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Traditional Greek Chicken Souvlaki


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Juicy, herb-marinated chicken skewers inspired by classic Greek street food, bursting with lemon, garlic, and oregano flavor. Perfect for serving with warm pita, fresh salad, and creamy tzatziki.


Ingredients

600 g (1.3 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or dried thyme


Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and any optional spices until well combined.
  2. Cut the chicken into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 1½ inches each.
  3. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  6. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates if needed.
  7. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  8. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill than breasts.

For oven cooking, bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Serve with pita, tzatziki, Greek salad, rice, or roasted potatoes.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze cooked chicken (removed from skewers) for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg