Souvlaki perfection on the grill: grill time secrets revealed

Chicken souvlaki, a delectable Greek delicacy, tantalizes taste buds with its succulent chicken, aromatic marinade, and smoky grill flavor. Achieving perfectly cooked souvlaki requires precision grilling, and the question of “how long to cook chicken souvlaki on grill” is paramount. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information to grill mouthwatering souvlaki that will impress your family and friends.

Selecting the Right Chicken

The foundation of great souvlaki lies in choosing the right chicken. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even grilling and optimal flavor absorption.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with a symphony of flavors. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices in a large bowl and submerge the chicken. Allow it to marinate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to maximize flavor penetration.

Grilling Techniques

Gas Grill:

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
• Place the chicken on the grill grate and grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Charcoal Grill:

• Light the charcoal and allow it to burn until the coals are white-hot.
• Spread the coals evenly over the grill and place the chicken on the grill grate.
• Grill for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Skewers or Foil:

• Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers or wrap it in foil.
• Place the skewers or foil packets on the grill and cook for the same time as indicated above.

Determining Doneness

To ensure that the chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should register an internal temperature of 165°F.

Resting for Juiciness

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy souvlaki.

Accompaniments for a Complete Meal

Complement your grilled chicken souvlaki with a variety of accompaniments, such as:

• Tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread
• Grilled vegetables
• Greek salad

Tips for Grilling Perfection

• Use a clean grill brush to remove any debris before grilling.
• Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper before marinating.
• If using skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Baste the chicken with the marinade occasionally during grilling to keep it moist.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Variations

• Chicken and Vegetable Souvlaki: Add grilled vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or zucchini, to your skewers for a colorful and flavorful variation.
• Marinated Pork Souvlaki: Marinate pork cubes in the same Greek marinade and grill them for a savory alternative.
• Lamb Souvlaki: For a richer flavor, use lamb cubes instead of chicken.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

• Preheat the grill thoroughly and oil the grill grates.
• Marinate the chicken in olive oil or a non-stick cooking spray.
• Use a non-stick grill mat or foil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Can I grill souvlaki without skewers?

• Yes, you can wrap the marinated chicken in foil and grill it.
• Alternatively, you can use a grill basket to hold the chicken in place.

How can I make my souvlaki extra flavorful?

• Use a flavorful marinade with a variety of herbs and spices.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
• Baste the chicken with the marinade during grilling to enhance the flavor.

How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?

• Marinate the chicken in olive oil or a non-fat yogurt to keep it moist.
• Cook the chicken over medium heat to prevent it from overcooking.
• Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.