Greek cuisine is renowned for its fresh, aromatic ingredients and simple, yet intensely flavorful dishes. Among its numerous iconic recipes, Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Pita and Tzatziki stands out as an all-time favorite. This dish is an embodiment of Greek culinary tradition – tender marinated chicken, fresh pita bread, and creamy tzatziki sauce – that perfectly balances taste, texture, and nutrition.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make an authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki with all the accompanying elements, including the pita and tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this step-by-step recipe will guide you to achieve perfect souvlaki every time. We will also explore the health benefits, provide tips for success, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure a thorough understanding of this Mediterranean favorite.
Overview: Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Calories per Serving: 450 kcal (approx.)
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Pita and Tzatziki
To achieve the rich, traditional flavors of Greek Chicken Souvlaki, fresh and quality ingredients are essential. Below are the ingredients you’ll need for the chicken, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients for Chicken Souvlaki
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Ingredients for Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill (optional, finely chopped)
Ingredients for Assembly
- 4 pita breads
- Sliced red onion
- Sliced tomatoes
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
Directions: How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki
To create this delicious Greek dish, follow these step-by-step instructions that include marinating, cooking, and assembling the dish.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The key to tender, flavorful souvlaki lies in marinating the chicken. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts into the bowl and ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Rest Time: Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. The longer the marinade time, the deeper the flavor penetration.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Grill or Skillet: Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You could also use an outdoor grill for an authentic charred flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Once the grill or skillet is hot, place the marinated chicken cubes on it. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a creamy, tangy complement that elevates the chicken souvlaki. Here’s how to make it:
- Grate the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber, grate it finely, and squeeze out the excess water using a cheesecloth or by pressing it through a sieve. Removing excess moisture is important to achieve the right tzatziki consistency.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir until well mixed.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and fresh dill (optional) to taste. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Step 4: Assemble the Souvlaki with Pita
- Warm the Pita Breads: Heat the pita breads in a skillet or oven for a few minutes until soft and warm.
- Assemble the Ingredients: Place a few pieces of grilled chicken onto each pita bread. Add a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, followed by sliced red onions, tomatoes, and fresh lettuce leaves.
- Fold and Serve: Fold the pita around the filling and serve immediately.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Your Greek Chicken Souvlaki is now ready to serve! The combination of juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fresh vegetables wrapped in warm pita bread makes for an irresistible meal. Enjoy it with a side of Greek salad or roasted potatoes for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Tips for Making the Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Freshness is key to making an authentic and delicious Greek souvlaki. Use fresh chicken, high-quality olive oil, and fresh herbs whenever possible to enhance the flavors.
2. Don’t Skip the Marination
Marinating the chicken is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful pieces. If possible, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for even better results.
3. Grill for Authentic Flavor
Using a grill (whether indoor or outdoor) helps impart a smoky, authentic flavor to the souvlaki. If a grill is unavailable, a hot skillet will still give you good results.
4. Keep Tzatziki Thick
Be sure to remove as much water from the grated cucumber as possible to avoid a runny tzatziki. The consistency should be thick and creamy.
Health Benefits of Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at why this dish can be a nutritious addition to your diet.
1. High in Protein
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which is vital for muscle building and overall body maintenance. Each serving provides ample protein to keep you satisfied and energized.
2. Rich in Healthy Fats
Olive oil, used in both the marinade and tzatziki sauce, is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
3. Low in Carbohydrates
This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, especially if served without pita bread or with whole-wheat pita. It’s suitable for those following a low-carb diet or looking for a balanced meal.
4. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
The fresh vegetables (cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and lettuce) provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote good health and boost immunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Souvlaki?
Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of meat, often marinated and grilled, served on skewers or wrapped in pita bread along with vegetables and sauces like tzatziki. Chicken, pork, and lamb are commonly used for souvlaki.
2. Can I Make Chicken Souvlaki Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also grill the chicken and store it for a few days in the refrigerator, reheating it when you are ready to serve.
3. Can I Use Other Meats?
Absolutely! While chicken is a popular choice, you can also use beef or lamb for souvlaki. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Is Greek Chicken Souvlaki Gluten-Free?
The chicken and tzatziki sauce are naturally gluten-free. To make the entire dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pita bread.
Tips for Customizing Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Add More Veggies: Customize your souvlaki by adding grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade if you like a bit of heat.
- Serve with a Side: Souvlaki goes great with a side of roasted potatoes, Greek salad, or even a light quinoa salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Pita and Tzatziki is a delicious, satisfying, and healthy meal that brings the authentic taste of Greece straight to your kitchen. By following the detailed steps above, you can master this dish, impressing friends and family with its rich flavors and textures.
Not only does this dish burst with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, but it also offers numerous health benefits. The lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich vegetables make it a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a summer barbecue.
With the right ingredients and techniques, making Greek Chicken Souvlaki at home is both easy and rewarding. So fire up your grill, gather your fresh ingredients, and treat yourself to a taste of Greece. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Pita and Tzatziki!
Additional Recipe Variations to Try
For those who want to experiment further, consider trying variations such as:
- Vegetarian Souvlaki: Replace chicken with marinated halloumi or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Lamb Souvlaki: Use tender pieces of lamb marinated in olive oil, lemon, and oregano for a rich and authentic Greek flavor.
No matter the variation, the spirit of Greek cooking remains – simple, fresh ingredients, and a focus on natural flavors.
