Grilled Chicken Souvlaki
Equipment
- Brochettes wood or metal
- Bowl for marinade
- Barbecue grill or dish for barbecue
- Kitchen tongs
Ingredients
- 500 gr chicken fillets cut into 2-3 cm pieces
- 3 T to s. olive oil
- 2 T to s. fresh lemon lemon juice
- 2 cloves of garlic chopped
- 1 T to s. dried oregano
- 1 T to c. dried thyme
- 1 T to c. paprika
- 1/2 T to c. pepper ground
- 1/2 T to c. this
Instructions
- Prepare marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and mix well to coat with the marinade. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for extra flavour.
- Preheating the grill: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning. Preheat grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Assemble skewers: Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill chicken: Place skewers on hot grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Serving: Remove skewers from grill and serve hot, accompanied by pita bread, tzatziki, fresh tomatoes and red onions.
Nutrition
Discover the Delights of Grilled Chicken Souvlaki
Grilled chicken souvlaki, a Greek specialty loved for its simplicity and flavor, is a staple of summer meals and outdoor parties. Discover this traditional and tasty recipe that will transport you directly to Greece.
The History of Souvlaki
Souvlaki is an ancient Greek dish, whose origins date back to Antiquity. The Greeks perfected the art of grilling small skewers of meat, a tradition that continues today. Souvlaki has become a symbol of Greek street food and is loved for its quick preparation and delicious taste.
Essential Ingredients
Chicken souvlaki consists mainly of marinated pieces of chicken, threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. Marinating is essential for infusing meat with Mediterranean flavors, with ingredients such as lemon juice, olive oil, oregano and garlic.
Preparing Souvlaki
To prepare a perfect chicken souvlaki, it is crucial to marinate the meat for several hours, or even overnight. Cooking should be quick and at high temperature to obtain pieces of chicken that are juicy and slightly crispy on the outside.
Nutritional Contributions of Souvlaki
Chicken souvlaki is a great source of lean protein, thanks to the chicken. Herbs and lemon add vitamins and antioxidants, while olive oil provides monounsaturated fatty acids beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Tasting and Accompaniment
Chicken souvlaki is eaten hot, often accompanied by pita bread, tzatziki, fresh tomatoes and red onions. It goes perfectly with a Greek salad and a glass of light white wine, like Retsina.
Regional Variants
In Greece, each region can bring a different touch to souvlaki. For example, some versions include grilled vegetables like peppers and zucchini, while others use different yogurt or wine-based marinades.
Conservation Tips
Chicken souvlaki can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for two to three days. For longer storage, it can be frozen and reheated in the oven before serving. It is recommended not to marinate chicken for more than 24 hours to prevent it from becoming too acidic.
Culinary Experience in Greece
Enjoying souvlaki in Greece, especially in a local taverna or by the sea, is an unforgettable culinary experience. Taverns often offer homemade versions of this dish, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and the view of the Greek landscapes while savoring this delicious dish.
Souvlaki and Greek Culture
Souvlaki is much more than just a dish; it represents the spirit of conviviality and shared cuisine in Greece. Often prepared during family gatherings and parties, it is a way to strengthen bonds and celebrate the richness of Greek culture.
Grilled chicken souvlaki, with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, is a true celebration of Greek cuisine. Whether you prepare it at home or enjoy it in a tavern in Greece, this dish will bring a touch of authenticity and tradition to your table.
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