Marinating chicken is a game changer when it comes to flavor! It infuses the meat with a delicious depth that you just can’t achieve by seasoning alone. This Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade is my go-to for grilling – it’s bright, zesty, and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. I remember the first time I tried making souvlaki at home; the aroma of garlic and lemon wafting through my kitchen took me straight to a sun-soaked Greek taverna! Trust me, once you try this marinade, you’ll want to keep it in your back pocket for all your summer barbecues. It’s that good!
Ingredients List
- 1/4 cup olive oil: This will be the base of our marinade, giving it richness and depth.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It adds that bright, zesty kick.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor – don’t skimp on this!
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A classic herb in Greek cooking that adds an earthy note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little heat to balance out the richness.
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes: The star of the show! Tender and juicy chicken is perfect for grilling.
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and you can almost smell that Mediterranean magic!
- Now, take your chicken cubes and toss them into the marinade. Make sure every piece is coated thoroughly – this is where the flavor begins!
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour. But if you can wait, overnight is even better! Your chicken will be bursting with flavor.
- When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful char marks. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this Greek Chicken Souvlaki, you’ll be pleased to know it’s not just delicious but also pretty wholesome! Each serving, which is one skewer, packs around 250 calories. You’ll get 15g of fat, with only 2g of that being saturated. Plus, it’s a great source of protein, boasting 25g per skewer! There’s hardly any sugar or carbs – just 1g of carbs and 0g of sugar. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this dish is a fantastic option for a satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unforgettable flavor: The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and earthy oregano makes every bite a taste of the Mediterranean.
- Super easy to prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a delicious marinade in no time!
- Perfect for grilling: Whether on skewers or as a chicken salad, this marinade keeps your chicken juicy and tender.
- Meal versatility: Serve it with pita bread, a refreshing Greek salad, or even throw it on top of rice for a complete meal.
- Make ahead: Marinate the chicken in advance for a quick and easy dinner option – just grill and enjoy!
Tips for Success
To get the absolute best flavor from your Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade, don’t rush the marinating process—aim for at least an hour, but overnight is truly ideal! This helps the flavors penetrate deep into the chicken. Also, be sure to cut your chicken into even-sized cubes so they cook evenly on the grill. When grilling, resist the urge to constantly flip them; let them sit long enough to develop those lovely char marks. And remember, if you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Trust me, these little tips will take your souvlaki to the next level!
Variations
One of the best things about this Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade is its versatility! If you’re in the mood for something different, try substituting the chicken with beef or shrimp. Both options soak up the marinade beautifully and add their own delicious twist. You can also get creative with herbs—fresh parsley or thyme can add a lovely freshness. For a smoky flavor, toss in a bit of smoked paprika. And don’t forget about veggies! Bell peppers and onions threaded onto the skewers alongside your protein not only look gorgeous but also taste amazing when grilled. Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Serving your Greek Chicken Souvlaki is where the fun really begins! I love pairing it with warm, fluffy pita bread – it’s perfect for wrapping up those juicy skewers. Don’t forget a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce; the creamy, cool yogurt mixed with cucumber and garlic complements the zesty chicken beautifully. A simple Greek salad with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, and briny feta makes for a fresh side, adding a burst of color to your plate. You could even serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your Greek Chicken Souvlaki is super simple! Just place any uneaten skewers in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3 days. When it comes to reheating, I like to use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be careful not to overdo it, as it can dry out the chicken. Enjoy those delicious flavors all over again!
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Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade: 5 Bold Flavors to Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful Greek chicken souvlaki marinade that enhances the taste of grilled chicken.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 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 coat well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread chicken onto skewers and grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for best flavor.
- Serve with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
- Can substitute chicken with beef or shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Greek Chicken Souvlaki Marinade