Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

This Grilled Chicken Souvlaki recipe is made with succulent chicken marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs, paired with a rainbow of grilled vegetables and optional creamy feta cheese. Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this delightful dish that is a taste of Greece in every bite!

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight

Are you craving a delicious and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece? This Grilled Chicken Souvlaki recipe is bursting with fresh flavors, tender grilled chicken, and a delightful assortment of veggies and toppings that will leave you wanting more.

The best part is, these Greek chicken skewers are sure to impress your taste buds and guests alike for any summer barbecue cookout. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy-to-follow recipe will make you feel like a gourmet chef in no time.

What is Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of marinated and grilled chicken served on skewers. The chicken is typically flavored with a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various herbs and spices, giving it a delicious Mediterranean taste. It is often served with a variety of accompaniments, such as grilled vegetables, rice or pita bread, and optional toppings like feta cheese and Tzatziki sauce, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Recipe Ingredients

For the Greek Souvlaki Skewers:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein, the star of our souvlaki.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade stick to the chicken.
• Fresh lemon juice: Infuses the chicken with bright, citrusy notes.
• Red wine vinegar: Balances the flavors and adds a subtle tanginess.
• Garlic: Delivers aromatic depth and enhances the overall taste.
• Fresh herbs: A blend of oregano, thyme, and dill offers the quintessential Greek taste.
• Ground coriander: Adds a hint of earthy spice to complement the other flavors.

Bowls:

• Cauliflower rice or cooked rice or quinoa of choice: Offers a nutritious and delicious gluten-free base for the bowls.
• Sweet bell peppers: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Zucchini: Provides a tender and mild vegetable component.
• Cherry tomatoes: Bursting with juicy flavor and adds a pop of color.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Intensifies the umami and richness in the dish.
• Artichoke hearts: Offer a unique and delightful taste that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Greek olives: A Mediterranean staple, bringing a briny and salty kick to the bowls.
• Feta cheese: Optional but highly recommended for a creamy and tangy finish.

For the Tzatziki Sauce (optional):

• Plain Greek-style yogurt: The base for a creamy and refreshing sauce. Use Kite-Hill for dairy-free and Whole30 compliant.
• English cucumber: Adds coolness and a subtle crunch.
• Garlic: Complements the other flavors and gives a gentle kick.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest: Brightens up the sauce with a zesty twist.
• Fresh dill: Infuses the sauce with herbaceous goodness.

Instructions: How to make Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

• Prepare Marinade: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, thyme, dill, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
• Marinate Chicken: Toss cubed chicken in the greek chicken marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 45 minutes to 2 hours.
• Prep Vegetables: Slice zucchini, dice bell peppers, halve cherry tomatoes, and quarter artichoke hearts.
• Preheat Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Thread Chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers (metal or pre-soaked wooden).
• Grill Chicken: Brush grates with olive oil, grill chicken for 3-4 mins per side until cooked with char marks. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan or an indoor grill appliance works just as well.
• Cook the Vegetables: Grill zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and artichokes for 3-4 mins on each side until tender.
• Cook Rice / Quinoa: Prepare rice or quinoa according to package directions.
• Assemble Bowls: Divide cooked quinoa/rice among bowls, add grilled vegetables, olives, and chicken skewers.
• Optional Feta: Sprinkle feta cheese over the bowls for extra creaminess.
• Serve and Enjoy: Optionally, serve with Tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki!

Tips for Success

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the flavorful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices ensures it becomes tender and packed with taste.
• Soak the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent burning on the grill.
• Grill the veggies: Grilling the vegetables adds a delicious smoky flavor and brings out their natural sweetness.
• Customize toppings: Get creative with toppings like hummus, fresh herbs, or lemon wedges to enhance the dish to your liking.

Storage and Freezer Instructions:

If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken and vegetables should stay fresh for 3-4 days. As for the Tzatziki sauce, it’s best consumed within 2 days.

For freezer-friendly options, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve your Grilled Chicken Souvlaki over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice or your preferred cooked rice.
• Add a dollop of Tzatziki sauce on the side or drizzle it generously over the entire bowl.
• Don’t forget to sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of creaminess.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Seafood twist: Swap the chicken for shrimp or fish to create a delectable seafood souvlaki.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with marinated crispy tofu or air fryer chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Gluten-free option: Choose gluten-free flatbread or pita bread to accompany the bowls.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Can I use other types of meat for this recipe? Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute it with other proteins like shrimp, beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the grilling time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

2. Is there a dairy-free option for the Tzatziki sauce? Yes, there is! To make a dairy-free Tzatziki sauce, use a thick plain Greek-style yogurt alternative made from coconut or almond milk. Brands like Kite-Hill or Culina offer excellent coconut-based yogurt options that work well in this sauce.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Certainly! This Greek chicken skewer recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Just ensure that you choose gluten-free flatbread or pita bread to serve alongside the bowls.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance for meal prep? Absolutely! This Grilled Souvlaki is an excellent meal prep option. You can marinate the chicken in advance and grill it on the day you plan to serve it. Additionally, you can prepare the grilled vegetables and quinoa or rice ahead of time to make assembling the bowls quick and easy during the week.

5. Can I prepare this recipe without a grill? If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, fear not! You can use a stovetop grill pan or an indoor grill appliance to achieve those delicious grill marks on the chicken and vegetables.

More Mediterranean-inspired recipes you will love:

Falafel Recipe

Chicken Shawarma

Greek Chicken Skewers

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Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Prep Time

20 mins

Cook Time

10 mins

Resting Time

2 hrs

Total Time

2 hrs 30 mins

 

This Grilled Chicken Souvlaki recipe is made with succulent chicken marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs, paired with a rainbow of grilled vegetables and optional creamy feta cheese. Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this delightful dish that is a taste of Greece in every bite!

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chicken souvlaki, greek chicken, greek chicken skewers, grilled chicken skewers

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 387 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1-1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts , cut into 1 1/4-inch cubes
• 1/3 cup olive oil , divided (plus more for grill)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice , about 2 large lemons
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar for Whole30
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp fresh chopped oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried
• 1/2 tsp fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried
• 1/2 tsp fresh dill or 1/4 teaspoon dried
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• salt and black pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

• 2 cups cauliflower rice or cooked rice /quinoa of choice
• 3 large sweet bell peppers , diced into large chunks
• 3 medium zucchini , sliced into 1/4" rounds
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 cup jarred artichoke hearts quartered
• 1/3 cup assorted greek olives pitted
• 1/3 cup dairy-free or regular feta cheese crumbled optional - we like Violife for dairy-free
• For the Tzatziki Sauce optional - leave out for dairy free version:
• 1 cup thick plain Greek-style yogurt dairy-free or regular (we like Kite-Hill or Culina for a coconut based yogurt)
• 1/2 English cucumber , grated
• 1 clove garlic grated or minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp grated lemon zest
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• hummus
• flatbread or pita bread gluten-free as needed
• fresh basil parsley, or dill
• lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Whisk together marinade in a large bowl then add the cubed chicken and toss to coat.
2. Cover and refrigerate the chicken for 45 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Cook the rice / quinoa according to package directions and as desired.
4. **Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Thread the chicken onto metal or presoaked wooden skewers (about 30 minutes in water)
6. Brush the grates with olive oil then place the skewers over top. Grill the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, gently flipping and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and has light char marks.
7. While the chicken is grilling, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes and artichoke hearts onto the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender.
8. Fluff the quinoa brown rice and divide among bowls. Add grilled vegetables, olives, and chicken skewers.
9. Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve with extras as desired.
10. To make the Tzatziki sauce: combine all the ingredients by hand or a blender (if you want it smooth). Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Recipe Notes

**If you don't have a grill, you can also use a grill pan to cook everything on the stove.

How to store:

Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken and vegetables should stay fresh for 3-4 days.

As for the Tzatziki sauce, it's best consumed within 2 days.

How to freeze:

You can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Facts

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 387 Calories from Fat 153

% Daily Value*

Fat 17g26%

Saturated Fat 3g15%

Carbohydrates 41g14%

Fiber 6g24%

Sugar 9g10%

Protein 18g36%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Disclaimer: This updated post was generated on July 31, 2023 by ChatGPT, an AI language model, and all info should be reviewed and validated by a human for accuracy and relevancy before implementation.