I remember the first time I tasted chicken souvlaki-one of those moments where a dish hits every note perfectly. It was during a summer trip to Greece, tucked away at a cozy seaside taverna. The sun was setting, and the aroma of grilled meat mixed with fresh herbs filled the air. That moment stuck with me, and ever since, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that authentic, fresh flavor at home. Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki recipe comes pretty close, blending juicy marinated chicken with tangy tzatziki and fresh veggies.
Now, you don’t have to fly to Greece to get that experience. With just a few simple ingredients and Jamie’s approach, you can have a vibrant, flavorful souvlaki night in your own kitchen.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s version of chicken souvlaki is a fantastic twist on the classic. His recipe doesn’t just focus on the meat but also incorporates lots of fresh herbs and spices to elevate the flavors. The key to Jamie’s souvlaki is the marinade. It’s simple but incredibly effective. The chicken gets bathed in a mixture of lemon, garlic, and herbs before being skewered and grilled to perfection.
What I love about this recipe is its accessibility. You don’t need any exotic ingredients. Most of what you need, you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. And Jamie’s style is all about keeping it uncomplicated while still delivering big flavors.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for the recipe:
- Chicken breasts (about 4 pieces, boneless and skinless)
- Lemon (zest and juice)
- Garlic (a couple of cloves, minced)
- Olive oil (for the marinade)
- Oregano (fresh or dried, both work great)
- Cumin (adds a nice warmth)
- Paprika (for that smoky depth)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Wooden skewers (soak them for at least 30 minutes in water to prevent burning)
- Fresh pita or flatbreads (to serve with)
- Tzatziki sauce (for the perfect creamy, cool finish)
- Fresh veggies (like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce for garnishing)
A lot of these ingredients, like the olive oil, lemon, and garlic, are staples in Mediterranean cooking. They help build a layer of flavor that makes each bite of chicken unforgettable.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki
Making this chicken souvlaki is pretty straightforward, and I find that the prep time is actually part of the fun. Here’s how you can do it:
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Marinate The Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into cubes. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade and cover. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour, though overnight is best for maximum flavor infusion.
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Prepare The Skewers
While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
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Assemble The Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
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Grill The Chicken
Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
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Serve With Toppings
Warm your pita or flatbreads on the grill for about a minute, just to soften them. Serve the grilled chicken on top of the pita, topped with fresh veggies and a generous drizzle of tzatziki.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
One of the reasons this recipe hits so well is the combination of key ingredients that work together, both in terms of flavor and chemistry. Let’s dive into why they matter:
- Lemon: The acidity of lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken. It breaks down the proteins slightly, making the meat more succulent while also infusing it with a refreshing citrusy flavor.
- Olive Oil: It acts as the perfect medium for carrying the flavors of garlic, herbs, and spices into the chicken. The healthy fats in olive oil also aid in browning the chicken as it grills, creating that golden crust we all crave.
- Garlic: When you mince garlic, you release allicin, which gives it that signature punch. The longer it sits in the marinade, the more its flavor infuses into the chicken.
- Oregano and Cumin: These two herbs aren’t just about flavor. Oregano has antimicrobial properties, and cumin adds a subtle, earthy richness. Together, they help create that authentic Mediterranean taste.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: It may seem like a small step, but the marinade is what gives the chicken its depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, at least marinate for 30 minutes. But ideally, overnight is the way to go for maximum impact.
- High Heat for Grilling: Make sure your grill is nice and hot before you add the chicken. This will help get a good sear, locking in the juices and creating those perfect grill marks.
- Rest the Chicken: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken is juicy and tender.
- Skewer Size: If your chicken pieces are too large, they may not cook through evenly. Try to cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure consistent grilling.
Recipe Variations
You can totally get creative with this recipe. Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra heat boost.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for halloumi cheese or even chunks of eggplant for a satisfying plant-based option.
- Different Sauces: Tzatziki is the classic choice, but you could swap it out for hummus, baba ganoush, or even a simple yogurt sauce with lemon and herbs.
- Herb Twist: Try swapping out oregano for fresh thyme or rosemary if you’re looking to experiment with different herb profiles.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki isn’t just about making a meal. It’s about creating an experience. It’s perfect for a summer evening on the patio, a cozy weeknight dinner, or even a fun gathering with friends. The flavors are bold yet balanced, and the process of putting everything together brings a bit of Mediterranean sunshine into your home.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki?
You’ll need chicken breast, olive oil, garlic, lemon, oregano, paprika, and some salt and pepper for seasoning.
How Long Should I Marinate The Chicken For Jamie Oliver’s Souvlaki?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but for best results, let it marinate for a few hours.
Can I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki On The Grill?
Yes, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Just make sure the grill is medium-high heat and cook each side for about 4-5 minutes.