Greek cuisine is a tapestry of rich flavors and diverse textures. From the sharpness of feta cheese to the deep notes of olive oil, every dish is a sensory delight. Among the array of Greek delicacies, Chicken Souvlaki, akin to the renowned Greek Gyro, emerges as an evergreen favorite.

This iconic dish, characterized by its succulent chicken morsels soaked in a vibrant lemon-garlic marinade, epitomizes the spirit of Greek summertime barbecues. Join us as we journey through the nuances of Chicken Souvlaki, from its storied past to its preparation and presentation. And as a special treat, at the end of this article, we’ve included some delectable variations of this classic for you to explore!

A Glimpse into the World of Chicken Souvlaki

Souvlaki, a term derived from the Greek word meaning “grilled meat on a skewer,” is a staple in Greek street food culture. Unlike its close relatives, the kabobs, which are often paired with vegetables on the skewer, Souvlaki focuses solely on the meat. This allows the flavors of the marinade to shine through, complemented by the smoky char from the grill. The dish is traditionally served with a side of fresh veggies, Greek dolmades or a Greek salad, but the pièce de résistance is the drizzle of tzatziki sauce, adding a creamy and refreshing dimension to the meal.

Chicken Souvlaki Ingredients:

• Chicken: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best grilling experience.
• Marinade: A blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Tzatziki Sauce: While store-bought versions work, a homemade tzatziki sauce, whether traditional or vegan, elevates the dish.
• Paprika: A mild spice that adds depth and a hint of smokiness to the marinade.

Greek Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• ⅓ cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• tzatziki sauce

Instructions

1. Preparation of Marinade:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well-blended.
   • The addition of paprika not only enhances the color but also imparts a subtle smokiness.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
   • Cut your chicken breasts into 1 ½-inch cubes, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
   • Place the chicken cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the fridge. While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating overnight will intensify the flavors.
3. Grilling the Chicken:
   • Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat for optimal cooking.
   • Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
   • Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, spacing them slightly apart to ensure all sides cook evenly.
   • Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. The chicken should have a charred exterior and a juicy interior.
   • Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Serving:
   • Lay the grilled Chicken Souvlaki on a serving platter.
   • Drizzle with tzatziki sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
   • Garnish it with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an added touch.

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Tips for the Perfect Chicken Souvlaki:

• Marination: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. However, avoid marinating chicken for more than 24 hours as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken.
• Grilling: Ensure the grill is adequately preheated. A hot grill gives the chicken those desirable grill marks and seals in the juices.
• Serving: Chicken Souvlaki pairs beautifully with a side of Greek salad, pita bread, or even roasted vegetables.

Recipe Variations:

1. Pork Souvlaki:

• Description: For those who prefer pork over chicken, this variation offers a richer and more robust flavor profile.
• Instructions: Replace chicken with pork tenderloin, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes. Follow the same marinating and grilling process.

2. Spicy Souvlaki:

• Description: Add a kick to your Souvlaki with a touch of heat.
• Instructions: Incorporate a teaspoon of red chili flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili to the marinade. Grill as per the original recipe.

3. Herb-Infused Souvlaki:

• Description: Fresh herbs can elevate the aromatic profile of your Souvlaki.
• Instructions: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade. Grill as instructed.

4. Lemon-Herb Souvlaki:

• Description: A zesty variation that brings out the freshness of lemon combined with aromatic herbs.
• Instructions: Double the amount of lemon juice in the marinade and introduce lemon zest. Add fresh dill or mint for a refreshing twist.

5. Mediterranean Souvlaki:

• Description: A fusion of flavors that encapsulates the essence of the Mediterranean.
• Instructions: To the marinade, add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives. This will give the Souvlaki a tangy and briny flavor, reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast.

Greek cuisine is renowned for its harmonious blend of flavors, and this Greek Lemon Chicken is no exception. With its tantalizing lemon-herb marinade, this dish promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Not only is it a treat for the palate, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it excellent for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The Magic Behind Greek Lemon Chicken

Chicken, especially the thigh portion, is cherished for its juicy and tender meat. When combined with the right ingredients, it transforms into a culinary masterpiece. This recipe celebrates the union of chicken with a zesty lemon marinade infused with aromatic herbs. The result? A golden-baked chicken that’s irresistibly delicious.

Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs (or chicken breast if you prefer)
• ⅓ cup olive oil (extra-virgin)
• ⅓ cup lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, lemon zest (if using), oregano, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
2. Marinating the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Baking to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish, arranging them skin side up. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. For an added touch of crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
4. Serving: Once baked to perfection, serve the Greek lemon chicken with this Greek lemon rice, or your choice of side dishes. Garnishing with fresh lemon slices or herbs is optional.

Ready to take your Greek Lemon Chicken to legendary status? Dive into these zesty twists and let your taste buds dance the sirtaki! And hey, if you’re feeling the love, why not pin the image below? After all, sharing is caring… especially when it’s this delicious!

Delectable Variations of Greek Lemon Chicken:

1. Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red chili flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy twist.
2. Creamy Lemon Chicken: After baking, pour a mixture of ½ cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan over the chicken. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until creamy and bubbly.
3. Lemon Chicken with Olives: Add ½ cup of pitted Kalamata olives to the baking dish before cooking for a briny depth of flavor.
4. Herb-Loaded Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro to the marinade for a burst of freshness.
5. Lemon Chicken with Feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the chicken 10 minutes before it’s done baking for a creamy, tangy addition.
6. Honey Lemon Glaze: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and brush over the chicken in the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
7. Lemon Chicken with Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for a wholesome one-pan meal.
8. Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken: Before marinating, stuff each chicken thigh with a mixture of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta. Secure with toothpicks and proceed with the recipe.
9. Lemon Chicken Skewers: Instead of baking, thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers with bell peppers and red onions. Grill until charred and cooked through.
10. Lemon Chicken with Capers: Add 2 tablespoons of drained capers to the baking dish for a salty and tangy bite.

Craving some Mexican flair tonight? These chicken fajitas, made in the air fryer, are your ticket to a quick yet flavorful dinner. The homemade seasoning adds a touch of authenticity, ensuring every bite is as good as your favorite restaurant’s.

When it comes to whipping up a quick and delightful dinner, nothing beats the convenience of an air fryer. And if you’re a fan of fajitas, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into a revamped version of the classic chicken fajitas optimized for the air fryer. This dish not only promises a burst of flavor but also ensures a nutritious meal option for those busy weeknights.

Making Your Own Fajita Seasoning

Store-bought fajita seasonings often contain additives and preservatives. Why not craft your own at home with spices you trust? Making your seasoning ensures a fresh and authentic taste. Plus, it’s economical and free from unwanted chemicals. This blend is versatile and can be used for various dishes beyond fajitas.

Air-Fryer Chicken Fajitas Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Homemade Fajita Seasoning:

• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken Fajitas:

• 1 lb of chicken breasts, sliced into elongated pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips of about ½ inch
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into approximately ½ inch strips
• 1 green bell pepper, divided into strips close to ½ inch
• 1 red onion, partitioned into wedge sections
• 1 tbsp of cooking oil.

Instructions:

1. Making the Fajita Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Preparation: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
3. Seasoning the Chicken and Veggies: In a large bowl, drizzle oil over the chicken strips. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring they’re well-coated.
4. Cooking: Place the seasoned chicken and veggies in the air fryer basket. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Serving: Serve your fajitas with warm tortillas and your choice of toppings, such as guacamole, pico de gallo, or avocado slices.

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Chicken Fajitas Variations:

1. Spicy Chipotle Fajitas: Add 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder to the seasoning mix for a smoky and spicy kick. Top with a chipotle mayo drizzle for added flavor.

2. Tropical Fajitas: Mix in 1 cup of diced pineapples with the chicken and peppers. The sweet and tangy pineapples complement the spices beautifully. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

3. Fajita Bowls: Instead of tortillas, serve the fajita mix over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice. Add black beans, corn, and a dollop of sour cream to make it a hearty bowl.

4. Cheesy Fajitas: Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese over the cooked fajitas while they’re still hot. The melt-in-your-mouth cheese adds a creamy texture.

5. Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before marinating.

6. Surf ‘n Turf Fajitas: Combine the best of both worlds by adding shrimp to the chicken mix. Ensure the shrimp are deveined and tail-off. They’ll cook quickly, so add them halfway through the air frying process.