Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade yet, you’re in for a real treat! This marinade is bursting with vibrant flavors—think zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and the earthy warmth of oregano. It’s no wonder this dish is a staple in Greek cuisine! I love how versatile it is; whether you’re grilling it up for a summer barbecue or tossing it into a weeknight dinner rotation, it never disappoints. The chicken comes out so tender and juicy, infused with all those delightful flavors. Trust me, once you try this marinade, it’ll become your go-to for any grilling occasion. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy days when you still want a delicious meal. Let’s dive in and get started on this flavorful journey!
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano (the star of the show!)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance all those lovely flavors)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (a little kick never hurt anyone)
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes (make sure they’re bite-sized for grilling perfection)
How to Prepare Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade
Getting started on your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade is super simple, and I promise it’s worth every second! Let’s break it down step by step so you can soak those chicken cubes in flavor heaven.
Mixing the Marinade
First off, grab a medium-sized bowl and pour in that glorious olive oil. Next, add the lemon juice—freshly squeezed, of course, because it makes a world of difference! Now, toss in your minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. It’s crucial to mix everything thoroughly; I like to use a whisk to make sure all those flavors blend beautifully together. You want your marinade to be a harmonious concoction that will truly elevate your chicken!
Marinating the Chicken
Once your marinade is ready, it’s time to introduce the chicken cubes. Place them in the bowl and give them a good toss, making sure every piece is coated in that flavorful marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Now, here’s the secret: for the best flavor, let that chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can swing it, overnight is even better! This gives the chicken time to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Grilling the Chicken
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread those marinated chicken cubes onto skewers—wooden or metal, whatever you have on hand! Just make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is beautifully charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Your taste buds are in for a treat!
Tips for Success with Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade
To really take your Greek Chicken Souvlaki to the next level, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! First off, if you can, let your chicken marinate overnight. This allows those flavors to really penetrate the meat, making it even more delicious. Also, don’t shy away from using fresh herbs if you have them; they can elevate the flavor profile to new heights! When it comes time to grill, be sure to preheat your grill properly—this helps achieve that perfect char. And for serving, I love pairing the grilled chicken with warm pita bread and homemade tzatziki sauce; it’s a match made in heaven! Lastly, don’t forget to add a fresh Greek salad on the side for a burst of color and crunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Grilling is a breeze with this marinade, making it ideal for summer barbecues.
- Packed with flavor from fresh ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how delicious it is!
- Versatile enough to serve in wraps, salads, or on its own with your favorite sides.
- Healthy and low calorie, so you can indulge without the guilt!
- Perfect for meal prep—marinate in advance for effortless cooking later.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Greek Chicken Souvlaki, knowing the nutritional breakdown is super helpful, especially if you’re keeping an eye on what you eat! Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy your deliciously healthy meal without any worries!
FAQ about Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade
Got questions about Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade? I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into some of the most common queries you might have.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken? Absolutely! This marinade works beautifully with pork, shrimp, or even vegetables if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
How long can I store the marinade? If you have leftover marinade, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, once it’s been in contact with raw chicken, it’s best to discard it or cook it thoroughly before using.
Can I marinate the chicken for too long? While marinating overnight is fantastic, try not to exceed 24 hours. The acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much, which could affect the texture.
What if I don’t have a grill? No worries at all! You can cook the marinated chicken in a hot skillet on the stove, or even bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Just make sure to check that it’s cooked through!
How can I make it spicier? If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. It’ll give that extra kick you’re craving!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions—I’m here to help you on your cooking journey!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Greek Chicken Souvlaki leftovers is super easy and will help you enjoy those amazing flavors later! First, make sure to let the grilled chicken cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container—this helps keep them fresh and prevents any unwanted odors in your fridge. They’ll stay good for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat for the best results. Just add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking and warm the chicken gently, turning occasionally until heated through. This keeps the chicken nice and juicy! If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes on medium power, but be careful not to overheat, as that can dry it out. Enjoy those delicious flavors all over again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your Greek Chicken Souvlaki all grilled to perfection, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy it! Honestly, the options are endless, but here are some of my absolute favorites that really complement those vibrant flavors.
First up, warm pita bread is a must! You can either serve the chicken right inside the pita for a quick wrap or alongside it for dipping. Speaking of dipping, don’t forget a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce; the cool, creamy goodness pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken!
For a refreshing side, a crisp Greek salad is perfect. Just toss together some ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, and drizzle with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice. It adds a fantastic crunch and a splash of color to your plate!
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try serving your souvlaki with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Just season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender. They add a lovely Mediterranean touch!
Lastly, for a heartier option, consider pairing your souvlaki with rice pilaf or quinoa salad. Both are filling, flavorful, and make for a delightful meal. So go ahead and mix and match these serving ideas to create a beautiful and delicious spread!
Print
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade: 5 Bold Flavors to Love
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A flavorful marinade for Greek chicken souvlaki.
Ingredients
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread chicken onto skewers.
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate overnight.
- Serve with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade