Authentic Chicken Souvlaki Oven: A Delicious Recipe for Greek Flavor at Home

Authentic Chicken Souvlaki Oven is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. This beloved recipe features tender marinated chicken skewers, grilled to perfection, and is often served with warm pita bread and a refreshing tzatziki sauce. The origins of souvlaki date back to ancient Greece, where it was a popular street food enjoyed by locals and travelers alike. Today, it remains a staple in Greek cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.

People adore Authentic Chicken Souvlaki Oven not only for its mouthwatering taste but also for its convenience. This oven-baked version allows you to enjoy the same smoky, charred goodness without the need for a grill, making it perfect for any home cook. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its combination of juicy chicken, aromatic herbs, and zesty marinade, it’s no wonder that chicken souvlaki has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Pita bread (for serving)
• Greek tzatziki sauce (for serving)

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag.
3. Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour, but ideally for 4-6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Skewers

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
3. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.

Cooking the Chicken Souvlaki

1. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This will allow the heat to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking.
2. Arrange the skewers on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching each other. This will help them cook evenly and get a nice char.
3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken souvlaki for 20-25 minutes, turning the skewers halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. If you prefer a charred finish, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the skewers to prevent burning.

Assembling and Serving

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
2. While the chicken is resting, warm the pita bread in the oven for about 5 minutes or on a skillet over medium heat until soft and pliable.
3. To serve, place a few pieces of chicken souvlaki on each pita bread. You can add toppings such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and lettuce for added freshness.
4. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
5. Wrap the pita around the fillings and enjoy your authentic chicken souvlaki!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Souvlaki

• For the best flavor, use fresh herbs if possible. Fresh oregano can be substituted for dried oregano, and fresh garlic can enhance the marinade.
• Feel free to customize the marinade by adding spices like coriander or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• If you want to add vegetables to your skewers, consider bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking.
• Serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Leftover chicken souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for

Conclusion:

In summary, this Authentic Chicken Souvlaki Oven recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to bring the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine into their home. The marinated chicken, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, delivers a delightful taste that is both tender and juicy, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you serve it with warm pita bread, a refreshing Greek salad, or a side of tzatziki sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding colorful bell peppers and red onions to your skewers for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, you can experiment with different marinades, such as a lemon-garlic or yogurt-based sauce, to create your own unique twist on this classic dish. We encourage you to try this Authentic Chicken Souvlaki Oven recipe and share your experience with us! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, we believe you’ll find joy in preparing and savoring this delicious meal. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it on social media, tagging us so we can see your culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking!

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