Chicken souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki with Mediterranean Flavor: A Culinary Journey

If you've ever dreamed of enjoying the aroma of a summer meal on the Mediterranean shores, get ready to savor the taste of sunshine and freshness with this delicious chicken souvlaki recipe. Its savory flavor and perfect texture make it not only an excellent choice for a light lunch but also for a charming dinner with loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:
- 600 g chicken breast
- 1 bell pepper (optional, for extra color and flavor)
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
- Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon (or more, to taste)

For the tzatziki sauce:
- 250 g Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber
- 2-3 garlic cloves (to taste)
- Salt - to taste
- Olive oil - 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Fresh or dried dill - 1 teaspoon (optional)

Recipe History:
Souvlaki is a classic Mediterranean recipe that dates back to ancient times. These meat skewers are often associated with typical Greek meals, but their influence has spread worldwide, becoming a symbol of conviviality and the joy of eating. They are easy to prepare and can be adapted based on available ingredients, making them ideal for any occasion.

Step by step for perfect souvlaki:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cutting the chicken breast into cubes about 3-4 cm in size. It's important for the pieces to be uniform to ensure even cooking on the grill.

2. Flavoring the chicken:
In a bowl, add the chicken cubes and sprinkle a mixture of salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well so that all pieces are evenly coated with spices. If desired, you can marinate the meat for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

3. Preparing the bell pepper:
If you choose to use bell pepper, cut it into cubes similar in size to the chicken. This will ensure even cooking and an attractive presentation.

4. Assembling the skewers:
On the skewers, alternate chicken cubes with bell pepper cubes. Make sure to leave a little space between pieces to allow air circulation on the grill.

5. Grilling:
Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill, allowing them to cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until well cooked and golden brown. It's important not to overcook them to avoid drying out the meat.

6. Preparing the tzatziki sauce:
While the skewers are cooking, you can prepare the tzatziki sauce. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out the excess water. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, minced garlic, salt, and if desired, olive oil and dill. Mix well and let the sauce rest in the refrigerator to meld the flavors.

7. Serving:
Once the skewers are ready, serve them hot alongside the tzatziki sauce. You can also add a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a complete and flavorful meal.

Useful tips:
- Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- You can experiment with other spices by adding freshly squeezed lemon or olive oil to the marinade for extra flavor.
- Chicken skewers can also be enjoyed cold, making them an excellent choice for picnics or summer meals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! You can use pork, beef, or lamb, depending on your preferences. Cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat used.

2. How can I store leftover skewers?
Leftover skewers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on the grill to bring them back to life.

Variations:
- You can add vegetables like onion or zucchini to your skewers for a burst of textures and flavors.
- Instead of tzatziki, you can try a spicy tomato sauce or a yogurt sauce with dill for a different twist.

This chicken souvlaki recipe is not only delicious but also colorful and flavorful, perfect for bringing a touch of sunshine to your days. Try it and turn your meals into a true Mediterranean feast! Enjoy your meal!