souvlaki, providing lean and tender meat that absorbs the marinade flavors.
• Dried Oregano: A key herb in Greek cuisine, dried oregano adds aromatic Mediterranean flavors to the chicken marinade.
• Garlic: Crushed garlic cloves infuse the chicken with pungent and savory notes, complementing the herbs and olive oil.
• Olive Oil: Used in the marinade, olive oil not only adds richness but also helps in tenderizing the chicken and forming a flavorful crust during grilling.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice provides acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil and enhances the overall marinade.
• Salt: To taste, salt is essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Souvlaki

• Pita Bread: Serve the grilled chicken skewers wrapped in warm pita bread. Optionally, lightly toast the pita for added texture.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Accompany the souvlaki with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. Tzatziki, made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs, complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
• Greek Salad: Serve alongside a traditional Greek salad consisting of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
• Lemon Wedges: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the souvlaki just before eating, enhancing the citrus notes in the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty and wholesome meal.
• Rice Pilaf: For a more substantial meal, serve the souvlaki with a side of rice pilaf cooked with herbs and a touch of lemon zest.

Tips for Chicken Souvlaki

• Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, to ensure that it is fully infused with flavor.
• Use high-quality, flavorful herbs and spices in the marinade, such as oregano, thyme, and paprika.
• Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so that they cook evenly on the skewers.
• Use metal skewers or soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning.
• Cook the chicken skewers over medium-high heat until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
• Serve the chicken skewers with a variety of toppings and sides such as tzatziki, Greek salad, and pita bread.
• To make sure that your souvlaki is juicy and tender, don’t overcook the chicken, cook it until its internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• If you are using wooden skewers make sure to soak them for at least 30 minutes before using them, this will prevent them from burning.
• If you are using a grill pan, make sure it is hot before adding the skewers, this will help them to get nice grill marks.
• Experiment with different marinades and toppings to create new and unique flavor combinations.

Storage Tips for Souvlaki Chicken

Store leftover Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving to preserve its flavors and texture.

People Also Ask About Chicken Souvlaki

What is chicken souvlaki made of?
Chicken souvlaki typically consists of marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection, often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and garnished with fresh vegetables.

What is souvlaki seasoning made of?
Souvlaki seasoning typically includes dried oregano, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and salt to taste. These ingredients are mixed together to marinate the chicken cubes before grilling, imparting classic Greek flavors to the dish.

What is the difference between chicken souvlaki and gyro?
Chicken souvlaki is grilled marinated chicken skewers served with pita and toppings like tzatziki. Gyro refers to meat (traditionally pork or lamb) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and sliced thin, served in pita with similar toppings.

How is souvlaki made in Greece?
In Greece, souvlaki is typically made by marinating meat (chicken, pork, or lamb) in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The meat is then skewered and grilled, often served with pita, tzatziki, and salad.

Do Greeks put chips in souvlaki?
It’s not traditional to include chips (French fries) inside souvlaki in Greece. Souvlaki is typically served with pita bread, meat, tzatziki, and occasionally garnished with fresh vegetables.

What are some popular toppings and sides for chicken souvlaki?
Some popular options include tzatziki, a Greek yogurt, cucumber dip, and a simple Greek salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese. The souvlaki can also be served in a wrap with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki, this version is also known as Gyro.

How should I store leftover chicken souvlaki?
Leftover chicken souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Greek Recipe Suggestions

• Greek Kolokithokeftedes
• Greek Patates Yahni
• Greek Spanakorizo

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