My journey into the world of Chicken Souvlaki began with a single bite of juicy, marinated goodness. The tender chunks of chicken, grilled to perfection and infused with a blend of aromatic spices, immediately captivated my taste buds. As someone who loves crafting delicious, homemade meals, I knew I had to recreate this iconic Greek dish in my own kitchen. If you’re also a fan of Greek flavour’s then surely this chicken souvlaki recipe will transport you to the shores of Greece with each bite.
The Charm of Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken souvlaki, a popular Greek street food, consists of marinated chicken pieces skewered and grilled to perfection. The name “souvlaki” derives from the Greek word “souvla,” which means skewer. You will enjoy the simplicity and charm of this dish with just a few simple steps.
The History of Chicken Souvlaki
Souvlaki is more than just a popular Greek dish; it is a culinary tradition that reflects the rich history and culture of Greece. I found out that the word “souvlaki” is derived from “souvla,” a Greek term for skewer, did you know it has been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries.
A Greek chef told me that traditionally, souvlaki is made with various types of meat, including pork, lamb, but my favourite is chicken. Whilst the concept of skewered meat surely dates back to ancient times long ago. However the modern version of souvlaki as we know it today began to take shape in the mid-20th century. Street vendors and small restaurants across Greece started serving these delicious grilled skewers, making souvlaki a beloved fast food choice.
In Greek cuisine, souvlaki is celebrated for its simplicity and versatility and I usually serve it with Tzatziki and Pita Bread. Tzatziki—a tangy yogurt and cucumber sauce that perfectly complements the grilled meat. Why not check out my recipe for delicious tzatziki by clicking this link . The popularity of souvlaki has spread beyond Greece, becoming a favourite in many countries and inspiring variations around the world.
Health Benefits of Chicken Souvlaki: A Nutritious and Delicious Choice
Made primarily from boneless, skinless chicken breasts, it provides a rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall cellular health, with a typical serving offering about 30 grams of protein. The use of chicken breasts keeps the fat content low, making it a heart-healthy choice, especially when prepared with minimal added fats.
Chicken souvlaki is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. These include B vitamins for energy production and brain health, vitamin C from fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, and iron and zinc for oxygen transport and immune support.
The olive oil used in the marinade adds beneficial monounsaturated fats, which helps reduce bad cholesterol levels while boosting good cholesterol. Additionally, the herbs and spices like oregano and garlic provide antioxidant benefits, protecting cells from damage and offering anti-inflammatory effects.
Serving souvlaki with fresh vegetables or in a pita wrap adds fibre, which supports digestive health and overall well-being. Its versatility allows for customization to fit various dietary preferences, making it easy to create a balanced meal. Overall, chicken souvlaki offers a range of health benefits, from high protein and essential nutrients to heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. All in all making it a tasty and nutritious meal.
Conclusion
This homemade chicken souvlaki recipe brings the delightful taste of Greek cuisine into your kitchen with ease. Its vibrant flavours, combined with the smoky char from grilling, make it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favourite. Try it today and savour the essence of Greece with every bite!
Recommended Cookware
For grilling chicken souvlaki to perfection I use this really good quality grillpan that I found on Amazon. It gives the meat a really nice sear and replicates the BBQ effect. If you have the time/equipment then feel free to use real charcoal. If not an option you can find this pan by clicking this link.
Discover the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki Recipe: Tasty, Fresh and Easy
Course: MainCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy, Medium4
servings20
minutes40
minutes320
kcalIngredients
450g (3 cups) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for easy skewering.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil: Provides moisture and a rich flavour.
Juice of 1 lemon: Adds a tangy brightness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers a robust aroma.
2 teaspoons dried oregano: For that authentic Greek flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds depth and warmth.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smokiness.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Wooden or metal skewers: For grilling the chicken.
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavour.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using a cast iron grill pan, preheat it over medium heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skewers and serve with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and your choice of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
