Name: Quick Chicken Souvlaki
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (cut into cubes); 1 cup tzatziki sauce (for dipping)

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Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of whipping up some Quick Chicken Souvlaki in just 15 minutes! Seriously, when I’m in a rush but still craving something delicious, this recipe is my go-to. Picture this: tender chicken marinated in zesty flavors, all perfectly grilled on skewers, ready to dip in creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s like a mini vacation to Greece right in my kitchen! I remember the first time I made it; I was juggling work and family, but the smell of the chicken sizzling on the grill pan filled my home and brought everyone to the table. It’s a meal that turns a hectic night into a delightful family dinner without the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this quick and tasty dish in your weeknight rotation!

Quick Chicken Souvlaki (15 min) - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious Quick Chicken Souvlaki:

For the Marinade:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes

For Serving:

1 cup tzatziki sauce, for dipping

How to Prepare Quick Chicken Souvlaki

Getting your Quick Chicken Souvlaki ready is a breeze! Here’s how to do it step by step, ensuring your meal turns out juicy and flavorful.

Marinate the Chicken

First things first, let’s talk about marinating! This is where the magic begins. Take your chicken breast cubes and toss them into a bowl with your favorite marinade. I love a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a sprinkle of oregano. It’s zesty and pairs perfectly with chicken! Let the chicken soak up those flavors for about 15 minutes. If you’ve got a little extra time, feel free to marinate it longer for even more flavor. Just don’t go overboard, as too much acidity can make the chicken tough.

Skewering the Chicken

Now onto the skewering! Grab some skewers—if you’re using wooden ones, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly. You can get creative by adding veggies like bell peppers or onions in between the chicken, which adds extra flavor and color. Just make sure everything is cut to a similar size for even cooking!

Grilling Instructions

Time to grill! Heat your grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the skewers in the pan. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden-brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the juices run clear. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook! The smell of the sizzling chicken will have you dreaming of warm summer nights. Once done, let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This little wait will help keep them juicy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional values for my Quick Chicken Souvlaki, perfect for keeping track of what you’re enjoying:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 400mg
Potassium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 40g
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 1mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. But this gives you a ballpark figure to work from! Enjoy your cooking adventure without worrying too much about the numbers—they’re all about balance, right?

Tips for Success

Now, let’s make sure your Quick Chicken Souvlaki turns out absolutely perfect every time! First off, don’t skip the marinating step; it’s crucial for infusing flavor into your chicken. If you can, prepare your marinade ahead of time and let the chicken soak overnight in the fridge. You’ll be amazed at how much more flavorful it becomes!

When it comes to grilling, make sure your grill pan is hot enough before adding the skewers. This helps get those lovely grill marks and seals in the juices. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing up your marinades! A yogurt-based marinade adds a tangy flavor, while a spicy blend can kick it up a notch.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies on your skewers! Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms can add delightful textures and flavors. Just remember to cut everything to a similar size for even cooking. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your souvlaki game!

Variations

One of the best things about Quick Chicken Souvlaki is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep your meals exciting. For starters, let’s talk marinades. Instead of the classic olive oil and lemon, why not try a spicy harissa or a sweet teriyaki sauce? Both will give your chicken a unique twist that’ll wow your taste buds. You could even go for a Mediterranean yogurt marinade with herbs like dill and mint for a refreshing flavor.

Feeling adventurous? Add some different veggies to your skewers! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even chunks of pineapple can add a burst of flavor and color. I love mixing in some zucchini or red onion for a bit of crunch and sweetness. Just remember to cut everything into similar sizes so they cook evenly!

For serving suggestions, consider pairing your souvlaki with a tangy quinoa salad or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil. If you want to make it a bit heartier, wrap your souvlaki in warm pita bread with a sprinkle of feta and some fresh herbs. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with different dipping sauces! In addition to tzatziki, a garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayo can take your meal to a whole new level. The sky’s the limit, so get creative, and make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your Quick Chicken Souvlaki, the sides are where you can really let your creativity shine! I love serving it alongside warm, fluffy pita bread. It’s perfect for wrapping around those juicy chicken skewers, making every bite a delightful experience. You can easily dip the pita in that creamy tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Yum!

Fresh vegetables are another fantastic pairing. I usually whip up a vibrant Greek salad with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. A drizzle of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice ties it all together beautifully. The crunchiness of the veggies complements the tender chicken perfectly!

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider a side of roasted or grilled vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus seasoned with your favorite herbs can add a lovely touch to your table. They’re quick to prepare and add a pop of color that makes everything look appetizing.

And let’s not forget about a refreshing quinoa salad or a tabbouleh loaded with parsley and mint. These salads pair wonderfully with the flavors of the souvlaki and keep things light and healthy. I often add a handful of chickpeas for some extra protein and texture!

No matter what you choose to serve, the key is to keep it fresh and vibrant. Trust me, your Quick Chicken Souvlaki will shine even brighter with these delicious accompaniments!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve whipped up a batch of Quick Chicken Souvlaki and have some delicious leftovers? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to store them properly to keep that flavor intact! Start by letting the skewers cool down to room temperature. Once they’re cool, you can transfer them into an airtight container. I usually wrap them in plastic wrap first, then pop them into the container for extra protection against any freezer burn. If you plan on eating them within a few days, they’ll be just fine in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep them longer, go ahead and freeze them! Just make sure to seal them well to prevent freezer burn. They should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Now, onto reheating! You want to bring back that juicy goodness, right? If you’ve got a grill pan or an actual grill, that’s my favorite way to reheat them! Just preheat your pan over medium heat and grill the skewers for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. This method helps to revive that lovely grilled flavor. If you’re short on time, you can also pop them in the microwave, but I suggest covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat for 30-second intervals until warm, but keep a close eye on them!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, your Quick Chicken Souvlaki will taste just as delicious as the first day you made it. Enjoy every last bite!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the marinade ahead of time is a great idea. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This way, when you’re ready to make your Quick Chicken Souvlaki, all you have to do is toss in the chicken and let it marinate. It will save you time and enhance the flavors even more!

Q2. What if I don’t have skewers?
No worries at all! If you don’t have skewers, you can still enjoy the flavors of Quick Chicken Souvlaki. Just cook the marinated chicken cubes in a grill pan or on an outdoor grill without skewering them. You can also sauté them in a skillet for a quick and delicious alternative. It’ll still be just as tasty!

Q3. How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, make sure not to over-marinate. About 15 to 30 minutes is perfect! Additionally, when grilling, cook the chicken over medium-high heat and keep an eye on it. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Letting it rest for a few minutes after grilling also helps retain moisture.

Q4. Can I use other proteins for this recipe?
Definitely! While chicken is a classic choice for souvlaki, you can easily swap it out for other proteins like shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked to perfection!

Q5. What are some good sides to serve with chicken souvlaki?
You’ve got tons of delicious options! I love pairing my Quick Chicken Souvlaki with warm pita bread, a refreshing Greek salad, or even roasted vegetables. You can also whip up some tzatziki or hummus for dipping. Whatever you choose, just keep it fresh and vibrant for the perfect meal!

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out my Pinterest page!