Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki Recipe: A Homemade Greek Delight

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Souvlaki is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that transports you to the sunny streets of Greece. These delicious skewers, filled with flavor and zest, will captivate you from the very first bite. In this recipe, I will show you how to make perfect chicken souvlaki that is juicy and full of taste. Whether you serve it at a dinner with friends or at a family meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Necessary Ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast, cleaned and cut into cubes
- For the marinade:
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (fresh for a more intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (lemon juice adds a note of freshness)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (choose a quality oil for superior taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (a key ingredient in Greek cuisine)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by Step: Preparing Chicken Souvlaki

1. Marinating the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the marinade.
- Add the chicken breast cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you have time, marinating for 4-6 hours will intensify the flavors.

2. Preparing the Skewers:
- After the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- If you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.

3. Assembling the Skewers:
- Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between them for even cooking. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added color and flavor.

4. Cooking the Skewers:
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a non-stick pan on the stove.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside. Be careful not to overcook them, as the meat can dry out. A good technique is to use a meat thermometer: the internal temperature should be 74°C.

5. Serving:
- Serve the chicken souvlaki warm, alongside fragrant Greek rice and tzatziki sauce, which adds a note of freshness and creaminess. A side of fresh vegetables or a Greek salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Suggestions and Variations:
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as lamb or pork, and add spices like cumin or paprika to customize the marinade.
- If you want a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu cubes or mushrooms and keep the marinade for a delicious flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 10 g (from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I prepare chicken souvlaki in advance?
- Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be.

2. What can I serve alongside souvlaki?
- Besides Greek rice and tzatziki sauce, you can add warm pita or a Greek salad to complete the meal.

3. How can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat the souvlaki in the microwave or on the grill to restore its juiciness.

So, I encourage you to try this chicken souvlaki recipe and bring Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen. With every bite, you will feel closer to the sun of Greece, and your meals will become a true celebration of flavors. Enjoy your meal!