Greek Lemon-Oregano Chicken Souvlaki Skewers
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Greek Lemon-Oregano Chicken Souvlaki Skewers

35 min 4 servings Medium
Chicken souvlaki is a Greek classic that combines juicy, marinated chicken with the fresh flavours of lemon and oregano. The origin of souvlaki dates back to ancient Greece, where skewering meat was a common cooking method. This dish has stood the test of time, becoming a beloved street food that captures the essence of Greek cuisine. In this recipe, we'll walk you through creating tender chicken skewers that are perfect for grilling. Paired with creamy tzatziki sauce and a simple village salad, these skewers offer a delightful balance of zest, creaminess, and freshness. It's a feast for the senses that will transport you straight to a sunny Greek island.

Instructions

1

Prepare the marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Pro tip: For a deeper flavour, use freshly squeezed lemon juice.

2

Marinate the chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Pro tip: Marinating overnight enhances the flavour.

3

Prepare the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 200°C (400°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Soaking skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.

4

Skewer the chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.

5

Grill the skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to check.

Pro tip: Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.

6

Make the tzatziki sauce

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Pro tip: For a thicker sauce, strain the yogurt before mixing.

7

Serve

Serve the chicken souvlaki skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce, warm pita, and a fresh village salad.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • For extra flavour, let the chicken marinate overnight.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve with warm pita for an authentic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chicken souvlaki?

Chicken souvlaki is a Greek dish consisting of skewered and grilled marinated chicken, often served with pita and tzatziki.

How long should I marinate chicken souvlaki?

Marinate chicken souvlaki for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight in the fridge.

What temperature should I grill chicken souvlaki?

Grill chicken souvlaki at medium-high heat, approximately 200°C (400°F).

How do I know when chicken souvlaki is done?

Chicken souvlaki is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I prepare chicken souvlaki ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to grill.

What to serve with chicken souvlaki?

Serve chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and a fresh village salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken souvlaki skewers warm, accompanied by a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and a side of fresh village salad. For the full Greek experience, wrap the skewers in warm pita bread, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra zest. To prepare in advance, you can marinate the chicken overnight and refrigerate until ready to grill. Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the juicy texture.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

32g

Protein

20g

Fat

8g

Carbs