Easy Mediterranean Recipe for Dinner: Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

The Mediterranean diet is known for its health benefits, rich flavors, and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for dinner. One of the most popular dishes from this region is Grilled Chicken Souvlaki, a traditional Greek meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and flavorful. In this article, we’ll cover a detailed recipe, cooking methods, benefits of this dish, and answer some common questions about Chicken Souvlaki.

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## **Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Recipe**

 **Ingredients**

To make a traditional Grilled Chicken Souvlaki, you'll need the following ingredients:

- **For the Chicken Marinade**:

  - 4 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

  - 2 tbsp olive oil

  - Juice of 1 large lemon

  - 3 garlic cloves (minced)

  - 2 tbsp dried oregano

  - 1 tsp ground cumin (optional, for an extra Mediterranean flavor)

  - Salt and pepper to taste

  - Wooden or metal skewers

- **For Serving**:

  - Pita bread or flatbread

  - Tzatziki sauce (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and dill)

  - Chopped tomatoes

  - Sliced cucumbers

  - Red onion (thinly sliced)

  - Fresh parsley for garnish

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*Step-by-Step Cooking Method**

**1. Prepare the Marinade**

The key to perfect Grilled Chicken Souvlaki lies in its marinade. This mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors.

- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.

- Add the chicken pieces and toss them well to coat evenly.

- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.

#### **2. Assemble the Skewers**

- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.

- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

#### **3. Preheat the Grill**

- Heat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan over medium-high heat. You can also use a broiler if a grill isn’t available.

- Brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

#### **4. Grill the Chicken**

- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

- The chicken should have a golden, slightly charred exterior and be fully cooked inside, with a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

#### **5. Serve the Souvlaki**

- Warm the pita bread or flatbread by placing it on the grill for a few seconds on each side.

- Serve the grilled chicken skewers alongside the warm pita, tzatziki sauce, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and parsley.

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## **Benefits of Eating Grilled Chicken Souvlaki**

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki isn’t just delicious, it’s also packed with nutritional benefits that make it a fantastic addition to any balanced diet. Here are a few reasons why this Mediterranean dish is so good for you:

### **1. High in Lean Protein**

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also low in fat, especially when grilled without the skin, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

### **2. Rich in Healthy Fats**

The use of olive oil in the marinade introduces monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help reduce bad cholesterol levels. Olive oil also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

### **3. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals**

Lemon juice, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs used in the dish provide an array of vitamins such as vitamin C, A, and K. These vitamins support the immune system, improve skin health, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

### **4. Low in Carbs and Calories**

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is a great low-carb meal option, making it perfect for those following low-carb or keto diets. Pairing the chicken with a light serving of pita bread and fresh vegetables ensures you’re not consuming unnecessary calories or unhealthy carbs.

### **5. Supports Digestion**

Tzatziki, the classic sauce served with Souvlaki, is made from yogurt, which contains probiotics. These probiotics help support digestion and gut health, making your meal not only delicious but also beneficial for your overall digestive system.

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## **FAQs About Grilled Chicken Souvlaki**

### **1. What is Souvlaki?**

Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of meat (often chicken, pork, or lamb) grilled on skewers. It’s typically served with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. It’s one of the most beloved street foods in Greece and can be enjoyed as a complete meal.

### **2. Can I make Chicken Souvlaki without a grill?**

Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken in a hot grill pan or even under the broiler in your oven. Both methods will give you a nice char and replicate the grilled texture and flavor.

### **3. What can I serve with Chicken Souvlaki?**

In addition to pita bread and tzatziki sauce, you can serve Chicken Souvlaki with Greek salad, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a side of hummus. For a healthier option, consider serving it with quinoa or a side of steamed vegetables.

### **4. Can I make Chicken Souvlaki ahead of time?**

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which allows you to prep most of the meal ahead of time. Once cooked, Souvlaki can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated when needed.

### **5. How do I store leftovers?**

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. If you have leftover tzatziki, store it separately and consume it within 2-3 days.

### **6. Is Chicken Souvlaki gluten-free?**

The chicken and tzatziki sauce are naturally gluten-free. However, if you want to make the entire meal gluten-free, you’ll need to substitute the pita bread with gluten-free flatbread.

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## **Conclusion**

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is an easy, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean recipe that can elevate your weeknight dinner routine. It’s packed with nutrients, simple to prepare, and customizable with various accompaniments. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or simply looking for a fresh, delicious dish, Chicken Souvlaki is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in your home!

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