Homemade Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki skewers are kabobs that have been marinated in Greek flavors. The great thing about this dish is that the chicken really picks up the taste of the marinade, but it can also be used for pork. You can make your own homemade chicken souvlaki with fluffy pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce. 

What is Souvlaki?
Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish that typically consists of small pieces of meat and sometimes vegetables, which are marinated and then grilled on a skewer. The term "souvlaki" simply means "meat on skewers" in Greek. However, it can also refer to the meal itself where the grilled meat or vegetables are served with warm pita bread, often accompanied by sauces like tzatziki and garnishings such as tomatoes and onions.

Traditionally, souvlaki is made with pork, but it can also be made with other types of meat like chicken, beef, or lamb. There are even vegetarian versions that use grilled vegetables instead of meat. This dish is commonly served as a fast food item in Greece, but it can also be enjoyed in restaurants or at home.

INGREDIENTS OF CHICKEN SOUVLAKI
INGREDIENTS FOR CHICKEN

• 1 1/2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" pieces
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 6 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 tbsp. dried oregano

INGREDIENTS FOR TZATZIKI

• 1/2 c. Greek yogurt, preferably whole fat
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/3 c. finely chopped cucumber
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp. freshly chopped dill
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch red pepper flakes

INGREDIENTS FOR SERVING

• Pita, warmed 
• Thinly sliced tomatoes
• Chopped romaine 

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHICKEN SOUVLAKI

1. In a large bowl, season chicken well with salt and pepper. Add oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano to the bowl and toss everything together to coat the chicken. Cover the bowl tightly and let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
2. While the lamb is cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce: In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cucumber, garlic and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Before cooking, if you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Then, turn on the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Next, put the chicken onto the skewers.
4. Grill each side for 6 minutes or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°.
5. For best results, serve inside a warmed pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, and romaine.

Types of meat that can be used for grilled chicken souvlaki
When we talk about "grilled chicken souvlaki," it means the souvlaki has chicken in it. But you can also make souvlaki with different kinds of meat. Here are some alternatives you could consider:

• Pork: This is a traditional choice for souvlaki in Greece. Pork tenderloin or shoulder would work well due to their tenderness and flavor.
• Beef: Choose a tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye, for a robust and hearty souvlaki.
• Lamb: Lamb is a type of meat used in Mediterranean food. It can make a yummy and filling souvlaki.
• Vegetables: If you don't eat meat, you can make skewers with vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Marinate them the same way you would marinate meat. Then grill them.

Remember to cut your chosen meat or vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Greek herbs for that classic souvlaki flavor.

Best Marinade for Chicken Souvlaki
The best marinade for chicken souvlaki encompasses a blend of Mediterranean flavors. Here's a general idea based on the search results:

• Olive Oil: This forms the base of the marinade, helping to tenderize the meat and carry the flavors.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds tanginess and helps to tenderize the chicken.
• Garlic: Minced or crushed garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the chicken well.
• Oregano: This is a classic Greek herb that's essential in a souvlaki marinade.
• Rosemary and Sweet Paprika: Some recipes recommend these additional spices for extra depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: These are basic seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural flavor.

To make delicious chicken souvlaki, let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least a few hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Which dips should be served with Chicken Souvlaki?
One of the common accompaniments for Chicken Souvlaki is a range of dips that include some popular ones.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This is a classic Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil, and often includes herbs like dill. It's cool, and creamy, and balances out the smoky flavors of the grilled chicken.
• Hummus: This Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic also pairs well with chicken souvlaki. It adds a rich, savory element to the dish.
• Baba Ganoush: This is a smoky eggplant dip that can add a different flavor profile to your chicken souvlaki. It's made by roasting eggplant until charred, then blending with tahini, lemon juice, and various seasonings.
• Feta Cheese Dip: This dip combines feta cheese with yogurt, garlic, and sometimes spicy peppers for a tangy, creamy accompaniment.
• Red Pepper Dip: This dip is called Roasted Red Pepper Feta Dip or Htipiti. It has roasted red peppers, feta cheese, olive oil, and some spices all mixed together. It provides a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory souvlaki.

Remember, the best dip for you depends on your personal taste preference. Feel free to experiment with these options and find your favorite pairing!

Side dishes to serve with Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken Souvlaki pairs well with a variety of side dishes that highlight Greek flavors. Here are some popular options:

• Greek Lemon Rice: A fragrant side dish that adds a refreshing citrus note, balancing out the savory souvlaki.
• Greek Green Beans: These are cooked with tomatoes and olive oil, offering a hearty and healthy accompaniment.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This cucumber yogurt dip is not only great for dipping the souvlaki in, but also serves as a cool and creamy side.
• Greek Lemon Roasted Potatoes: Their tangy flavor complements the marinated chicken nicely, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
• Pita Bread: Often served warm, it's perfect for making wraps or simply to sop up any delicious marinade left on the plate.
• Greek Salad: Made with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, it adds a fresh and light touch to the meal.
• Israeli Salad: This salad made from chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley can also be a delightful addition.

Remember, the choice of side dishes can be tailored according to personal preferences and dietary needs.
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