Bring a taste of Greece to your own backyard with souvlaki: succulent skewers of lemony chicken, grilled to perfection. Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish made with marinated and skewered meat. The key to making good souvlaki lies in the marinade, which infuses the chicken with lemony, garlicky goodness while ensuring tender and juicy bites. Serve the souvlaki with warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki sauce, and a colorful Greek salad for an authentic and delicious meal.

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or craving a taste of the Mediterranean, this authentic souvlaki recipe will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic herbs, and succulent chicken creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Greece. Follow our step-by-step guide and become a Souvlaki master in no time!

Ingredients and Preparation Tips

For this authentic souvlaki recipe, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins, extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, dried oregano, honey, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. To make the chicken extra tender, pound it to an even thickness before cutting into 2-inch chunks.

Prepare the marinade by mixing all the ingredients together in a large bowl, then add the chicken and stir until evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Tip: Pounding the chicken helps to ensure even cooking and tender meat. Marinating the chicken for an extended period of time allows the flavors to fully develop. Grilling over medium-high heat ensures a nicely charred exterior and juicy interior.

How to Make Souvlaki? – Step by Step

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Cut the chicken into 2-inch chunks.
3. In a large bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, honey, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
4. Add the chicken to the marinade and stir until evenly coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
6. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
7. Grill the skewers for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
8. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Now that you’ve mastered the easy souvlaki recipe, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy this classic Greek dish. The combination of juicy chicken, fragrant marinade, and smoky flavors will transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, don’t worry! You can still enjoy the deliciousness of homemade souvlaki using alternative cooking methods. Whether you’re looking to make grilled souvlaki at home or want to try a different approach to the traditional Greek chicken souvlaki recipe, we’ve got you covered.

Broiler Method

If you have a broiler in your oven, you can easily achieve that grilled souvlaki taste. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your broiler to high.
2. Arrange the marinated chicken skewers on a wire rack placed on a baking sheet.
3. Broil the skewers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden color.

The broiler method offers a convenient way to enjoy homemade souvlaki without the need for an outdoor grill. The intense heat of the broiler seals in the flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful caramelized exterior.

Grill Pan Method

If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill or a broiler, a grill pan can be a great alternative. Here’s how to use a grill pan:

1. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat on the stove.
2. Lightly brush the grill pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the skewers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked and has grill marks.

The grill pan method mimics the charred and smoky flavors that you would get from grilling on an outdoor barbecue. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to achieve the grilled souvlaki taste indoors.

Alternative Cooking Methods	Pros	Cons
Broiler Method	Quick and convenient	May not provide the same smoky flavor as grilling
Grill Pan Method	Creates grill marks and charred flavors	Requires a grill pan and stovetop cooking

Whether you choose the broiler method or the grill pan method, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of homemade souvlaki. Experiment with both methods to find your preferred cooking technique. Serve the grilled souvlaki with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a refreshing Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tzatziki Sauce – The Perfect Accompaniment

No authentic souvlaki experience is complete without tzatziki sauce! This creamy and refreshing sauce is made with plain Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and fresh dill or mint. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined. Adjust the seasoning if necessary and chill the tzatziki sauce for up to 2 days before serving. The tangy and cooling flavors of tzatziki sauce complement the grilled chicken souvlaki perfectly, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.

But what makes tzatziki sauce the ideal companion for your greek kebab? Let’s take a closer look at its key ingredients:

Greek Yogurt

Known for its rich and creamy texture, Greek yogurt forms the base of the tzatziki sauce. This thick and strained yogurt adds a velvety consistency to the sauce, making it smooth and luscious.

Cucumber

Grated cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness to the tzatziki sauce. It also adds a natural cooling effect, balancing out the flavors of the marinade.

Garlic

Garlic infuses the tzatziki sauce with a satisfyingly pungent flavor and aroma. It adds depth and complexity to the overall taste, enhancing the grilled chicken souvlaki.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

High-quality extra virgin olive oil not only brings its distinctive fruity notes to the sauce but also adds a luxurious richness. It helps to bind all the ingredients together, ensuring a harmonious and creamy consistency.

Salt and Black Pepper

This classic seasoning duo enhances the flavors of the tzatziki sauce, providing a delicate balance of savory and spicy notes. It adds depth and complexity without overpowering the taste of the grilled chicken souvlaki.

Fresh Dill or Mint

The final touch of freshness comes from the herbs. Whether you choose dill or mint, they both bring a burst of vibrant flavor to the sauce. These herbs elevate the overall taste, making the tzatziki sauce truly irresistible.

Now that we’ve explored the key ingredients of tzatziki sauce, you can see why it’s the perfect accompaniment to your skewered meat. Its creamy texture, refreshing cucumber, pungent garlic, and vibrant herbs create a delicious contrast that complements the marinade perfectly. The tangy and cooling flavors of the tzatziki sauce add a refreshing element to each succulent bite of the grilled chicken souvlaki. What’s more, the versatility of tzatziki sauce allows it to be paired with various other dishes and snacks, making it a must-have condiment in the Mediterranean cuisine.

Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients	Quantity
Plain Greek Yogurt	1 cup
Cucumber	1/2 medium, grated
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Extra Virgin Olive Oil	1 tablespoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Fresh Dill or Mint	1 tablespoon, chopped

Serving Suggestions and Additional Accompaniments

To complete your authentic souvlaki feast, serve the grilled chicken skewers with warm pita bread. You can briefly grill the pita bread until warmed through to add a smoky flavor. Additionally, consider serving a traditional Greek salad alongside the souvlaki. This salad typically includes tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. For a more substantial meal, you can also add crispy fries or a side of roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

As you gather around the grill, the tantalizing aroma of the souvlaki will fill the air, transporting you to the sunny shores of Greece. The combination of tender grilled chicken, the warmth of the pita bread, and the refreshing and crisp Greek salad is a match made in Mediterranean heaven. The vibrant colors and flavors of this traditional Greek dish will bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your backyard gathering.

As you devour your homemade souvlaki, the conversation will flow, laughter will fill the air, and the flavors of the Mediterranean will dance on your taste buds. It’s the perfect meal for lazy summer afternoons, weekend get-togethers, or any occasion that calls for a taste of tradition and the Mediterranean cuisine.

Tips for the Perfect Souvlaki Experience
1. Use high-quality ingredients, such as organic chicken and extra virgin olive oil, to enhance the flavors.
2. Soak wooden skewers in water before threading the chicken to prevent burning on the grill.
3. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
4. Brush the skewers with a little marinade while grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Serve the souvlaki hot off the grill for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion

With this authentic souvlaki recipe, you can bring the flavors of Greece to your own backyard. The combination of tender and juicy chicken, flavorful marinade, and refreshing tzatziki sauce creates a truly mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or enjoying a simple weeknight dinner, souvlaki is a versatile and delicious option. Follow these easy steps and tips to create your own perfect souvlaki experience and transport yourself to the streets of Athens. Get ready for an explosion of Mediterranean flavors that will leave you craving more.

FAQ

What meat can I use for souvlaki?

The most common meat used for souvlaki is chicken, but you can also use pork, lamb, or beef.

How do I make the marinade for souvlaki?

To make the marinade, mix together extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, dried oregano, honey, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.

Can I use a different cooking method if I don’t have a grill?

Yes, you can use a broiler or a grill pan as alternative cooking methods for souvlaki.