What To Know
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Whether you’re enjoying souvlaki at a traditional Greek taverna or in the comfort of your own home, this dish is sure to transport you to the heart of Greece.
- So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Greece with George Calombaris’s chicken souvlaki recipe.
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Greece with George Calombaris’s tantalizing chicken souvlaki recipe. This dish, a staple in Greek cuisine, promises an explosion of flavors, combining succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will lead you to souvlaki perfection.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables.
- Cut the red onion, green and yellow bell peppers, and zucchini into 1-inch pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
- Soak the wooden or metal skewers in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces, vegetables, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients.
Step 5: Grill the Souvlaki
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- While the souvlaki is grilling, prepare the tzatziki sauce.
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, dill, mint, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well blended.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the souvlaki from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the souvlaki skewers with the tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tips for Perfect Souvlaki
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.
- Cook the souvlaki over medium-high heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Serve the souvlaki immediately with tzatziki sauce and pita bread.
Variations of the George Calombaris Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
- Try different marinades, such as a yogurt-based marinade or a honey-mustard marinade.
- Experiment with different vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or eggplant.
- Add feta cheese or crumbled bacon to the skewers for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve the souvlaki with a side of roasted potatoes or a Greek salad.
The Art of Greek Souvlaki
Souvlaki is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary expression of Greek culture. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables embodies the essence of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying souvlaki at a traditional Greek taverna or in the comfort of your own home, this dish is sure to transport you to the heart of Greece.
“Souvlaki Sensations: A Culinary Journey”
Conclusion
George Calombaris’s chicken souvlaki recipe is a testament to the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage of Greece. With its succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is a true masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will lead you to souvlaki perfection. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Greece with George Calombaris’s chicken souvlaki recipe.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They have a slightly richer flavor and are less likely to dry out.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken and make it more tender.
Q: Can I grill the souvlaki in a pan instead of on a grill?
A: Yes, you can grill the souvlaki in a pan. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through.
