What To Know
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- It’s a dish that brings people together, whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a taverna by the sea, or a lively festival.
- This recipe elevates humble leftovers into a symphony of flavors, combining the savory richness of chicken, the vibrant zest of lemon and herbs, and the delightful crunch of grilled vegetables.
Are you looking for creative ways to transform leftover chicken into a mouthwatering dish? Look no further than this delectable leftover chicken souvlaki recipe. Souvlaki, a traditional Greek dish, is a flavorful combination of marinated meat grilled on skewers. This recipe ingeniously utilizes leftover chicken, infusing it with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and succulent vegetables, creating a dish that rivals freshly grilled souvlaki.
Ingredients:
- Leftover cooked chicken, shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Wooden skewers
- Bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shredded or cut chicken to the marinade and stir to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
- Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 15 minutes to prevent them from burning while grilling.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle any remaining marinade over the skewers to enhance their flavor.
3. Grill the Souvlaki:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
4. Serve with Accompaniments:
- Serve the grilled chicken souvlaki with traditional Greek accompaniments such as tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a refreshing Greek salad.
- Drizzle additional olive oil and lemon juice over the souvlaki for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfect Souvlaki:
- Use high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor of the marinade and grilled souvlaki.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor absorption.
- Grill the souvlaki over medium-high heat to achieve a slightly crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Keep an eye on the souvlaki while grilling to prevent burning.
- Serve the souvlaki immediately with warm pita bread and your favorite accompaniments.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute grilled halloumi cheese or tofu for the chicken.
- Add a touch of heat to the marinade with a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant, to create a colorful and flavorful souvlaki.
- Serve the souvlaki with a side of rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Leftover Chicken Souvlaki Meal Prep:
- Prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Grill the souvlaki and let it cool completely. Store the cooked souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat the souvlaki in a preheated oven or on the grill until warmed through.
Health Benefits of Leftover Chicken Souvlaki:
- Leftover chicken souvlaki is a nutritious meal packed with lean protein from the chicken, antioxidants from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil.
- The herbs and spices used in the marinade provide additional antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- The combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats makes this dish a balanced and satisfying meal.
The Art of Souvlaki: A Cultural Delicacy
Souvlaki holds a special place in Greek cuisine, symbolizing hospitality, sharing, and celebration. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a taverna by the sea, or a lively festival. The aroma of grilled meat and vegetables, the tangy marinade, and the refreshing accompaniments create a sensory experience that captivates the senses.
“Leftover Chicken Souvlaki: A Culinary Symphony of Flavors”
In the realm of culinary delights, leftover chicken souvlaki stands as a testament to the transformative power of cooking. This recipe elevates humble leftovers into a symphony of flavors, combining the savory richness of chicken, the vibrant zest of lemon and herbs, and the delightful crunch of grilled vegetables. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, leaving you craving more.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I use other types of meat besides chicken in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, pork, or beef. Adjust the marinating time accordingly, as red meat may require longer to absorb the flavors.
2. What if I don’t have wooden skewers?
- You can use metal skewers or even sturdy rosemary or lemongrass stalks as alternatives.
3. How do I make tzatziki sauce to go with the souvlaki?
- Combine Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, and salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
