Chicken Souvlaki (Lemon/Oregano Marinated Chicken Skewers)

Chicken breast: The main protein for the skewers, cut into cubes for even cooking.

Olive oil: Used in the marinade to add richness and help the chicken stay moist.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the marinade.

Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor to the marinade.

Oregano: A key herb in Greek cuisine, adding earthy and slightly bitter notes.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the marinade.

Skewers: Used to thread the marinated chicken for grilling.

When marinating the chicken, make sure to massage the marinade into the meat thoroughly. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper, ensuring each cube is well-seasoned. Additionally, if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.

• chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for skewers.

• chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, firm tofu can absorb the marinade well and provide a similar texture when grilled.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can complement the marinade well.

• lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a similar tangy flavor that can mimic the acidity of lemon juice.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can work well in marinades.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic for a more concentrated garlic flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme has a similar earthy flavor that can replace oregano in the marinade.

• dried oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning often contains oregano along with other complementary herbs, making it a good substitute.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add both saltiness and umami flavor to the marinade.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat along with the peppery flavor.

• skewers - Substitute with metal skewers: Metal skewers are reusable and can withstand high grilling temperatures without burning.

• To store leftover chicken souvlaki, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For freezing, place the cooled chicken skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and use within 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on a grill or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• If you prefer, you can also freeze the marinated chicken cubes before cooking. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag, remove excess air, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before threading onto skewers and grilling as directed.
• To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid microwaving the chicken souvlaki for reheating, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Instead, opt for reheating on a grill or in an oven.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken souvlaki on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the skewers with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is warmed through.

• Stovetop Method: Remove the chicken from the skewers and place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or chicken broth to keep the meat moist. Stir occasionally and heat for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken souvlaki on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the chicken rubbery.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the chicken souvlaki back on the grill and heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally. This method helps to retain the original grilled flavor and texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken souvlaki in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper for the marinade.

• Whisk: This will help you mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.

• Cutting board: A surface to cut the chicken breast into cubes.

• Chef's knife: Essential for cutting the chicken breast into cubes.

• Measuring cups: Use these to measure the olive oil and lemon juice accurately.

• Measuring spoons: These will help you measure the garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

• Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto these for grilling.

• Grill: Preheat this to medium-high heat for cooking the chicken skewers.

• Tongs: Use these to turn the skewers occasionally while grilling.

• Plate: Place the cooked chicken skewers on this once they are done grilling.

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano the night before to save time.

Use pre-cut chicken: Purchase pre-cut chicken breast to skip the dicing step.

Marinate in a ziplock bag: Place the chicken cubes and marinade in a ziplock bag for easy mixing and cleanup.

Pre-soak wooden skewers: Soak skewers in water while the chicken marinates to prevent burning on the grill.

Batch grilling: Grill multiple skewers at once to save time.