1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
- Make the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a large resealable bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat the Grill or Pan:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or if cooking indoors, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or the pan to prevent sticking.
- Skewer the Chicken:
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. If using a skillet or grill pan, cook for the same amount of time, ensuring the chicken is cooked evenly on all sides.
- Check for Doneness:
- The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
3. Assemble and Serve:
- Prepare the Toppings:
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare your serving station with warmed pita bread or flatbreads, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables.
- Assemble the Souvlaki:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skewers. Serve the chicken on a platter alongside the pita bread, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. Guests can assemble their own souvlaki wraps or enjoy the chicken skewers on their own with the sides.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips for Success:
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 2 hours if possible.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken skewers under the broiler or in a skillet for similar results.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Make your own tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill for a fresh and authentic taste.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Souvlaki recipe is perfect for bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your home. The combination of juicy, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, Chicken Souvlaki is a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Greece with every bite!