Chicken Souvlaki Dinner
Two skewers of marinated chicken served with rice, roast potatoes, Greek salad, and tzatziki.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Souvlaki's roots trace back to ancient Greece, where meat skewers were a common street food. References to skewered meats appear in the writings of Homer and other classical authors. Over centuries, variations emerged, incorporating different meats, marinades, and accompaniments, evolving into the modern souvlaki we know today.
Souvlaki is deeply embedded in Greek culture as a popular and accessible street food and casual meal. It represents Greek hospitality and is often enjoyed in social settings.
Street Food Staple
Souvlaki is widely available from street vendors and small shops throughout Greece, making it a convenient and affordable meal option.
Social Gathering Food
It is common to share souvlaki with friends and family, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Variation Across Regions
While the basic components remain similar, regional variations in souvlaki exist, reflecting local preferences and ingredients.
This dish offers a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and herbaceous flavors, complemented by contrasting textures from tender chicken, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and creamy tzatziki.
The marinated chicken is infused with lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and olive oil, imparting a bright, aromatic, and savory taste. Roasting the potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy exterior. The rice provides a neutral base. The Greek salad combines the freshness of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives, seasoned with salt, pepper, oregano, and olive oil, with the tanginess of feta cheese. Tzatziki, a cool and refreshing yogurt-based sauce, adds a creamy and tangy element, balancing the richness of the chicken and potatoes.
Marinate Time
Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
High Heat Cooking
Grilling or broiling the chicken over high heat ensures a slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially for the Greek salad and tzatziki, significantly enhances the overall flavor profile.
Tzatziki Consistency
Strain the grated cucumber for the tzatziki well to remove excess water, preventing a watery sauce.
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